Abyssinian cat breed: facts, temperament and care

About the Abyssinian

The Abyssinian is a slender, medium-sized shorthair with a ticked coat that glows in warm shades. Each hair is banded with darker and lighter colour, which gives the cat a soft, rippled look without stripes on the body. The head is a modest wedge with large, alert ears and almond eyes in green, gold or hazel.

The name points to Ethiopia, which used to be called Abyssinia, but genetic studies suggest the breed's ancestors came from the coasts of the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia. A cat called Zula was shown at the Crystal Palace in London in 1871 and is often cited as an early example, although some breeders doubt she was a true Abyssinian. The breed reached the United States in the early 1900s and was among the first breeds the CFA registered, in 1906.

Adults usually weigh 8 to 12 pounds. Kittens are born dark and lighten as the ticking develops.

Temperament and living with one

Abyssinians are among the most active of all cats. They climb, leap, open cupboards and investigate everything that moves. They are people-oriented and like to be in the same room as their family, but most prefer to be doing something over being held, so they are not typical lap cats.

The breed is known for intelligence. Many learn to fetch, walk on a harness and work food puzzles. Without enough to do, an Abyssinian will invent its own entertainment, and that usually involves your belongings. The voice is soft and chirpy rather than loud.

Most get along well with children who play gently, and with cats and dogs that can keep up with them. A second cat often helps if the household is empty during the day.

Care: coat, food and play

The coat needs very little work. A weekly stroke with a soft brush or a rubber mitt removes loose hair and keeps the shine. Check the teeth and gums regularly, as dental disease is common in cats, and trim the nails every few weeks.

Exercise matters more than grooming. Provide tall cat trees, shelves or window perches, and several play sessions a day with wand toys. Rotate toys so they stay interesting. Feed measured portions of a complete diet suited to the cat's age. An active Abyssinian burns plenty of energy, but indoor adults can still gain weight.

Health

Abyssinians are generally healthy, but several inherited conditions are documented. Progressive retinal atrophy causes gradual vision loss, and pyruvate kinase deficiency is an inherited form of anaemia. Familial renal amyloidosis can damage the kidneys. DNA tests exist for some of these, and responsible breeders use them. Ask a breeder what the parents have been tested for. Vets also see dental disease and a few other conditions more often in the breed than average. Ask your vet about yearly checks and what suits your individual cat. Sudden changes in appetite, thirst, vision or energy are a reason to call the vet.

Is it right for you?

Choose an Abyssinian if you want a clever, energetic companion and have time to play every day. It suits a home with climbing space and people around. It will not suit someone who wants a quiet cat that sleeps in the lap, or who is away all day. If you like the look but want a calmer coat and temperament, compare the Somali, the Egyptian Mau or the Singapura.