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ABYSSINIANS

    One of the oldest and most popular breeds, the Abyssinian is a strikingly beautiful cat known for its unusual ticked coat, distinctive body shape and pretty face.  One can almost imagine it slinking through the underbrush in search of play or prey.  When looking at an Abyssinian it is impossible not to imagine its lineage stretching back through history.  

Of Abyssinians and Ancient Egyptians

    Abys have a long, lean, "foreign" body shape that is both graceful and powerful and is reminiscent of ancient Egyptian paintings. In fact, although the origin of the Abyssinian is obscure, there are some who say its roots are in the ancient Nile Valley. They point to the paintings and sculptures of the ancient Egyptians who revered and memorialized cats that looked very similar to today's Abys. The probable scenario is that a queen called Zula was taken from Abyssinia (now Ethiopia) to Great Britain at the end of the Ethiopian War in the 1860s and was bred with similarly marked cats. For a while these cats were known by a variety of names including British Ticks, Abyssinian, Hare cat, Rabbit cat, and Bunny cat, the latter three having to do with the coats' similarity to that of the wild hare or rabbit. Today, the Aby coat comes in a variety of colors, from steel grey to golden brown to deep apricot, and the distinctive ticking is always apparent.

    The Aby, with its heart-shaped face, almond eyes, and large pointed ears, which are sometimes tufted, is an alert, intelligent cat. It has a quiet voice, even when in heat. Litters are generally smaller than other foreign breeds, averaging about four kittens per litter. The fluffy-coated kittens have dark markings that often disappear as the cat matures.

Dear Aby

    A delightful enigma to those who are fortunate enough to be owned by one (or two), the Abyssinian, despite its somewhat wild, jungle appearance has an affectionate, gentle nature that makes it an ideal companion. Many people who share their lives with an Aby describe their cat as "being instinctively understanding and compassionate." The Aby has been characterized as a loving soul mate whose sometimes clownish antics are amusing and entertaining. From what we've been told by lovers of the breed, whether you're enjoying a quiet afternoon reading poetry in a window seat or romping indoors with the kids, your Aby will be by your side, reading your mood and acting accordingly.

    If you are interested in this breed, check with a local vet for the name of a reputable breeder. Pure breeds, including Abyssinians, are also often available in shelters and from rescue organizations. People who've adopted shelter animals often describe their pets as being eternally grateful and loyal. To save a life and gain a loving and lovable companion, please check our Links Page.

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