Abyssinian Cat Traits: What Makes This Breed Stand Out?
Among the most popular cat breeds, the Abyssinian is easy to care for, and a joy to have in your home. They’re affectionate cats and love both people and other animals.
With a strikingly wild appearance, the Abyssinian cat breed resembles an extreme athlete who has just emerged from the jungle. This popular cat is lithe and elongated, boasting a lean, muscular build, a moderately wedge-shaped head, and large, almond-shaped eyes, making the Abyssinian cat a supermodel among felines. Cat lovers admire the Abyssinian for its large ears, small oval feet, and long, slender tail, all covered in a fine, short, and glossy coat. Known as an active cat, the Abyssinian cat is perfect for those seeking a playful and energetic companion.
Quick facts
Life Span |
How long do Abyssinian Cats live? 12 - 15 years. |
Average Weight |
2.7kg - 4.5kg |
Colours |
Originally seen only in a sandy wild cat reddish brown, the Abyssinian cat breed now comes in a variety of colors. |
Essential Information
- Abyssinian cat thrives with an experienced owner.
- Requires extensive enrichment.
- Enjoys Interactive Cat Toys.
- Loves simulated hunting games - Flying Bird Cat Toy.
- Highly active and curious.
- Independent yet friendly.
- Moderately talkative.
- Medium sized cat breed.
- Needs grooming once a week.
- Benefits from a mix of indoor and outdoor space.
- Excellent family cat.
- Can be left alone for a few hours regularly.
- Ideal for a relaxed home environment.
Abyssinian Breed Health
Abyssinian cats may experience the following health issues:
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency: a condition causing anemia due to the death of red blood cells.
- Progressive retinal atrophy: an inherited disorder leading to the degeneration of part of the eye, potentially resulting in blindness.
- Amyloidosis: a condition where proteins are deposited in organs and tissues, potentially leading to organ failure.
Testing is available for:
- DNA testing for pyruvate kinase deficiency and progressive retinal atrophy, which determines whether a cat has the potential to be affected by these conditions.
Personality of the Abyssinian Cat.
Although not typically a lap cat, as the Abyssinian cat breed is not one to curl up and relax often, it is a highly friendly, curious, and inquisitive cat. This popular and active cat breed takes great delight in assisting or overseeing any activity you're engaged in. Owners should genuinely enjoy and be entertained by a cat eager to participate in household tasks, and be prepared to engage in lengthy play sessions to keep the Abyssinian cat content and fulfilled.
Described as intensely loyal and playful, this is a cat breed that requires owners who are frequently at home an Abyssinian cat should not be left to entertain itself without supervision!
Breed Rating
Family Friendly |
3/5 |
Playfulness |
4/5 |
Intelligence |
5/5 |
Likes Other Pets |
5/5 |
Grooming Needs |
2/5 |
Shedding |
3/5 |
History and Origins
Although named after the country now known as Egypt, the Abyssinian cat breed did not originate from Egypt. Studies by geneticists indicate that the most likely origins for this beloved Cat Breed are the coast of the Indian Ocean and parts of Southeast Asia. They acquired the name due to the first of these cats imported to the UK being brought from Egypt, and they do closely resemble cats depicted in ancient Egyptian paintings and sculptures. The Abyssinian cats were first exhibited in the UK in 1871 at Crystal Palace, and it appears that they were brought back to the UK following the departure of British troops from Abyssinia in 1868, possibly during or after the World War.
Outdoors or Indoors
The Abyssinian cat would undoubtedly enjoy being an outdoor cat, given its friendly, active, curious, and strikingly beautiful nature. However, allowing them outdoor access poses risks, such as theft, and they are likely to become unpopular with neighbors. An outdoor Abyssinian may casually enter other people’s homes, supervise their activities, and help themselves to food and items that catch their interest. For these reasons, Abyssinians are often better suited as mostly Indoor Cats with access to secure cat runs or 'catios,' or ideally, a fully secure, cat-fenced garden.
If kept indoors only, extensive cat trees and Puzzle Feeders should be provided, and interior décor should be considered carefully. This is a cat that loves to be up high and will enjoy knocking things down from shelves and other surfaces. Therefore, accommodating the Abyssinian cat will require adjusting your home and lifestyle accordingly.
Enrichment and Special Requirements
The Abyssinian cat needs ample space for exercise and play. Given their fondness for climbing and elevated spaces, providing extensive cat trees or an environment that allows them to satisfy this behavior is essential. They are highly inquisitive and trainable using positive reinforcement methods. It is recommended to engage them in training and enrichment games, encouraging them to work for some of their food by using a Puzzle Feeder to keep their minds and bodies active.
Nutrition and Feeding
Each cat is unique, with its own specific preferences and dietary needs. However, as carnivores, every cat requires 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients varies depending on age, lifestyle, and overall health. Therefore, it's understandable that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different nutrient balance in their diet compared to a less active senior cat. It's also important to consider feeding the right quantity of food to maintain an 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines, as well as catering to individual preferences regarding wet or dry food recipes. Find out more about Cat Nutrition with our article.
Grooming Abyssinian
With its clean and short coat, the Abyssinian requires minimal Grooming. A weekly check and polish with a bristle brush are usually sufficient. Notably, a greasy or scurfy coat can be an early sign of illness, making regular grooming essential for early detection.
As with all cats, Regular Vaccination and parasite control are recommended. It's crucial to discuss these matters with your vet.
Family Life Compatibility
If you enjoy a cat involved in everything you do, Abyssinians are bundles of fun! They aren't particularly loud, and although they are chatty, it's more of a quiet chirrup than a jarring yowl. However, living with an Abyssinian can be quite demanding. Think of them as cat shaped dogs, and you'll have a better idea of the attention they require. They are best suited to homes without children, or with children old enough to respect a cat's space and be relied upon to keep the Cat Indoors unless there is a secure outdoor space available.
FAQ
Where can i find Abyssinian Cat for sale?
You can find Abyssinian cats for sale on Petfinder.
What does Abyssinian mean?
Abyssinian refers to a breed of domestic cat believed to have originated in the region historically known as Abyssinia, now Ethiopia. The name was chosen because the breed was first exhibited in the late 19th century in England, where it was believed that the original cats were brought from Abyssinia. However, modern genetic studies suggest that the breed may have actually originated in regions of Southeast Asia or along the coast of the Indian Ocean.
What are the Abyssinian Cat characteristics?
Abyssinian cats are active, curious, and social with a short, ticked coat, large expressive eyes, and an athletic build.
Do Abyssinian cats have a reputation for being aggressive?
Abyssinian cats are not known for being aggressive. They are typically playful, social, and affectionate. While they may become frustrated if bored or stressed, aggression is uncommon. With proper stimulation and care, Abyssinians are usually friendly and curious.
Is there a black Abyssinian cat?
Abyssinian cats do not come in solid black. They typically have a ticked coat pattern in colors like ruddy, red, blue, and fawn.
How active and high energy is an Abyssinian cat?
Abyssinian cats are known for their high energy, agility, and playful nature. They are often described as one of the most active cat breeds, constantly on the move and exploring their surroundings. These cats enjoy climbing, jumping, and interactive play, making them perfect companions for owners who can keep up with their energetic behavior. Abyssinians are also highly intelligent and curious, requiring mental stimulation alongside physical activity to stay happy and healthy. A great way to engage them is by using a Puzzle Feeder to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated during mealtime. If you're looking for a lively and engaging feline, the Abyssinian is a great choice.
What is the Abyssinian cat price UK?
In the UK, the price of an Abyssinian cat typically ranges from £500 to £1,200 . The exact price can vary based on factors such as the cat's pedigree, breeder reputation, and whether the cat is intended for pet or show purposes.
What does the Abyssinian cat rescue UK do?
The Abyssinian Cat Club (UK) Rescue rescues and rehomes Abyssinian cats, ensuring they receive necessary medical care and are placed in loving homes.
Is the Abyssinian cat a good indoor cat?
Abyssinian cats can make excellent indoor pets, but they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to thrive. Their high energy levels and natural curiosity mean they need a variety of toys, climbing structures, and interactive activities to stay engaged. Without enough stimulation, they may become bored or destructive. Indoor environments can be suitable for Abyssinians as long as their need for exploration and activity is met. Owners can also enrich their indoor space by using tools like cat trees, Window Beds, and Cat Slow Feeding Mats to keep these intelligent cats happy and entertained.
What is the Abyssinian cat temperament?
Abyssinian cats are active, playful, curious, intelligent, and social. They are affectionate, enjoy human companionship, and often follow their owners around.