01/08/2022
Abyssinian Cats
Breed: Abyssinian
Temperament: loving, active, playful
Maintenance: low
Lifespan: 12 years
Recommended for: cat lovers and families
The Abyssinian is most widely recognised for its distinctive ‘ticked’ coat, though its heritage is not so obvious.
Today, Abyssinians are to be found in 5 Championship colours: Tawny (or Usual): this is the foundation colour, a rich golden brown ticked with black. Cinnamon (or Sorrel): is a lustrous copper ticked with chocolate. Blue: a dilute form of the Tawny with pale underparts and bluegrey ticking. Fawn: a dilute version of the Cinnamon appearing as a dark cream and copper. Silver: another dilute version of the Tawny with a warm base coat lightened to white.
Temperament
The Abyssinian is a loving, affectionate but demanding cat. They seek attention and settle well into home life. Not as aloof as some cat breeds, the Abyssinian can become very attached to its owner. Although they are very active and like to play, they are not a noisy cat. Abyssinians are even tempered and usually get on well with newly introduced pets. They can be fairly mischievous when they are young but will quieten down as they get older. Abyssinians make wonderful companions and are beautiful to look at.
Health and lifespan
An Abyssinian should live around 12 years and there are reportedly no genetic problems in Australian lines. They are prone to gingivitis like many other breeds so teeth care and diet are important. A yearly veterinary check is advisable.
Recommended for
People who do not appreciate a lively, attention-seeking cat, will not enjoy an Abyssinian. They are very good with kids and are best suited to families that can offer lots of affection and attention to the cat. Abyssinians are also great for the active older people as they are great companions.