Abyssinian

The Abyssinian cat breed is usually considered to be the cat that the Ancient Egyptians worshipped, as it looks similar to mummified cats. The Abyssinian most definately comes from the right area, the earliest Abyssinian type cats were imported from Abyssinia (now Ethiopia), although these first specimens may have looked a little different from the attractively ticked and regal looking cat that we now see. However, there is no question that the Abyssinian resembles the African wildcat ancestor of the domestic cat. According to one story, soldiers returning to England in the 1800's from Abyssinia brought cats with them, which is how the name Abyssinian came about.

The modern Abyssinian cat has been carefully developed for colour and pattern type, it has a long body, large ears and eyes and has a smooth resilient coat.

The Abyssinian temperament should be feral in appearance, yet they are extremely gentle and very affectionate. They are excellent companions, quiet and not overly 'talkative'. The Abyssinian is very inquisitive - nothing is too small not to be investigated. They show a healthy interest in their surroundings and love to climb. Their loose skin helps them get in and out of tight places including the hands of humans when they want ! The Abyssinian cat makes a wonderful 'friend' and seems able to read the needs of their favourite person.

 

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