5 Unique Things About the Abyssinian Cat
The Abyssinian cat is one of the smartest and most popular cat breeds in the United States. Known for its unique fur and its country-wide popularity, the Abyssinian cat has been a happy addition to many homes.
Brief History of the Abyssinian Cat
The Abyssinian cat’s origins are a little unclear. The first mention of the breed occurs in 1871. Some British soldiers brought back a cat named Zula after the Abyssinian war and entered it into a cat show. Because of that story, some people claim that this is the cat of the Egyptian pharoahs. However, there are many who believe that the cat’s origin is in Britain, and that it was developed by crossing silver and brown tabbies with cats that had “ticked” coats. The unique ticking pattern in the coat of the Abyssinian reminded people of the camouflaged coat pattern of wild rabbits.
Genetic evidence now suggests that the Abyssinian cat did not originate in Africa or Britain. Instead, it shows that they originated from coastal regions along the Indian Ocean and parts of Southeast Asia.
The Abyssinian cat has been popular since its discovery. Soon after their discovery, they were being bred throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. As a matter of fact, this popularity helped save the breed. The two World Wars almost destroyed it in Europe. However, new Abyssinians were imported to help save the breed, which continues healthily today.
General Features
The Abyssinian cat has a softly angled face with a triangular head and large ears that sit tilted forward. This ear positioning gives the cat an alert, aware look as if he or she is always paying attention to everything. Their large eyes show the alertness and intelligence that is well-known in the breed. The Abyssinian cat’s fur is short. They are found in several color patterns including: Ruddy, Chocolate, Cinnamon, Blue, Lilac and Fawn and the silver version of these colors. The color of the pattern is darker along the spine line, and lighter under the neck, along the underside of the cat, and the insides of the legs.
Five Unique Things about the Abyssinian Cat
- Easy to Groom: They have short, dense coats, so they’re very low-maintenance cats in terms of grooming.
- Unique fur: The coloring of the Abyssinian is truly unique because of their agouti fur which has bands of color along each strand of hair.
- Social: Abyssinians are social cats that enjoy lots of company. It can help to have another cat or pet around the house so that your cat doesn’t get lonely.
- Playful and smart: If you’re looking for a lap cat, look elsewhere! Avoid destructive behavior by keeping this cat busy. Playing with your cat often, giving them lots of toys and enrichment, as well as teaching them new tricks, can keep you and your cat happy.
- Needs room to roam: A big house with lots of places to explore is ideal. They may try to escape your home to expand their territory because they are smart and active.
In Conclusion
The Abyssinian cat is an excellent breed for many people. If you treat them well and keep them busy, these intelligent and beautiful cats can guarantee you a lifetime of entertainment.
At Meowtel, our favorite breed is Rescued. Here are some Abyssinian rescues that you can support. Maybe you’ll even find a new friend!
