Variety Overview
English Name: Abyssinian Cat
Also Known As: Rabbit Cat
Size: Medium
Origin: Abyssinia
Height: Approximately 50cm
Lifespan: 10-15 years
The Abyssinian cat features a slender build with a highly flexible and muscular body. Compared to the Siamese cat, it is slightly more robust, exuding an overall aura of elegance and nobility. This breed has relatively short fur, large pointed ears, and a wedge-shaped head. Its almond-shaped eyes can be amber, light brown, or green, often accentuated by dark rings that look like meticulously applied eyeliner. The coat is typically reddish-brown with black or brown markings interspersed.
Development Origin
The Abyssinian cat is a breed of domestic feline thought to have descended from cats brought from Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia) to Britain in the 19th century, which is how it got its name. The precise history of its development remains unclear and subject to ongoing debate. Some believe it descends from the sacred cats worshipped in ancient Egypt due to its resemblance to the reddish-brown Egyptian god cat. Others argue that its ancestors might be African wildcats, given their similar appearance and traits.
Ideal Audience
Abyssinian cats have a remarkable appetite and require daily litter box cleaning. If you’re busy with work, you may not find the time to clean up after them every day, which could lead to a less hygienic home environment.
Abyssinian cats are highly energetic and enjoy running and playing at night, potentially disrupting your sleep. If you’re sensitive to noise or prefer a quiet sleeping environment, an Aby might not be the best choice for you.
These cats also have a larger appetite, needing more cat food and nutritional supplements. They love climbing and jumping around, which could lead to accidental injuries and increased medical costs. Therefore, owning an Aby requires a certain level of financial stability.
Feeding Guidelines
Perhaps it’s the influence of their ancient wild ancestry, but Abyssinian cats are generally not fussy about their food. Typically, feeding them regular cat food is enough. However, from time to time, it’s beneficial to enhance their meals with canned cat food or fresh ingredients like chicken breast and beef.