Abyssinian

One of the oldest known cat breeds. Athletic, curious, "the clown of the cat world".

GroupShort Hair
OriginEthiopia (legendary)
Weight3–5 kg
Height20–25 cm
Lifespan13–15 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

The Abyssinian is one of the oldest known cat breeds β€” pictured on Egyptian wall paintings 4,000 years ago, though the modern breed was developed in 19th-century Britain. "Abys" are famously athletic, curious and active β€” they're the breed most likely to be on top of the fridge investigating your business.

Temperament

Active, curious, playful, busy. Abyssinians bond closely with their humans and want to be involved in everything. Generally good with children and other cats; less so with very small dogs.

Exercise needs

Highly active. Tall cat trees, food puzzles, and ideally a feline companion.

Grooming

Short ticked coat. Weekly brush.

Common health issues

Pyruvate kinase deficiency (DNA test). Patellar luxation. Renal amyloidosis. Progressive retinal atrophy.

πŸ‘ Best for

Active owners, multi-cat households, owners who want a "dog-like" cat.

πŸ‘Ž Not best for

Owners wanting a calm lap cat.

Products for Abyssinian owners

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