Abyssinian: The Energetic and Affectionate Cat
The Abyssinian is a very ancient cat breed, renowned for its elegance and dynamism. This tireless cat is constantly on the move but does so without making much noise or fuss. The Abyssinian is very attached to its owner, to whom it is completely devoted. It craves affection and attention, as shown by its frequent meows and rubbing against legs.
- Origins and History
- Physical Characteristics
- Temperament and Behavior
- Care and Hygiene
- Nutrition
- The Abyssinian at a Glance
Origins and History
The Abyssinian is one of the oldest cat breeds. However, its origin is not entirely clear. Some claim that this cat comes from Asia, although the agouti coat (with light and dark hairs) is strangely absent from this region. Another, perhaps more credible, story suggests that the Abyssinian is a descendant of the sacred cats of ancient Egypt during the time of the Pharaohs. It is even believed that Ramses II owned one. This cat is depicted on numerous Egyptian tombs.
In 1868, Marshal Sir Robert Napier brought the first Abyssinian cat to Europe. This cat was named Zula. It was exhibited as early as 1871 at the Crystal Palace in London. Breeders then began to work on this cat breed, crossing it with the British Shorthair among others. Also known as the Bunny Cat due to its large ears, the Abyssinian was recognized as a breed in 1886 in Great Britain. It was exported across the Atlantic to the United States in the early 19th century. In France, it first appeared in 1926 before being recognized in 1927.
Physical Characteristics
- Body: The Abyssinian has a medium-sized, but particularly muscular build. It is slender, agile, and the males are slightly larger than the females.
- Coat: The Abyssinian has a short, dense, and smooth coat. A very pleasant fur that resembles that of rabbits. Its dorsal band is slightly thicker.
- Color: Only a ticked cat can qualify as an Abyssinian. Therefore, it is agouti. Its coat can come in 28 different colors, including blue, ruddy, sorrel, fawn, or red.
- Head: The head has soft curves and is triangular. The nose is fairly short, and the face is proportionate to the rest of the body.
- Eyes: Large, almond-shaped, with colors ranging from yellow to hazel, sometimes with green.
Temperament and Behavior
The Abyssinian cat is characterized by its lively, alert, playful, and dynamic nature. Its owner must constantly or almost constantly keep it occupied, as the Abyssinian loves their presence. It needs to be entertained, either through petting, which it loves, or by playing with it. It considers its playmates as equals. Sometimes rambunctious, the best way to tame it is through play.
Despite this, it sometimes enjoys its independence. Additionally, the Abyssinian cat gets along very well with dogs. However, it's best not to place it near rodents or birds, as it will show no mercy.
Living Conditions
The Abyssinian needs space to thrive and to constantly exert its energy. Indeed, it is not an inactive cat by any means. It is constantly moving, loves to jump, run, and play. Therefore, a home with a garden is ideal. Nevertheless, it can also adapt to apartment living, provided that the space is large enough to meet its needs.
Care and Hygiene
Caring for the Abyssinian is not particularly difficult but must be regular. Weekly brushing is sufficient to keep its coat in good condition. However, during shedding periods, daily brushing is recommended to remove as many dead hairs as possible. It is also important to regularly clean its eyes, ears, and trim its claws. The Abyssinian is generally robust, but it is prone to certain genetic diseases like amyloidosis and progressive retinal atrophy.
The Abyssinian has a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years.
Nutrition
Very active, the Abyssinian requires a rich, balanced diet, supplemented with vitamins and minerals. Its diet will be more substantial than that of a cat of equivalent size. Be careful: overfeeding it would lead to obesity. It should always have access to fresh, clean water that is regularly replenished.
Nutritional Needs
The Abyssinian has specific nutritional needs to maintain optimal health:
- High-quality proteins: Essential for muscle development and overall health. Opt for protein sources like chicken, fish, or lamb.
- Healthy fats: Provide energy and contribute to healthy skin and a shiny coat. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are particularly beneficial.
- Fibers: Aid digestion and maintain good intestinal health. Vegetables and whole grains are good sources of fiber.
- Vitamins and minerals: A balanced diet should include vitamins and minerals to support the immune system and the overall health of the cat.
It is important to choose a diet suited to its age, weight, and activity level. Always consult a veterinarian for personalized advice.
Treat Recommendations
To complement your Abyssinian's diet, Marly & Dan offers a range of premium treats tailored to the needs of your feline companion. Here are some of the most recommended options:
- Anti-Hairball Treats: Enriched with natural fibers and enzymes, they facilitate the passage of ingested hair through the digestive system, thus reducing vomiting and discomfort.
- Skin & Coat Treats with 100% Salmon: Provide high-quality protein, supporting healthy skin and a shiny coat.
- Salmon Oil: Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6, it is a premium supplement that contributes to skin health and coat shine in cats.
Marly & Dan treats are made in France with natural and high-quality ingredients, ensuring healthy and tasty snacks for your Abyssinian. Offer it the best by choosing Marly & Dan, a brand dedicated to excellence in pet nutrition.
Price and Budget
The purchase price of an Abyssinian ranges between 600€ and 1500€. The annual maintenance cost varies between 300€ and 500€.
The Abyssinian at a Glance
FAQ
The Abyssinian loves cuddles but also enjoys playtime. It is affectionate and demands a lot of attention from its owner.
Yes, the Abyssinian sheds, especially during shedding seasons. Regular brushing will help control shedding and keep its coat healthy.
Yes, the Abyssinian can live in an apartment as long as there is enough space for it to be active. It loves to run and play, so a stimulating environment is essential.
The Abyssinian gets along well with dogs, but it's best not to place it near rodents or birds, which it may see as prey.