The Abyssinian is one of the oldest domestic felines in the world.

The Abyssinian is an exceptionally intelligent and independent cat, yet not quite as wild as it may look. As companions they are gentle, bold, brave, loyal, and always extremely active. They are freedom-loving cats so they tend to despise close confinement and are not lap cats. Despite this, they are very people-oriented and social, and they get along well with both humans and other animals. They make wonderful playmates, but are probably not a pet for people who prefer a more sedate feline, as they are known to enjoy jumping to high places and running out of any open doorway. Abyssinians are known to have a great love of water, and water faucets may become a great way for them to pass the time. Despite their playfulness, they are known to be one of the most intelligent breeds, using their paws much like a human would use hands. Active and healthy cats, Abyssinians usually live well into their teens and some into their twenties. Very affectionate, they have a loud purr but a soft meow. If a longhair cat is preferred, the Somali is known to be the longhair version of the Abyssinian, having many of the same characteristics. You may be missing out, however, as today this tiny Puma is the most popular short hair breed.

The Abyssinian is a muscular cat of medium size and length; it strongly resembles a small Puma because of its dense, ticked fur, and strikingly similar markings. Its average weight is eight to 10 pounds, and it has a ticked, tabby coat that is medium in length and dense, yet fine and soft in texture. Its appearance closely resembles Egyptian paintings and sculptures of lithe, which are muscular cats with long, graceful necks and beautiful, almond-shaped eyes. The head is heart-shaped, usually sporting the characteristic "M" coat marking on the forehead, and the ears are large, erect, slightly pointed and sometimes tufted. The eyes are large and almond-shaped, colored bright gold, amber or green, and rimmed with a thin brown or black band. The famous coat is mainly colored ruddy, red, blue, fawn, and sometimes silver.

No one knows for certain where the first Abyssinian originated, but recent genetic studies show that the most likely origin of this ancient breed is somewhere along the coast of the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia. One theory holds that they were brought west along early trade routes from India through Egypt and Abyssinia, and that this is where the breed obtained its name. The first Abyssinian exhibited in a cat show was in the late 1800's in England. Their first historical mention in literature was in 1874, and they were first imported to North America in the early part of the twentieth century.

Though the Abyssinian is a remarkably healthy and active, long-lived breed, a few genetically potential health problems may occur in the following particular areas: patellar luxation; renal amyloidosis (a kidney disorder), and retinal atrophy (a rare eye condition that can lead to impaired vision). Some Abyssinian may also have sensitive stomachs, a high quality diet may help to prevent vomiting. They are also prone to gingivitis, but brushing their teeth at an early age can help to prevent this. Otherwise, regular veterinarian checkups and general maintenance are all that this breed needs to maintain a long, healthy life.

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