Abyssinian |
Return to
A~ Z index |
|
Information on the
Abyssinian is proudly bought to you by...
Abyssinian Cat Club of Victoria Inc
Contact Eileen Pittaway at
the Abyssinian Cat Club of Victoria Inc
email:
aby@hotkey.net.au
web:
http://www.hotkey.net.au/~aby
phone: 03 9728 3631 |
|
Description... |
 The overall impression of the ideal Abyssinian
would be a colourful cat with a distinctly short ticked coat, that
is to say each shaft of hair has three bands of colour to it plus
the base colour. It is this ticking that gives the Aby this
rather special "jungle" look. It is medium in size, lithe and
regal in appearance. An Aby generally speaking is a very people
oriented cat; it is affectionate but not a constant lap cat,
rather a cat that likes to be with people. A cat that wants to be
included in all family activities, that has to know what you are
doing - likes to help you get something out of the cupboard, brush
your teeth, make your bed and help you read your newspaper.
Whatever it is an Abyssinian has a very high level of activity and
will want to become totally involved. If this activity would annoy
you then an Aby is not for you. |
|
|
|
History...
|
|
Although many believe the Abyssinian is a direct
descendent of the sacred cat of Egypt the exact origin of the
breed is obscure. Certainly, there is a strong resemblance
between the modern Aby and the cat depicted in ancient Egyptian
bronzes, paintings and the agouti coated cats found buried in the
tombs, with the lithe long body large ears and long tail. It
also bears a striking similarly to the small wild Caracal cats of
North America. The first registration of the breed appeared in
English studbooks in 1896. The earliest identifiable Aby can be
found in the Leiden Museum in Holland. The label reads "domestica
India", indicating the origin to the same area. More recent
studies have proved the coast of Indian Ocean between Singapore
and Ceylon to be the "homeland" of the Abyssinian Tabby colour
pattern - Abyssinians are one of the oldest breeds and they are
most probably the closest to a natural breed of all the purebred
cats in the world. |
|
|
|
Traits...
|
|
They are considered very "dog like" in their ways,
and can easily be taught to retrieve small objects, often bringing
them back for you to throw again. They are fascinated by water. |
|
|
|
Good aspects...
|
 Abys are one of the most intelligent of all cats
and for this reason; they appear more cautious in strange
situations and more wary in their activities than most other
breeds. There is probably no breed more loyal and loving than the
Aby, waiting inside the front door to greet you on your
homecoming. They form a lifetime attachment with one person or
family and tend to fret if the relationship is severed. You will
never be able to complain that no one understands you, your Aby
will know if you have had a hard day at the office, or tonight is
the night to celebrate your promotion! They'll know if you have
suffered a tragedy and will offer silent sympathy and support.
Because of their strong character, Abys are frequently attractive
to men who previously thought they disliked like cats. |
|
|
|
Health...
|
|
The kidney disorder "Renal Amyloidosis:" has been
associated with the Abyssinian cat and is thought to be genetic.
This disorder often results in kidney failure and the cat's
prognosis is often poor. This disease is also seen in many other
breeds of cats but unfortunately; some veterinarians incorrectly
label it as purely an Abyssinian disease. Only a few breeding
lines are likely to produce kittens with Renal Amyloidosis, so
this should not deter the public from buying an otherwise
relatively sound breed. Responsible breeders will do their utmost
to avoid perpetuating health problems, so it is important when
purchasing a kitten to chose a reputable breeder and one with whom
you can discuss all aspects of the Abyssinian including health
matters. Some Abyssinians are also prone to gingivitis. |
|
|
|
Be aware...
|
|
Abys are great hunters so it is advisable to
confine Abys to the inside only - what they don't know they will
not miss. IF given outside access the Aby will demand it as a
right. They get very lonely if left alone for long periods of time
and it is often wise to get two Abys for company. |
|
|
|
Summary...
|
|
Abyssinians never take no for an answer and buyers
find this strong temperament along with their busy activities very
appealing. They are loving and loyal and enjoy their owners
company. |
|
|
|
|
