Abyssinian Cats

The Abyssinian is a unique type of tabby cat. They are distinguished from other tabby cats by their coat patterns. Their coats have a particular dark pattern superimposed on their tabby ticked background.

The Abyssinian cat is one of the oldest known breeds but there is some disagreement when it comes to the history of Abyssinian cats. The appearance of the Abyssinian cat is very similar to that of the ancient Egyptian cats seen in paintings and sculptures dating as far back as 3400 years!

They are named Abyssinian cats because they were first imported into Europe from an African country then known as Abyssinia (it is now known as Ethiopia.) Although they were first imported into Europe from Ethiopia they are not believed to have originated there.

The Abyssinian's most defined feature is its richly colored tabby coat which is free from markings on the legs, tail, and the neck. The Abyssinian does have very dramatic facial markings which are made all the more dramatic by the contrast created due to the lack of markings elsewhere.

Abyssinian cats are very curious and very intelligent. They are perhaps the most independent of all house cats. They are very active, friendly, and curious. They are almost always moving unless they are eating or sleeping. They are not the type of cat to sit around too much. They are not "lap cats" usually. They like to continuously walk back and forth through their territory. They can get bored and depressed without daily activity and attention.

An Abyssinian cat is probably right for you if you really enjoy playing with your cat every day but not so much if you are looking for a more peaceful addition to your home.

They are very naturally graceful and beautiful animals. The females tend to be more graceful than the males. They love heights and are not afraid of heights in any way.

Who is the most famous Abyssinian cat? Probably Jake from The Cat From Outer Space. This 1978 Walt Disney film starring Ken Berry and Sandy Duncan was about a cat from outer space that happened to be played by an Abyssinian cat. He is able to communicate with humans through his special collar.

Another famous Abyssinian cat is Zula who was the "first Abyssinian cat." Zula is featured in the photo included with this article! This artwork was completed in 1874.