Abyssinian cats look like the sacred cats of ancient Egyptian, which have an appearance similar to the African wildcats (Felis silvestris lybica) from which all domesticate cats are believed to be derived.

They are medium sized cats weighing 6-10 pounds (2.7-4.5 kg). The original color of Abyssinian cats was a reddish brown, however now includes blue, fawn, and chocolate. The kittens are born with darker coats that lighten as they get older. A defining characteristic is their ticked fur, which is the banding of colors along the length of the hair. This gives Abys a shimmering, camouflage look.

These cats are slender, long cats with long legs and a long tapered tail. They have short fur with tufts or hair on the ears.

The Abyssinian is a highly active, athletic cat that loves to climb. They love attention and follow their owners around the house and enjoy taking walks. This not a lap cat however, the Abyssinian prefers to sit next to their owner ready to spring into action at moments notice.

The Abyssinian can entertain himself for hours with toys, however they prefer the company of their owners. They will do tricks and antics to get their owners attention. They are climbers and will get into cupboards and on top of the refrigerator. 

These cats are constantly in motion and if you teach them to play fetch you will never rest. They take things that catch their attention. This is not a cat that enjoys being left alone and may act out if their owner is gone for long periods. 

They tend to be quiet cats, but they purr loudly. They make soft chirrup vocalizations instead of the standard ‘meow’ of most cats. 

These cats love attention and are friendly to other people, children, and animals.

They have a lifespan of 9-13 years. 

Other: The origin of the Abyssinian is a bit of a mystery with some claiming that they were brought back by an English officer from an Abyssinia (Ethiopia) expedition in the 1860s, but genetic evidence suggests that they are from the coasts of the Indian Ocean and parts of south east Asia. 

Abyssinian cats are one of the oldest know breeds.

This breed is recognized by the CFA, ACFA , FIFe, TICA, and CCA.