| A wild looking cat, the Abyssinian is thought to be | | | | running faucet. This breed does tolerate human |
| one of the oldest breeds in the world. Though | | | | handling, but is probably not the best choice for |
| paintings of them have been found in ancient | | | | children, due to their independent nature. Children |
| Egyptian art, their exact origins are unclear. Some | | | | may enjoy the activity level of the Abyssinian but will |
| believe they came from Ethiopia (formerly called | | | | be disappointed when it does not want to play with |
| Abyssinia) and others believe they originated from | | | | them. |
| areas near the coast of India. Whatever the origins, | | | | Abyssinians are generally healthy; however, they do |
| Abyssinians were imported to England where they | | | | have some genetic health concerns. They can |
| were refined by breeders. | | | | develop patellar luxation, renal amyloidosis (a kidney |
| Abyssinians are average sized cats of a medium build, | | | | disorder), and retinal atrophy. Some Abyssinian may |
| weighing about eight to ten pounds and living | | | | also have sensitive stomachs making them more |
| anywhere from thirteen to twenty years. Described | | | | likely to vomit but this can be controlled through diet. |
| as resembling a Puma or a Cougar, Abyssinians have | | | | They are also prone to gingivitis, but brushing their |
| medium length coats that are dense and have | | | | teeth can help prevent this. |
| markings similar to a tabby cat. The coats can come | | | | There is a website that has great information on |
| in several colors, ruddy (burnt sienna), red, sorrel | | | | Abyssinians and most other breeds of cats. It has |
| (burnt orange), blue (soft blue and apricot), and fawn | | | | details that pertain to a cat breeds health, grooming, |
| (pinkish beige and oatmeal) with even ticking. | | | | living conditions, best food choices and more, the |
| Abyssinians are described as very independent and | | | | website is called: Dog And Cat Facts, and can be |
| intelligent. They are not considered lap cats and hate | | | | found at this url: |
| being confined, but Abyssinians are sociable creatures | | | | By Robert W. Benjamin |
| that will get along well with humans and other pets. | | | | Copyright © 2007 |
| Though they purr when content, Abyssinians are not | | | | You may publish this article in your ezine, newsletter, |
| 'talkative cats' and have a soft purr. Abyssinians are | | | | or on your web site as long as it is reprinted in its |
| high-energy cats and enjoy running and jumping to | | | | entirety and without modification except for |
| high places. They also enjoy playing with water and | | | | formatting needs or grammar corrections. |
| will entertain themselves with nothing more than a | | | | |