Everything you Need to Know About the Abyssinian Cat Breed

Image Credit : PixabayOne of the oldest cat breeds, the Abyssinian is a medium-sized, fine-boned, short-haired, slender cat. The Abyssinians have long legs, totally in proportion with their graceful body. Their tail is long and tapered. The Abyssinian is a very popular cat in the United States. It looks like an African wildcat, however, this domestic feline is extremely friendly, playful, and generally extroverted. It is said that they become depressed if they do not get the affection of their owners constantly. The Abyssinians are known as the 'Clowns of the Cat Kingdom' because of their playful nature and their curious intelligence. They have soft voices, and they are generally very quiet. One of the noticeable features of an Abyssinian is its large pointed ears. The Abyssinians have expressive eyes.

The Abyssinian cat is named after Abyssinia, now known as Ethiopia. It was believed that the cat originated from there, however, later it was found that the Abyssinian originated from somewhere near the Egyptian coast. Great Britain is where the Abyssinian was developed. The cat was imported to America in 1900, however, it was only in the 1930s that the breeding programs started. World War II almost made the Abyssinians in the United States 'extinct', only a dozen survived the war. After the war, the Abyssinians thrived in the US and is now one of America's most popular cat breeds.

Abyssinians are generally healthy cats. They are very energetic and spirited, always active and playful. The Abyssinians are very intelligent. They have an independent mind, hence, they do not enjoy extensive handling. The Abyssinians are shy in nature, they are wary of strangers, however, they are very fond of their owners and always crave their attention.The Abyssinians are prone to tooth decay, so

is essential for their general

. They are also prone gingivitis and amyloidosis (a renal disease that is hereditary).Weekly combing is necessary to remove the dead hair from the fine, short coat of the Abyssinian. It will also help to distribute the skin oils. Dental hygiene is important, brush their teeth regularly. Trim their nails every two weeks and keep the ears clean. Make sure that the litter box is always clean. It is better to keep the Abyssinian always indoor so as to protect it from diseases spread by other cats and to protect it from dogs and other animals.

Abyssinians are quick at learning tricks, they are unusually intelligent. They have a lifespan of fifteen years. The Abyssinians can be trained to go for walks on a leash.An Abyssinian is perfect for families with children. The Abyssinians love children because they are a perfect match for their energy level!