Abyssinian Cat Care, Personality & Color

Before you purchase an Abyssinian cat or kitten, preferably from a reputable breeder, you need to be aware of Abyssinian cat care, personality, and color options. These cats are unique and make great additions to any family.

Understanding The Abyssinian Cat Breed

The cat is believed to be directly related to the Ancient Egyptian cats. It has large ears, long-legs, and almond-shaped eyes.

However, the most distinctive feature of these cats is their coat. In most cases, it has a reddish-brown base with lighter tones. This is a result of each strand of hair having three or four colors. The colors get lighter as they travel up the hairs.

This gives the Abyssinian cat a distinctive tick look. Of course, it also bears more than a passing resemblance to the African wildcat, a close relative of the Abyssinian.
It should be noted that while the base color is often reddish-brown, there are other variants:

• Fawn
• Blue
• Gray
  
  

Alongside the approved colors, you will find others.

These are generally rarer but not recognized by the breeding associations.
It’s also worth noting the following:

• Abyssinian cats are approximately 10 inches long
• They are not hypoallergenic
  
  

However, they do have short coats and shed very little.

• They need to be brushed once a week
• Abyssinian cats generally live to 15-years-old
• Common Abyssinian Personality Traits
  
  

The Abyssinian cat is very talkative. It is also very sociable and intelligent. In fact, it has many similar traits to a dog and can be trained similarly.

Energetic
Abyssinian cats are energetic, they need to be kept busy and won’t often simply rest on your lap. This makes them hugely entertaining.

Time demanding
However, it also means they are demanding of your time. They don’t like to be left alone, if they are for extended periods they can suffer from loneliness and depression.

Tolerant
The good news is that this cat gets along very well with other cats and dogs. It’s also big enough to be a good playmate for small children.

Adventurous
Their nature is similar to all cats, curious and adventurous. But, they are naturally tempered with caution, helping to keep them safe in most conditions. They retain their playful nature into old age.

Intelligent
These cats are very intelligent and can be easily trained. However, this does mean they are in constant need of stimulation, hence the issues if you leave them alone for extended periods.

Caring For Your Abyssinian Cat
Looking after your Abyssinian cat is similar to looking after any cat. It as basic needs that need to be fulfilled:

Attention
This cat loves attention and will rub against you and even follow you around. However, it is still a cat and independent. That means the attention needs to be on their terms. It is worth noting they get on well with other animals, this can help to ensure they get the attention they need.

Toilet Facilities
If you’re letting your cat outside it should take care if it’s business outside. However, if your cat is an indoor cat you’ll need to provide a litter box and replace the litter regularly. This should not be near where your cat eats.

Sleeping Area
Cats generally sleep anywhere but it is worth creating your Abyssinian cat a sleeping area. This is somewhere they will feel safe and snug, allowing them to rest and recharge their batteries

Food
Abyssinian cats need 41 different nutrients and are generally better off with a high protein diet. It’s advisable to give them wet and dry food. All you have to do is ensure it’s one with plenty of nutrition.

Water
All cats need access to a steady supply of water, the Abyssinian is no different

Grooming
Thanks to their short coat these cats need minimal grooming. Once a week with a brush is usually enough, along with regular claw trimming. You’ll need caw trimmers or you can get a professional to do it for you.

Health Concerns
When caring for an Abyssinian cat you need to be aware of the most common health concerns. This will help you to spot issues and deal with them.
Cats are very good at hiding illness but this cat breed is generally healthy. The most common issues are the following two:

Gingivitis
This is the same as in humans, also known as gum disease. It’s the result of a buildup of plaque on the gum line, allowing infections to enter the soft tissue.
Brushing your cat’s teeth daily can help.

Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency
This is actually a hereditary disease and one that any reputable breeder will check for before supplying you with an Abyssinian cat or kitten. The condition causes a slow decline in the output of an enzyme which is carried by the red blood cells. It provides energy for the body and a deficiency cause anemia and energy loss.

Final Thoughts
Choosing an Abyssinian cat or kitten is an excellent choice and one you’re unlikely to regret. They are great pets for individuals and families. The intelligence of this type of cat also means they are a lot of fun.
The best part is they are surprisingly easy to care for, once you’ve learned the above facts.