Abyssinian

The Abyssinian looks like it stepped off the wall of an Egyptian tomb, and that resemblance helped build its legend. It is one of the oldest breeds in the fancy. Its true origins likely lie around the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia, but it took its name from Abyssinia, modern Ethiopia, where early show cats were said to come from.

The signature is the coat. Each hair is banded with several colors, a pattern called ticking, which gives the warm ruddy coat a glowing, wild-rabbit shimmer that shifts as the cat moves. The lithe body, large ears, and almond eyes complete the look of a miniature cougar.

Abyssinians are pure motion. They are athletic, curious, and busy, forever climbing to the highest shelf, opening cupboards, and supervising every task in the house. Owners call them the clowns of the cat world, and a bored Aby will invent its own entertainment.

For all that energy they are deeply people-oriented, less of a lap cat and more of a constant companion that wants to be in the room and in the action. CFA recognized the breed in 1906, and it has been a beloved fixture of the fancy ever since.

An Abyssinian needs a job, or it will appoint itself one. It is among the most active and clever of breeds, forever climbing, exploring, and helping with whatever you are doing, and it does best with tall perches, puzzle toys, and ideally a feline companion to match its energy.

The short coat is wash-and-wear, needing only an occasional brush, but the breed carries a few watch-points. Responsible breeders test for a blood disorder called PK deficiency, for an inherited eye condition, and for dental disease, all of which can run in the line. A fit, lean Aby tends to stay sprightly into old age.