Abyssinian Cat: Breed Origin, Appearance Standards, Character Traits, Rules Of Care And Feeding, Kitten Selection, Photo

2024 Author: Bailey Albertson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-17 22:26

"Lapis lazuli cat of the horizon": features of the Abyssinian breed

Abyssinians are one of the most ancient types of cats. Representatives of the Abyssinian breed are distinguished by exotic external data and interesting character traits. These lively, curious and friendly animals are real aristocrats of the feline world. There are certain nuances of caring for them.

Content

• 1 History of the origin of the Abyssinian breed

• 2 External features

  2.1 Photo gallery: colors of Abyssinian cats

• 3 The nature of the Abyssinians
• 4 Abyssinian cat health

• 5 Choosing an Abyssinian kitten

  5.1 Video: breeder about the standard of the Abyssinian breed

• 6 Caring for an Abyssinian cat

  6.1 Video: features of caring for Abyssinian cats

• 7 Breeding cats

  7.1 Castration and sterilization

• 8 Owner reviews about the breed

History of the origin of the Abyssinian breed

There are different opinions about the place of origin of the Abyssinian breed. Many people notice their striking physical resemblance to the cats depicted in the frescoes of ancient Egyptian tombs. The Abyssinians are also similar to the goddess Bastet, who was revered in Ancient Egypt. In the Book of the Dead, in the description of animal hair colors, there are phrases "sunny cat", "lapis lazuli cat of the horizon", which is very similar to the color of this breed.

Another version says that the roots of the Abyssinians go back to Ethiopia, which used to be called Abyssinia. It is from here that the breed got its name. Recent studies of the genetic data of the Abyssinians suggest that these cats may have lived in Southeast Asia.

Many people notice the similarity of the Abyssinians with the depicted ancient Egyptian cats

It is believed that a British soldier brought this cat to England, where the breed was improved. In 1871, the Abyssinian was officially presented for the first time at an exhibition in the Crystal Palace. minmar_13: 28.02.2018, 16:01

How did the appearance change

"> Back then, this breed still had pronounced tabby stripes on its forelimbs. Later, breeders bred this, as they believed, a shortcoming in cats. And also earlier they had pronounced tassels on the ears, which made them more exotic.

During World War II, most of the Abyssinian cats were sent from England and other European countries to the United States, which largely helped to preserve the existence of this breed. Then the peculiarities of the breed began to form: the Americans diligently gave a refined appearance to the Abyssinians.

However, in the 70s of the XX century, a new threat appears: about half of Abyssinians in England die from leukemia. But the great efforts of the breeders helped to save the breed.

Over time, cats have become more miniature and graceful. New colors appeared: in 1963 the color “sorrel” was added to the original “wild” color, in 1984 - the blue color, and in 1995 the color “fawn” appeared as an experimental one, introduced as a full-fledged color in 2000.

External features

Abyssinian cats are quite miniature, their average weight is from 4.5 to 8 kg.. The breed standard is the same, but breeders note that there is a tendency towards differences between American and European types of Abyssinians:

• American Abyssinians are larger and their coat is shorter. The setting of the eyes is closer;

  

  The skeleton of the American type Abyssinian is weighted, the eyes are set close

• European - harmoniously built, proportional, have a characteristic "smile" and a more intense color.

  

  In the European type of Abyssinians, the head has a narrower shape, the eyes and ears are set wide

Felinological associations are engaged in the development of breed standards, rules for their assessment and establish the timing and procedure for cat shows. In Russia, the following associations most often hold exhibitions:

• CFA,
• TICA,
• FIFe,
• WCF.

The breed standard in different felinological associations is spelled out with slight differences, which arise mainly due to the description of the same property in different words. There are obvious similarities in several Abyssinian standards:

• the body is muscular and flexible, of medium length: in cats - about 32 cm, and in cats - 28 cm.
• the neck is long and graceful.
• the tail tapers from the base to its tip.
• the front and hind legs are long, slender and slender.
• the head is in the shape of a blade with large, wide ears.
• the eyes are almond-shaped with a pronounced black outline. Most often, green or amber eyes.
• the chin is strong.
• nose of medium length.

• short hair, close to the body, shiny and smooth. It is noteworthy that each hair is dyed in 2-3 different colors. This phenomenon is called ticking. Thanks to him, the cat's fur seems to shimmer in the light.

  

  The eyes of the Abyssinian are almond-shaped with a mandatory black outline

The main differences in the standard for different associations include:

• TICA stipulates that males are larger than females and notes that the type of Abyssinians is somewhat unusual; FIFe and WCF do not have such a section at all in the standard.
• CFA, TICA: Abyssinians value not size, but proportion and general harmony. FIFe and WCF strictly negotiate the size;
• TICA: Length of coat falls from back to head and limbs. Too smooth wool is not welcome, as well as too fluffy;
• a round head or a long narrow head, like the Siamese, in CFA - a disadvantage, in FIFe - a disqualifying sign. TICA and WCF are generally silent about this;
• for FIFe, WCF, brushes on the ears are desirable;
• CFA prefers a wide forehead.

Currently, there are officially 4 colors of Abyssinian cats:

• wild (ruddy);
• red, or sorrel (red) - copper-red with chocolate brown;
• blue (blue);
• beige (fawn) - warm pink with beige.

In different associations there are some differences in the requirements of the color standard:

• FIFe: darker hair ends are preferred. The coat is darker along the spine. White is allowed only above the lips, at the nose and from the chin to the neck, but not going over the chest;
• TICA disqualifies for reverse ticking (the tip of the hair is light, not dark). The back can be colored darker. White around the nostrils, on the chin and at the top of the neck;
• WCF: triple ticking is preferred. The line along the spine (back strap) … is intensely colored in the ticking color. White should not go beyond the chin;
• CFA: Stronger shades are encouraged, but ticking intensity should not be sacrificed for color saturation TICA: Stronger shades are preferred, specifies that the dark color between the toes extends slightly beyond the sole. The back can be dyed darker - this is permissible if the coat on it is completely ticked. White around the nostrils, on the chin and at the top of the neck.

Photo gallery: colors of Abyssinian cats

Wild color - the original coat color of Abyssinian cats

Sorel color combines copper-red with chocolate-brown

Light blue coat color alternates with deeper blue-gray areas

Fawn Abyssinians have a warm pink coat with a beige tint

The nature of the Abyssinians

Abyssinians can be called real intellectuals among cats. They are very well-mannered and restrained, they will not allow themselves too much. They do not even raise their voice, so they will not bother with loud and long shouts. Their voice is melodic and soft, pleasant.

Abyssinian cats are very friendly. This manifests itself both in relations with the owners and with other domestic animals. They get along well with other cats as well as dogs. Cats will get along with children too.

Abyssinians are incredibly energetic

It should be noted that these animals are very temperamental - their reaction to any external factors is very high, they emotionally experience any events, games. Abyssinians need constant attention, they do not tolerate loneliness. It is worth noting that cats of this breed are fearful and vulnerable, loud sound, sudden movement can cause fear in the pet.

Another characteristic feature of the Abyssinians is curiosity. With great interest they explore new places, toys, things that have appeared in the house. Abyssinians often choose high places for themselves to observe everything that happens from there. But the lounger for sleeping is best placed on the floor. But some owners prefer to share their sleeping place with their beloved pet.

Abyssinian cats are very curious

Abyssinians get used to their owners, but still retain the features of independence and isolation, characteristic of all cat breeds. They value care and attention very much, they are very affectionate, they love neatness. Another interesting feature of this breed is the love of water. Pets are happy to trample near waterways and will not refuse to take a bath.

Most Abyssinians are not afraid of water, unlike other cat breeds

Abyssinian cat health

With proper care and attention, Abyssinians can live up to 20 years. The Abyssinian breed has inherent genetic diseases:

• atrophic retinopathy of the retina. With this disease, the degeneration of photoreceptors in the retina of the eye begins, which leads to loss of vision. Unfortunately, at the moment this disease will not respond to treatment. Cats become completely blind 5-7 years after the detection of the disease;
• polycystic kidney disease (blue cats are more susceptible, including other breeds), as a result of which renal failure may develop;
• blood disease associated with a violation of the integrity of red blood cells.

These diseases are easy to diagnose with genetic tests. Almost all nurseries perform a similar procedure and remove animals with these diseases from breeding.

Regular veterinary examinations will help identify possible ailments in the early stages.

In addition to genetic diseases, Abyssinians can develop gingivitis. The symptoms of this condition are redness of the gums and bad breath. In order to prevent its occurrence, you need to carefully monitor the pet's diet - gingivitis develops when fed with raw food and canned food. You should brush your teeth regularly and have a routine veterinarian check-up once a year.

Abyssinian cats are prone to leukemia. To prevent this serious illness, the pet is given a mandatory vaccination. Vaccination is carried out at the age of 9-11 weeks and against other most dangerous diseases:

• calcivirosis - an acute viral disease, accompanied by a sharp rise in temperature and impaired respiratory function;
• infectious rhinotracheitis - a disease that is caused by herpes viruses, as well as calciviruses and reoviruses.;
• panleukopenia (feline distemper) is a viral disease. It can be spread through food and water, and can be transmitted to kittens from the mother. With panleukopenia, all organs are affected. The death rate from feline distemper is 90%;
• rabies is an acute, fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system.

Vaccination schedule for an Abyssinian kitten:

1. At the age of 7-8 weeks - vaccination against panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis and calicivirus;
2. At the age of 12-13 weeks - revaccination against panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis and calicivirus + vaccination against rabies;
3. A year later - revaccination against the same diseases;
4. Further - regular vaccination once a year.

Abyssinians may develop stomach problems, mainly associated with overeating. But they do not appear very often - due to their mobility, Abyssinians are rarely overweight. Also, cats of this breed have allergies in the form of dermatitis. It is cured with ointments prescribed by a veterinarian and a specially prescribed diet.

Choosing an Abyssinian kitten

If you have a desire to get an Abyssinian, then it is best to contact the nursery or breeders. Otherwise, there is a great risk of deception. The Abyssinian breed is quite rare and its breeding requires care. Conscientious breeders monitor including and excluding cats with genetic diseases from breeding. It is difficult for a layman to distinguish a purebred Abessin from a “fake”, but there are still some features that may catch the eye:

• there should be no stripes on the front paws of the cat;
• white spots should be visible near the chin, there should also be a border of the eyelids;
• there should be no light undercoat;
• ticking should be visible as early as 3 months of age.

The average price of an Abyssinian for castration is 25-30 thousand rubles, and for breeding it will be 3-4 times higher. There are offers with rather low prices, be careful. Too low a price should alert you. When buying a kitten, you must be provided with a veterinary passport. You may also be shown information about his pedigree or, if it is absent, a metric or kitten card.

It is better to take the kitten home no earlier than three months of age

For the first month of their life, kittens feed on the milk of their mother-cat, so at this time they cannot be separated. In the next month, you can give your baby other foods gradually and in small portions. It is better to take the kitten home no earlier than three months after its birth, because at this age they are already:

• feed on their own;
• accustomed to the tray;
• received the necessary vaccinations and underwent antihelminthic therapy - usually these procedures are done at 9-11 weeks;
• learned the necessary skills from a mother cat, quite mature.

If you are thinking about who is better to have, a female or a male, consider some distinctive features:

• Abyssinian is a graceful and playful female, loves to be in the spotlight;
• Abyssinian - loves to play and relax in the same territory.

Video: breeder about the standard of the Abyssinian breed

Abyssinian cat care

It is not difficult to look after the Abyssinians. Since this breed has short hair, frequent brushing is not required, once a week will be sufficient. A fine-toothed metal comb works well for this.

But the cleanliness of the ears requires more attention. You should wipe them at least once a week with a napkin dipped in warm water. This procedure will help avoid infection.

Trim your pet's nails with clippers when in good position, preferably every 2 weeks. This is not difficult.

Bathing Abyssinians is easy, they can easily tolerate water procedures. But it is recommended to do this more often than once every three months.

Due to their large size, Abyssinian ears require attention and care.

Abyssinians should brush their teeth once every 2 weeks. A children's toothbrush and a special paste for animals are suitable for the procedure. It is convenient to sit the pet on your lap, open its mouth with one hand, and brush the teeth with vertical movements from the gums to the edge of the teeth with the other.

Abyssinians are very clean, so keeping the toilet in good condition is essential for them to live comfortably at home. Usually kittens already in the cattery are trained to the litter box and know their place well. Any filler for the tray will do. Here you should rely on your preferences and the reaction of your pet.

As for the feeding of the Abyssinians, in this matter they are quite finicky. Therefore, it is important to choose the food that your pet will accept. When taking a kitten from breeders, you need to ask what he ate and for about a month continue to feed him with the same food. If you need to switch to another feed, it should take place gradually. Kittens should be fed 3 times a day in small portions. Both dry and wet food are suitable, preferably premium:

• Hills;
• Pro Plan;
• Royal Canin, etc.

Adult pets should be switched to food for adult cats and the amount of food intake should be reduced to 2 times a day. If cats eat dry food, they must have constant access to drinking clean water. Don't forget about the treats to pamper your pet too.

Video: features of caring for Abyssinian cats

Breeding cats

You need to give 2-3 days for the partners to get used to each other

Breeding Abyssinians is a responsible process. If you decide on this, then keep in mind that you may encounter some problems. Many breeders do not sell their offspring for further reproduction, since they comply with the contract concluded for breeding producers purchased from other nurseries.

Puberty in Abyssinian cats begins fairly early. Already at the age of four months, the female's first estrus may begin. According to international standards, mating should be started no earlier than after 2-3 heat. Sexual maturity of males occurs at the age of eight months to ten months.

Animal mating should be carried out on the partner's territory. So Abyssinian cats are more willing to make contact. It is best to leave the cat and cat together for a couple of days. They have to get used to each other. The experience of partners should also be taken into account: the larger it is, the easier the knitting will take place. It is better to reduce a beginner already with an untied individual.

Abyssinians have a very developed maternal instinct.

The duration of the female's pregnancy is about 65 days. During this period, you need to pay special attention to her - give her care and affection, not leave her alone for a long time. The Abyssinian cat is a very good mother who, without outside help, take full care of her offspring. The maximum number of kittens born from one mating reaches six.

It is worth noting the uneven ability of females to reproduce. Unfortunately, cases of infertility are also common. Since the control of the mating process of Abyssinians requires special efforts, the cost of this breed has a high price.

Kittens born, in the first days of life, outwardly very much resemble little lion cubs. They are energetic and curious. Thinking about weaning babies from mother's milk should not be earlier than 12 weeks after birth.

Castration and sterilization

Pet-class animals must be sterilized without fail

If you are not going to engage in breeding Abyssinians, then in this case you need to purchase a pet-class animal, that is, without the right to breed. Such a pet must be neutered or sterilized without fail. First of all, this is necessary for the animals themselves. Animals during the mating season can pester with their screams and constantly mark throughout the year. Such conditions can also affect the psyche of the Abyssinians - they will become aggressive and irritable. A non-breeding cat may develop purulent uterine inflammation.

Since the puberty of the Abyssinians begins early enough, the procedure for sterilization or castration in this breed can be carried out earlier than in other cats, already at the age of 5-6 months. But too early an operation is fraught with complications on the organs of the genitourinary system, since at the age of, for example, 4 months, it is not yet fully formed in the animal. Such operations are carried out under general anesthesia and take about 40 minutes. After the procedure, you need to take care of your pet for two weeks: check the condition of the wound, keep the lounger clean, and provide constant access to water.

Reviews of the owners about the breed

Abyssinian cats can become real friends for you. The main thing is to give them sufficient attention and give them room to satisfy their activity and curiosity.