Origin
According to many sources, the Abyssinian was already known at the court of the pharaohs. The resemblance between today's Abyssinian and mummified cats found in Egyptian excavations is striking. The first Abyssinian was brought to Great Britain from Ethiopia in 1868. Recognised from 1882, the two World Wars and a feline leukaemia epidemic almost wiped out the breed. It was not until the late 1960s that the population began to grow again.

Character
Abyssinians are independent and intelligent cats with a strong character. Not very obtrusive, they have an elegant way of making their intentions clear. They need a lot of attention and will pine if left alone.

Care
The coat is easy to keep in good condition. During moulting, a rubber massage glove removes loose hairs. Outside the moulting season, brushing followed by a fine comb is sufficient.

Body: muscular, firm and supple. Slender legs with fine bone structure, small oval feet.

Head: moderately wedge-shaped, slight curve on the nose bridge, firm chin.

Eyes: almond-shaped, obliquely set, lively expression.

Ears: relatively large, set low, broad at the base.

Tail: fairly long, broad at the base tapering to a point.

Coat: springy, fairly short, fine and silky, lying close to the body.

Colour: wildcolour (ruddy), sorrel, blue, fawn and these colours with silver.

Particulars
Kittens are born with dark coats that gradually lighten. It takes several months before the definitive colour becomes visible.