The Abyssinian, The Cat With The Prying Eyes

If cats are characterized by their curiosity, the Abyssinian goes further and has the curiosity revealed by the way he looks. But not only that. His eyes are deep, expressive and very lively. Its stylized body and wild image resemble a cougar.

It’s cat-shaped elegance. This beautiful animal seems to descend from the time when pussies were considered gods in Ancient Egypt.

The origin of this breed is not certain. The most widespread version of its origin holds that the breed was introduced to Europe in 1868 by a member of the British army who, upon returning from the African region of Abyssinia – present-day Ethiopia – brought with him a cat, named Zula.

For some, Zula arrived pregnant with an African wild cat. Others point out that Zula, already in English lands, crossed with a decidedly British cat.

The truth is that the official presentation of the Abyssinian took place in 1871 and was recognized as a race 11 years later.

At the beginning of the last century it was taken to the United States, which helped to prevent its extinction because of World War II and a feline leukemia epidemic that spread across the old continent.

There are those who maintain that the breed was created in England from animals with streaked coats, one of the peculiarities of these cats. However,  the most recent studies by geneticists seem to establish its origin on the coast of the Indian Ocean, in Southeast Asia.

A loving, playful and needy cat

If you are considering adopting a cat because you think it will require less attention and care from you than a dog, then Abyssinian is certainly not the best option.

Now, if what you want is a vivacious animal, willing to play and that asks you and offers affection constantly, don’t doubt that it is the perfect choice.

Curiosity is not only an expression of your eyes, but also a feature of your personality. He is very active: he jumps, scales, searches every corner and even dares to swim. But at the same time, he’s calm and kind.

It is neither wandering too much nor straying too far, and it is easily startled by strange noises or situations.

Sensitive and intelligent, it has a lively and lively character that will disappear if you leave it alone. You will immediately notice your sadness if there is not the constant presence of humans in your midst.

You tend to develop a strong emotional bond with the members of your home, whom you will follow in their moods. But, in front of strangers, he shows himself reserved and keeps his distance.

Some details to consider:

• Keep your nails short to preserve your furniture, curtains and even your shoulders. Yes, you should know that your adorable cat will be able to jump on you when you least expect it.
• Give him toys to keep him busy and stimulate his intelligence.
• Provide food according to the energy he expends, which is a lot.
• Although it adapts easily to different spaces – you can live in an apartment, as long as it can move freely – ideally it would have a garden, patio or terrace to run, jump and play with whatever you find.

• Given your gift as a climber, take care to avoid accidents. If your house is not ground floor, use some type of protection or closure on windows, balconies and roof.

 Physical characteristics of the curious-eyed cat

• Agile and muscular body. Also slender and long.
• Medium and proportional size.
• Head slightly triangular and thin. With a firm chin.
• Large, separate ears. They are not overly sharp as they tend to be rounded at the ends. Contribute to their expression of alertness.
• Almond-shaped eyes, green, yellow or brown.
• Dark nose.
• Long, slender legs.
• Tail with intense fur that tapers towards the tip.
• Short, shiny coat. Just brush once a week.
• The most common colors are copper tones and different shades of brown.

• Mantle with a dotted characteristic of light tones that, when spread out, contribute to a contrast with the dominant tone.

Bear in mind that Abyssinians are prone to suffer from some illnesses, such as chronic kidney failure, so it is recommended that you carry out periodic checks with the veterinarian to keep this beautiful animal with the eternal soul of a playful puppy, that you have chosen as Pet.