Abyssinian

UK (ancient roots) · 1800s

Athletic, curious explorer — busy, not a lap cat

SizeMedium6–10 lb
Life span12–15 years
CoatShort, ticked
Typical price$1,200–$2,800

Abyssinians have a warm ticked coat (every hair has bands of color), large ears and a lithe, athletic body. They are one of the most active and curious breeds.

At a glance

EnergyNon-stop
Cuddlylikes touch and being heldOn its terms
TalkativeQuiet
GroomingMinimal
SheddingLow
With kidsGood
With petsLoves company
Alone timehow long they’re happy aloneHalf a day

Life with an Abyssinian

An Aby wants to see what you’re doing and help — from the top of the fridge. They love climbing, fetch and puzzle toys and rarely sit still for long cuddles. They like company and often do well with another active cat.

Great for
  • Active people and families
  • Homes with lots of climbing space
  • People who want an interactive, not clingy cat
Think twice if
  • You want a lap cat
  • You can’t play with them every day
  • You want a calm cat for a small space
Care tips
  • Weekly brushing is plenty.
  • Tall cat trees and wall shelves are a must.
  • Brush their teeth — gum disease is common.

Health

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA, causes blindness), pyruvate kinase deficiency (PK-def, a type of anemia) and kidney amyloidosis occur. Gum disease is common.

Ask the breeder for
  • PRA (rdAc) DNA test
  • PK-def DNA test
  • Parents’ dental and kidney history
Typical US price$1,200–$2,800
RegistriesCFA · TICAAsk for both parents’ papers

Prices are rough ranges from registered breeders and vary by line, color and region. A much cheaper “purebred” kitten is a common scam sign.

See Abyssinian kittens

Similar breeds

SomaliVery active · IndependentEgyptian MauVery activeOcicatVery active · Needs company
Compare with similar breeds

Sources: breed standards and profiles from CFA and TICA, DNA tests listed by the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, and veterinary breed profiles.