Cat breed · Shorthair
Abyssinian
Curious, active, people-oriented
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–5 kg (7–11 lb)
- Height
- 20–30 cm (8–12 in)
- Life span
- 12–15 years
- Origin
- Ethiopia / Southeast Asia
By Maya HartThe coat
Short
Stroke it to see how it lies.
At a glance
Are Abyssinians right for you?
You will love
- Gentle and patient with children
- Usually gets on with other pets
- Quick to learn
- Sheds little
- Next to no grooming
Be ready for
- Needs a lot of exercise every day
- Several inherited health problems — choose a breeder who screens
How big, really
Adult Abyssinians weigh 3–5 kg (7–11 lb). Shoulder height shown at the top of the range.
About the Abyssinian
Abyssinians are among the most active cat breeds: they are on the top of the fridge, in the shopping bag and supervising every task. Their ticked coat, where each hair has bands of colour, gives them a warm, wild look.
They thrive on interaction and can become bored — and inventive — if left alone for long days. A second cat, climbing shelves and daily play with wand toys suit them well. Abyssinians are prone to gum disease, so regular tooth brushing and dental checks are worthwhile.
Health to know about
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency
- Renal amyloidosis
- Gum disease
Care in short
- Lots of play and climbing space
- Puzzle feeders
- Regular dental checks
Kit for a Abyssinian
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Best for short coats
Rubber grooming mitt
4.3Soft rubber nubs pick up loose hair and double as a massage.
- Works wet or dry
- Most pets enjoy it
Best for saving the sofa
Sisal scratching post, 80 cm
4.6Tall and heavy enough for a full stretch without wobbling.
- Sisal rope cats prefer
- Wide weighted base
Best for indoor cats
Multi-level cat tree
4.4Climbing, perching and hiding in one piece of furniture.
- Several perches
- Replaceable posts
Similar breeds
Questions owners ask
How big does a Abyssinian get?
Adults usually weigh 3–5 kg (7–11 lb) and stand 20–30 cm (8–12 in) tall.
How long do Abyssinians live?
Typically 12–15 years.
Are Abyssinians good with children?
Generally very good (4 out of 5 on our scale). Every dog or cat is an individual; always supervise young children.
Do Abyssinians shed?
Not much.
What health problems are Abyssinians prone to?
Progressive retinal atrophy; Pyruvate kinase deficiency; Renal amyloidosis; Gum disease.
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts