The Abyssinian Personality

Abyssinians are amazing cats through and through; from the distinctive way they look, rather like a mini wild cat, to their remarkable intelligence and inquisitive nature. Not forgetting that they come in an astounding variety of colours, from the more widely seen Usual/Ruddy, Sorrel, Fawn and Blue, to the "unusual" colours – Silver, Chocolate, Lilac, Red, Cream & Tortoiseshell - and combinations of these with the more common colours – all in all producing 28 distinct and recognizable colours. These cats are in a league of their own, as any one who’s had the pleasure of sharing their life with one or more Abys will no doubt tell you!

In general Abyssinians aren't the right cat if you’re looking for a feline family member, who’s just decorative and content to sit around looking lovely! Nor are they for the person who craves a contented lap cat. Although Abys are absolutely gorgeous, as well as being both loyal and affectionate... The Abyssinian personality isn’t easy to fully sum up, they are all such individuals, very curious and often very high-spirited; in fact Abys give new meaning to the word active!

Abyssinians are natural performers, happy to amuse you with their antics, from perching on shoulders, to crawling under the covers at 6am for a little extra fussing and a good warm up, or just sitting beside you purring loudly before dashing off to take a flying leap at their latest invisible friend, toy or an unsuspecting housemate! They are natural athletes, and no closed room or cupboard is fully safe from their agile paws and inquiring minds – oh yes we’ve had TV’s turned on in the middle of the night only to come down and see our Abys sat watching it, looking ever so innocent! Both of mine climb like huge squirrels when playing in their run and have a fantastic ability to find things we’ve managed to loose or misplace round here – earning themselves the nickname of Abyssinian Retrievers! In fact Ramses is often found returning one of my lost earnings and Isis is the queen of search and rescue when my son puts his retainer somewhere daft! All in all they never cease to amuse us…

Although when restrained, Abyssinians do tend to become struggling bundles of fur with more than the usual number of legs, elbows and paws! However, they are also incredibly affectionate. Abys are loving, loyal and totally thrive on be involved in every aspect of your life. The Abyssinian easily becomes your friend, devoted companion as well as your confidant who loves you totally and unconditionally. With an Abyssinian or two by your side life will never be dull!