The Abyssinian

Sacred Cat of Egypt

The Abyssinian breed is considered the oldest "pure" breed of cat.
It is said that the Egyptian cat statues you see as examples of ancient
Egyptian artwork are based on the Abyssinian.

For over 12 years, we bred Abyssinians and Silver Tabby American Shorthairs.
Our cattery, "Shahdaroba" was named in honor of an Egyptian love song
written by Roy Orbison, of the same title.

The true Abyssinian comes in two colors, ruddy and red. New colors
that have been developed in the breed are not the true or original colors--despite
what many breeders will tell you. The main characteristic traits of the "Aby"
are the long, lean body, cougar-like appearance, large ears, and green or gold
almond-shaped eyes. The Aby coat is unique in that the hairs are "ticked"
-- each hair has from 3 to 7 (usually 4 to 5 is the average) bands of color,
much like a rabbit or a deer. This gives the coat an iridescent glow.
The Aby likes to climb--the higher the better--and considers himself to be
quite graceful. We wouldn't want to hurt their feelings, but...gracefulness
is not always one of their more exemplary traits. They are exceptionally
inquisitive, very helpful in household chores, and consider themselves
the proprietors of the home.

This is "Bruzzy," our youngest Abyssinian cat. He celebrated his 7th birthday
on September 23, 1999. Bruzzy is a red Abyssinian.

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This page was updated on November 4, 1999

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