Traditional Abyssinian Cats

Traditional Abyssinian cats, also known as “Old-style Abyssinians,” refer to Abyssinians that adhere closely to the original breed standard and retain the classic appearance and characteristics of the breed. These cats are reminiscent of the early Abyssinians that existed before selective breeding and modern breeding practices led to some variations in the breed’s appearance.

European-type Abyssinian cats

The term “European Abyssinian” refers to Abyssinian cats that are bred and recognized in Europe, particularly by European cat associations and breeders. While Abyssinians originated from Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia), the breed has spread globally, including Europe, where it has gained popularity and developed its own unique characteristics.

European Abyssinians may have certain traits and standards that differ from those recognized in other regions.

Abyssinian Cats Color and Pattern

Abyssinian cats are known for their beautiful and unique coat colors, which add to their distinctive appearance. While the primary coat color of Abyssinians is usually a warm reddish-brown, known as sorrel, there are other recognized coat colors within the breed. Here are some common Abyssinian cat coat colors and their descriptions:

  1. Sorrel: Sorrel is the most common and recognized coat color in Abyssinians. It is a warm reddish-brown hue that gives the cat an elegant and vibrant appearance. The individual hairs of the coat are ticked with multiple bands of color, giving the coat a shimmering effect.
  2. Blue: Blue Abyssinians have a beautiful blue-gray coat. This color variation is the result of a dilution gene acting on the ruddy color. The ticking pattern on the individual hairs is visible, with the blue-gray color providing a cool and soft overall appearance.
  3. Fawn: Fawn Abyssinians have a light beige or tan coat color. They are lighter in color compared to the sorrel Abyssinians, and their coat may have a delicate and soft appearance. The ticking pattern is still present but appears lighter on the fawn coat.
  4. Chocolate: Chocolate Abyssinians have a rich, deep brown coat color that resembles the color of chocolate. This color variation is less common but highly sought after for its luxurious and striking appearance. The ticking pattern is visible on the chocolate coat, adding depth to the color.
  5. Silver: Silver Abyssinians have a silver-tipped coat, giving them a sparkling and eye-catching appearance. The base color of the coat can vary, with variations such as silver sorrel or silver blue. The silver ticking creates a contrast between the silver tips and the lighter base color, resulting in a stunning overall look.

It’s important to note that the availability of specific coat colors may vary depending on the breeding programs and regional standards. Additionally, individual Abyssinians within each coat color can exhibit slight variations in shade and intensity.

Abyssinian-Kitten-for-sale
  1. Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA): The CFA is a reputable organization that provides information about various cat breeds, including Abyssinians. Their website (https://cfa.org/abyssinian/) offers breed profiles, care tips, and resources specific to Abyssinians.
  2. The International Cat Association (TICA): TICA is another recognized cat organization that provides valuable information about different cat breeds. Their website (https://www.tica.org/) offers breed standards, breeders’ directories, and educational resources that include information on Abyssinians.
  3. Abyssinian Breed Clubs: Look for Abyssinian breed clubs or associations in your region. These organizations often have websites or online resources dedicated to Abyssinians, providing breed information, health guidelines, and tips on caring for Abyssinian cats.
  4. Veterinary Websites: Websites of reputable veterinary organizations or pet health websites often have informative articles on specific cat breeds. They can offer insights into the health, care, and behavior of Abyssinians. Websites like WebMD Pets (https://pets.webmd.com/cats/) or the American Association of Feline Practitioners (https://catvets.com/) can be helpful.
  5. Cat Forums and Online Communities: Participating in online cat forums and communities dedicated to Abyssinians can provide a wealth of information from experienced Abyssinian owners and enthusiasts. Websites like CatForum (https://www.catforum.com/) or The Cat Site (https://thecatsite.com/) have active communities where you can find discussions, advice, and recommended resources.