- Cat Breed Facts

1. Status: Blue color was granted championship status in 1984. Chocolate holds preliminary status as of now.
2. Size and Weight: Medium sized weighing 8-10 lbs
3. Coat: Silky and soft with a lustrous sheen. Medium in length.
4. Head and Muzzle: Slightly rounded and a modified wedge shaped head. The muzzle is neither pointed nor squared.
5. Body: Medium length with well defined muscular structure.
6. Colors: Ruddy Brown, Red, Cinnamon, Blue, Fawn, Chocolate, Lilac, Blue Tortie, Blue Silver, Fawn Silver, Red Silver, Cream Silver
7. Life Expectancy: 10+ years. Some often reach nearly 18.
8. Popularity: Since the 1990s the Abyssinians have been gaining immense popularity.
9. Habitat: Usually prefer outdoors. Can do well indoors if ample outdoor activity is provided regularly.

 - Cat Breed Origins

1. Country of Origin: Egypt
2. Lineage: There is still some conflict over its ancestry. Though they resemble the ancient Egyptian depictions, there is another theory pointing their lineage towards India.
3. Date Admitted to CFA: 1984.
4. Historical Information: The origin of Abyssinian cats is still under dark shrouds with names of Egypt and India heard often. The British have known the Abyssinians since the 1800s. America did not see them until 1917. But it was only later in 1934 that the Abyssinians started becoming popular in the US.

 - Cat Breed Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease: Training an Abyssinian is easy since they are intelligent and responsive.
2. Temperament: Abyssinians are intelligent and playful. They like to be busily occupied with something always. They are also sensitive and responsive to the owner's mood. They are loyal and affectionate to their family.
3. Tolerance to Children: They get along well with children.
4. Behavior: They prefer outdoor to indoor activity.

- Cat Breed Concerns

1. Health Issues: They are usually healthy cats, but might be prone to gingivitis.
2. Feeding: Feeding must include much fatty acids and ample protein to supplement their highly active lives. Dry food thrice a week could prevent teeth and gum problems.
3. Exercise Needs: There is no need for special care for its exercise. Their active lives take care of that.
4. Grooming Needs: Regular brushing and occasional baths.
5. Special Household Needs: None. Give them plenty of time to play.
6. Travel Needs: Lots of water would help.
7. Getting Along With Other Pets: Abyssian Cats are usually tolerant with other pets.

 - How to Choose your Cat Breed

1. What To Look for in a Healthy Cat: The kitten is active and should respond well to human voice. Lethargy would be totally out of personality and may well be indicative of ill health.
2. What You Will Need for a New Cat: The usual cat needs a crate, bowls, brushes, play toys, etc.
3. Cat-Proofing your House: They try to follow the owner everywhere, just take care to close the toilet doors. These cats shed less.

How to Make Your New Cat Feel at Home: The cat is very attached to its owner and the family. Try to be as interactive as possible and do not use a harsh tone of voice, as they are very sensitive to human emotion.