The Abyssinian cat is renowned for its striking appearance, which sets it apart from other feline breeds. With its lithe, muscular body and distinctive coat, the Abyssinian has captured the hearts of cat enthusiasts worldwide. This article delves into the unique physical characteristics that define the Abyssinian cat, making it one of the most recognizable breeds.
The Ticked Tabby Coat
One of the most defining features of the Abyssinian cat is its "ticked" tabby coat. Unlike
the typical tabby pattern, where stripes are prominent, the Abyssinian's coat is characterized by individual hairs banded with different colors. This gives the cat a warm, glowing appearance that is often compared to the look of a wildcat. The coat is short, fine, and silky to the touch, lying close to the body, which enhances the cat's sleek and elegant look.
The ticked effect is a result of a dominant mutant gene known as Ta. Each hair has a light base with three or four bands of additional color, growing darker towards the tip. This unique pattern is uniform over the body, although the ridge of the spine, tail, back of the hind legs, and the pads of the paws are noticeably darker. The original color standard for the breed is a warm, deep reddish-brown base with black ticking, known as "ruddy" or "usual."
Distinctive Body Structure
The Abyssinian cat is medium to large in size, with a lithe, fine-boned, and muscular build. The average weight ranges from 8 to 12 pounds, and the height is between 8 to 10 inches. The head is moderately wedge-shaped, with a slight break at the muzzle, and the nose and chin ideally form a straight vertical line when viewed in profile. This gives the Abyssinian a regal and alert expression.
The ears of the Abyssinian are relatively large and pointed, adding to its alert and curious demeanor. The eyes are almond-shaped and can be gold, green, hazel, or copper, depending on the coat color. The legs are long in proportion to the body, ending in small oval paws, and the tail is long and tapering, contributing to the cat's graceful appearance.
Color Variations and Patterns
While the ruddy coat is the most recognized, the Abyssinian comes in several color variations. Sorrel, also known as cinnamon or red, features a lighter coppery base with chocolate brown ticking. Other variants include blue, with a warm beige base, and fawn, with a softer creamy peach base. In the UK, the Silver Abyssinian is recognized, where the base coat is a pure silvery white with black, blue, cream, or sorrel ticking.
These color variations have been introduced through outcrossing with other shorthaired breeds, adding to the diversity and appeal of the Abyssinian cat. Despite these variations, the breed standard emphasizes the importance of a clear base color and minimal intermingling with gray, ensuring the Abyssinian's coat remains one of its most captivating features.
