Personality

Abyssinians are quite active, social and vocal. They bond closely with their owners and want to be involved in everything that their people do. They are very adaptable to new situations and environments. Abys are intelligent and easy to train; they also are quite good at training their owners to wait on them hand and foot. Abyssinians are not simply ornamental lap cats, although they enjoy a good snuggle and are highly affectionate to their family members. This is a sturdy, smart, witty, fun and funny breed that can be demanding of attention and respect.

Activity Level

Abyssinians are energetic, athletic and playful with their owners. They also have been described as being quiet, shy, gentle, reserved and somewhat aloof with strangers. Abys thrive in an indoor living environment and typically provide hours of daily amusement to their owners. They are highly social and sociable, and they require a definite role in the family unit. This is not a breed to be left alone for long periods of time, as they can become bored and destructive. Even as adults, they remain playful and rotate between periods of frenzied activity and total relaxation. They are known to be proficient hunters.

Behavioral Traits

Abyssinians normally get along quite well with other cats, and even with dogs. They are not prolific breeders, rarely having more than three or four kittens in a litter. Most breed fanciers recommend that Abys be kept indoors, to promote a healthy, long and safe life. Abyssinians have very short hair and are susceptible to becoming chilled in cold weather. Also, house cats have a greatly reduced risk of being hit by cars, contracting infectious diseases and becoming infested with external or internal parasites than do cats allowed to roam freely outdoors. Abyssinians make wonderful companions and are among the most personable of all exotic domestic cat breeds.