Abyssinian Cats

A short historical view

Abyssinian Cats were recognized in England as long ago as 1882. The first American Abyssinian was born in 1935 and was named Addis Ababa. Since there has been very little written about Abyssinians, their history is difficult to outline. Many theories have them appearing first in Abyssinia, England, Egypt, and Africa, but offer no real proof or authenticity. The most popular theory is that the sacred cats pictured on ancient Egyptian artifacts and hieroglyphics are our beloved Abyssinians, making them one of the oldest breed of cat. Although they look like a little wild cat, it has never been proven that they are, indeed, direct descendants of our jungle beauties.

This page was last updated 31 Mars 1998.