How to Select an Abyssinian

The Abyssinian is one of the oldest known breeds. It resembles the ancient Egyptian cat more than any other, although there's no solid proof the Aby is the same breed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Formula For Kittens
• Cat Beds
• Cat Carriers
• Cat Collars
• Cat Combs/brushes
• Cat Dishes
• Cat Foods
• Cat Litters
• Cat Scratchers
• Cat Shampoos
• Cat Toys
• Cat Treats
• Cat Magazines

1. Find a responsible breeder who will guarantee that your Abyssinian is in good health and doesn't have feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
2. Expect to pay $200 to $500 for your Aby.
3. Pick up and hold the cat or kitten to check for good muscle tone.
4. Make sure that the cat isn't sneezing or sniffling, that the eyes have no discharge and that the ears are clean and pink inside.
5. Examine the cat's fur, which should be short and thick and have no bald patches or signs of dry or flaky skin.
6. Check for fleas behind the ears and at the base of the tail - flea dirt, which looks like black sand, is a sure sign.
7. Get a written sales agreement from the breeder that provides the breeder's health guarantee.
8. Take your Aby to your veterinarian as soon as possible to confirm that the cat is healthy.
9. Take home a kitten no younger than 12 weeks of age.
10. Plan to keep your Abyssinian inside and to have the cat neutered or spayed. Vets say it's the best way to keep cats happy and disease-free.

Tips & Warnings

• Abyssinians love people, but if you're looking for a lap cat, the active Aby is not the cat for you. They remain playful even as they get older. They like to be in the same room as you, but usually in a high place, such as the top of a bookcase or the refrigerator.
• Abys love water. You're likely to find yours in the sink under a dripping faucet.
• A kidney disease called renal amyloidosis is found in Abys, but contrary to popular belief, it's not exclusive to the breed.
• Like many other cats, Abys can be prone to gingivitis. Red gums and bad breath are symptoms. Weekly toothbrushings can prevent it.