Why Choose an Abyssinian?

Abyssinians aren’t just beautiful — they’re full of life, intelligence, and heart. Often described as the “cat for people who love dogs,” Abyssinians are affectionate, active, and endlessly curious companions.

A Loyal, Lively Companion

Choosing an Abyssinian means welcoming a pet who is always nearby, watching, learning, and keeping you company. They aren’t shy or distant; they want to be part of your life, your family, and your routine.

If you’re looking for a companion who is as intelligent as they are elegant — full of personality, beauty, and heart — the Abyssinian may be the perfect choice.

At Tyax Cats, we raise our kittens in a home environment with lots of love and interaction, helping each one grow into a confident, affectionate, and playful companion.

Personality Traits

  • Playful and Energetic: Abys love to climb, explore, and play — whether it’s chasing toys, scaling cat trees, or investigating your cupboards! Their kitten-like spirit often lasts well into adulthood.

  • Intelligent and Inquisitive: These cats are incredibly smart. They learn routines quickly, enjoy puzzle toys, and often figure out how to open doors or drawers just to see what’s inside.

  • Affectionate (on Their Terms): While not typically lap cats, Abyssinians form strong bonds with their people. They’ll follow you from room to room, chat softly, and want to be involved in everything you do.

  • Social and Engaging: Abys don’t like to be left out. They thrive in busy households and get along well with children and other pets, especially if introduced properly.

The Enchanting History of the Abyssinian Cat

Abyssinians are one of the oldest and most captivating domestic cat breeds in the world. Known for their elegant, wildcat-like appearance and intelligent, lively personalities, these beautiful cats have fascinated humans for centuries — and their origins are just as intriguing.

Ancient Roots and Exotic Beginnings

  • Despite their name, Abyssinians don’t hail from Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia) as once believed. The name came from the first Abyssinian shown in Britain in the 1870s, reportedly imported from Abyssinia after the Abyssinian War. However, genetic studies and historical research suggest the breed likely originated along the coast of the Indian Ocean, with ancient ties to parts of Southeast Asia and Egypt.

  • Their resemblance to the sacred cats depicted in Ancient Egyptian art — with their almond-shaped eyes, large ears, and graceful bodies — is striking. It’s easy to imagine Abyssinians lounging in the temples of pharaohs or accompanying traders along ancient maritime routes.

Evolution and Global Spread

  • Through selective breeding, particularly in the UK and later in the United States, the Abyssinian's signature traits were carefully refined. Their lithe, muscular build, expressive eyes, and rich coat colours (such as ruddy, sorrel, blue, and fawn) became standard.

  • By the mid-20th century, the breed had gained global popularity, especially in the US, where breeding programs helped further solidify the Abyssinian’s elegant look and friendly nature.

Arrival in Britain

  • The modern Abyssinian breed began to take shape in Britain during the late 19th century. One of the earliest documented Abyssinians was a cat named Zula, brought to England by a British soldier in 1868. She became the foundation for the breed as we know it today.

  • Early breeders were captivated by her unique "ticked" coat — a pattern where each hair is banded with multiple colours. This ticking gives Abyssinians their characteristic warm, glowing appearance, often described as “wild-looking” yet refined.

A Living Piece of History

  • Today, Abyssinians are beloved not only for their beauty but also for their spirited and affectionate personalities. They’re curious, active, and deeply people-oriented — often forming strong bonds with their families and bringing a sense of playful charm to any home.

  • Here at Tyax Cats, we take great pride in continuing the legacy of this remarkable breed. Our Abyssinians are raised with care, respect, and love, ensuring they embody all the best traits that have made this breed a favourite for generations.

Abyssinian Coat Colours The Silver Abyssinian

One of the most distinctive features of Abyssinians is their beautifully ticked coat, where each hair is banded with multiple colours, creating a shimmering, almost iridescent effect. The breed comes in several recognised colours:

  • Ruddy (Usual): The classic and most well-known colour — a warm golden-brown base with black ticking.

  • Sorrel (Cinnamon): A rich copper or reddish-brown base with chocolate ticking, giving a fiery, glowing appearance.

  • Blue: A cool, soft bluish-grey base with deeper blue ticking. Elegant and subtle.

  • Fawn: A warm oatmeal or cream base with light cocoa ticking — delicate and refined.

At Tyax Cats, we specialise in the stunning Silver Abyssinian — a newer and rarer variation in the breed. Silver Abyssinians have the same distinctive ticking, but with a cool, pale silver or white base, creating a dramatic contrast with their darker ticking. This gives them a luminous, frosted look that’s truly eye-catching.

Silver colours include:

  • Silver Ruddy (Usual Silver): Black ticking over a silvery-white base.

  • Silver Sorrel: Chocolate ticking over a warm silver base.

  • Silver Blue: Blue-grey ticking over pale silver.

  • Silver Fawn: Light cocoa ticking over a frosty silver base.

These silver beauties maintain all the charm, intelligence, and energy the breed is known for, with an extra touch of elegance.