Abyssinian cat pet insurance
Is the Abyssinian cat right for you?
Abyssinian owner’s guide
Ready to take a walk on the wild side? These exotic-looking, inquisitive cats are a firm family favourite. Learn more about their temperament, care needs, and whether they’re right for your home.
Abyssinian cat quick facts
- Size: Medium (height around 20–25cm, body length 45–55cm)
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
- Weight: 2.7–4.5kg (males are typically larger than females)
- Coat: Short, fine, and ticked (multi-coloured hairs)
- Characteristics: Curious, energetic, affectionate, intelligent
- Common diseases and health problems: Periodontal disease, patellar luxation, renal problems
- Country of origin: Ethiopia (formerly Abyssinia)
Where does the Abyssinian cat come from?
Abyssinians are thought to trace their roots back to ancient Egypt, but their modern name comes from Abyssinia (now Ethiopia) where the breed was first formally documented. They were brought to Europe in the 19th century and have been popular ever since for their striking looks and playful personalities.
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Protect your Abyssinian with peace of mind from Agria.
What is an Abyssinian cat’s temperament?
Abyssinians are known for being playful and highly curious. They enjoy being busy and are often on the move exploring, jumping, climbing, or chasing toys.
Loving
Though not a traditional lap cat, they're affectionate and love to be around their humans.
Social
They thrive on interaction and get along well with families, children, and even other pets.
Interactive
They love being involved in everything around the home. So, whether you’re cooking dinner or trying to work, expect company!
Abyssinian cat training and exercise
Abyssinian cats are active and bright. Here are a few ways to keep them stimulated:
- 1
Puzzles and games
They’re quick learners and enjoy games that challenge their minds - think puzzle feeders or interactive toys that require problem-solving.
- 2
Playtime is essential
Daily active play helps keep them healthy and prevents them from getting up to mischief through boredom.
- 3
Vertical space
Abyssinians love to climb. Cat trees, shelves, or secure window perches are highly recommended.
- 4
Let them explore
They’re natural adventurers. Harness walks or supervised garden time can be great enrichment.
Abyssinian cats: Indoors versus outdoors
Abyssinians are very curious cats, as well as being quite social and bold, this can make them a potential theft risk and a nuisance to the neighbours – they’re known to invite themselves into other people’s homes for food and/or a general nose!
This means they’re best kept as indoor cats with access to secure spaces like catios or fenced gardens. However, if kept indoors, they need climbing spaces and plenty of stimulation, so you’ll likely need to adapt your home to suit their adventurous nature.
Abyssinian cat appearance and size
What does an Abyssinian cat look like?
Abyssinians are elegant, medium-sized cats with lean, muscular bodies. Their coat is short and silky, featuring a unique ticked pattern, meaning each hair has multiple bands of colour. This gives them a warm, glowing appearance, especially in popular shades like ruddy, red (sorrel), blue, and fawn. They have large, expressive almond-shaped eyes (usually gold or green) and oversized ears that make them appear always alert.
Abyssinian cat grooming
Abyssinian cat health problems
Abyssinian cats are usually healthy, but they can inherit some medical problems, such as;
Renal amyloidosis
Protein build-up in the kidneys.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Eye degeneration
Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKD)
A red blood cell disorder
Patellar luxation
Kneecap dislocation
Hyperthyroidism
Thyroid imbalance
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease
To help avoid these issues, it’s best to choose a reputable breeder, as many screen their breeding cats for inherited conditions to ensure healthier kittens.
Find out more about the most common cat health issues claimed on pet insurance.
How long do Abyssinian cats live?
Abyssinians typically live 9 to 15 years, though some can live longer with proper care and regular vet check-ups. Genetics, diet, and exercise all play a role in their longevity. Keeping their teeth and kidneys healthy can make a big difference.
Getting an Abyssinian kitten
Abyssinian kittens are confident, fast-developing, and curious. If you’re thinking of getting an Abyssinian kitten, it’s a good idea to kitten-proof your home first. They’re known to climb things from quite an early age, like bookshelves, so this is something to keep in mind.
Ask your breeder what food the kitten is used to, and stick with that initially to avoid stomach upsets. All kittens should be vaccinated, vet-checked, and dewormed before adoption. Also ask when their next vet visit and booster shots are due.
Learn more about settling a kitten into your home.
Abyssinian cat insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Abyssinian life, we’ll always be there for you and your cat!
Agria Pet Insurance has been awarded 'best pet insurance overall' from The Telegraph.
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your cat can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your cat.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
Abyssinian cat FAQs
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