Abyssinian

Abyssinian [ab΄ə sin′ē ən]

n.

1. ETHIOPIAN

2. any of a breed of short-haired domestic cat, ruddy brown or reddish in color, with a rounded, wedge-shaped head, originating in Egypt or Ethiopia (Abyssinia)

adj.

ETHIOPIAN (adj. 1)

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See Abyssinia.

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▪ breed of cat

 breed of domestic cat (cat, domestic), probably of Egyptian origin, that has been considered to approximate the sacred cat of ancient Egypt more closely than any other living cat. The Abyssinian is a lithe cat with relatively slender legs and a long, tapering tail. The short, finely textured coat is ruddy reddish brown, with individual hairs of the back, sides, chest, and tail distinctively ticked, or tipped, with bands of black or brown. The nose is red, the eyes are hazel, green, or gold, and the tail tip and backs of the hindlegs are black. The Abyssinian is noted for being affectionate and quiet, though generally shy with strangers.

  Selected shorthair breeds of catsSee the Table of Selected Shorthair Breeds of Cats (Selected shorthair breeds of cats) for further information.

 

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