The abyssinian is considered one of the oldest breeds. Originally believed to have come from Egypt, modern genetics place its probable origin somewhere on the Indian subcontinent. It's distinctive ticking, three or more bands of color on each hair, contribute to it's striking appearance and "wild" look.
The Cat Fancier's Association, or CFA, recognizes four colors: ruddy, red, blue and fawn, Some registries recognize the silver variations of these colors, and the British GCCF registers them in 23 colors!
Abyssinians have wonderful, curious personalities that fit in well with most households. They are active and intelligent, and make excellent companions. An aby will retain much of it's kittenish behavior well into middle age, and even senior citizens can be tempted with a favorite feather toy or puff ball. They like to perch, so you shouldn't be surprised to find them on top of the bookcase, stair rail, or even your shoulder.
Nothing makes an aby happier than companionship -- of almost any kind. They love their humans, and get along famously with other cats, dogs, ands even more exotic pets. They are very social and very loyal and wouldn't want to be alone for hours on end. To quote Joan Miller, a CFA judge: "Once you have acquired an aby as a companion, you will never be able to complain that no-one understands you. Abys are very good at training people to do just what they want them to do"