The Abyssinian Cat: An Early History

The Abyssinian cat, often regarded as the feline breeds most closely resembling ancient depictions of domesticated cats, boasts a rich and intricate history. The breed’s origins are steeped in mystery and speculation, intertwining various geographical and cultural narratives. This comprehensive account delves into the early history of the Abyssinian cat, tracing its journey from the Middle East to England in the mid-1800s, and exploring its evolution into the modern breed beloved by cat enthusiasts today.

Origins and Early History

Mythical Beginnings and First Imports

The Abyssinian cat’s story is adorned with numerous fanciful claims regarding its origin. Notably, it is considered the breed closest in appearance to the original domesticated cats depicted in ancient Egyptian art. It is believed that the progenitors of the Abyssinian breed were imported into England from the Middle East during the mid-19th century. These early imports were subsequently bred with British domestic cats, including British Ticks (random-bred ticked tabby shorthairs), to create the foundation of the modern Abyssinian breed.

Early Crossbreeding and Selective Breeding

The journey to refine the Abyssinian’s distinct look involved extensive crossbreeding. Fanciers crossed these early imported cats with Russian Blues, Siamese, Persians, and Angoras, aiming to enhance specific traits such as ear size and to reduce unwanted striping on the neck, legs, tail, and face. This selective breeding process not only shaped the breed’s physical attributes but also introduced the recessive longhair gene, which occasionally appears in modern Abyssinians.

Alternative Origins and DNA Analysis

Contrary to the popular belief that the Abyssinian originated in Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia), it is more plausible that the original cats were brought to Abyssinia by British Army officers and their families, who had previously been stationed in India or Sri Lanka. The term “Indian cats” was used in the early days of the cat fancy to describe sandy-colored ticked cats, a lineage now represented by the rare “Ceylonese” breed. Modern DNA analysis supports this theory, indicating that the breed’s origins lie in Asia rather than Africa.

Significant Milestones in the Breed’s Development

1834-1836: The Leiden Zoological Museum

The Leiden Zoological Museum in the Netherlands acquired a taxidermy specimen of an “Indian Cat” between 1834 and 1836. This specimen, predating the more famous Abyssinian named “Zula” by 30 years, highlights the breed’s presence in Europe prior to its popularization.

1868: The Arrival of Zula

The first Abyssinian cat widely recognized in historical accounts is Zula, who was purportedly brought to England by a British soldier returning from the Abyssinian War in 1868. Although Zula’s appearance differed significantly from modern Abyssinians, with longer fur and a more rustic look, she played a crucial role in the breed’s early history.

1871: Crystal Palace Show

Zula made her public debut at the Crystal Palace Show on December 16, 1871. Despite her “woebegone appearance,” as described in Harper’s Weekly, she garnered significant attention and marked the Abyssinian’s entry into the world of competitive cat shows.

1882: Recognition and Controversy

In 1882, the Abyssinian was listed as a separate breed, although not without controversy. Harrison Weir, a notable early cat fancier, and judge, argued in 1889 that the Abyssinian was not a distinct breed but rather the result of chance matings between ordinary tabbies. This perspective was shared by Louis Wain, another prominent figure in the cat fancy.

Evolution and Recognition

The First Standard of Points

Harrison Weir created the first Standard of Points for Abyssinians in 1889, describing both the ruddy and silver-grey varieties. Despite Weir’s recognition, the breed struggled for acceptance and was often judged alongside other foreign cats, which many breeders felt was unfair.

Experimental Matings and Color Variations

Breeders conducted experimental matings to explore the range of ticked colors that could emerge from crossing Abyssinians with other breeds. This experimentation led to the development of the Abyssinian Chinchilla, an early form of the Silver Abyssinian, and other color variations.

Early Champions and Registration

The late 19th century saw the registration of some of the first notable Abyssinians, such as Sedgemere Bottle and Sedgemere Peaty. Queen Jumbo, another early registered Abyssinian, exhibited in 1892, was recognized as the first registered Abyssinian, highlighting the breed’s growing prominence.

The Role of Influential Breeders

Mrs. Constance Carew-Cox

Around 1900, Mrs. Constance Carew-Cox began breeding Abyssinians, including both ruddy and silver types. Her efforts, particularly in exporting silvers to the USA, were crucial in establishing the breed internationally, despite the silver variety not gaining lasting popularity.

H.C. Brooke’s Contributions

H.C. Brooke, a staunch opponent of the Silver Abyssinian, played a significant role in shaping the breed’s standard and maintaining its integrity. His booklet, “The Abyssinian Cat,” criticized the silver variety for diluting the breed’s rich ruddy coloring. Despite his opposition, Brooke’s work helped preserve the Abyssinian lineage during its formative years.

Mrs. Carew-Cox’s Legacy

Upon H.C. Brooke’s retirement, Mrs. Carew-Cox continued her efforts to prevent the Abyssinian breed from fading into obscurity. Her dedication to breeding and promoting Abyssinians ensured the breed’s survival and eventual recognition in the cat fancy.

Conclusion

The early history of the Abyssinian cat is a tapestry woven with tales of adventurous imports, selective breeding, and dedicated fanciers who shaped the breed into what it is today. From its debated origins in the Middle East to its establishment in England and beyond, the Abyssinian’s journey is a testament to the enduring appeal and remarkable evolution of this ancient and beloved breed.