Abyssinian: Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, gives the Abyssinian an average weight of 4.5 kg and a lifespan of 12-15 years, and lists 4 breed-related health problems: renal amyloidosis, patella luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, pyruvate kinase deficiency. Estimated cost: £13,600 to £16,900 over a lifetime.
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Average weight | 4.5 kg (average) |
|---|---|
| Average lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Activity | Very active, loves climbing high, more likely to play than sit on a lap |
| Grooming | Minimal; they enjoy brushing mainly as interaction |
| Cost | £13,600 to £16,900 over a lifetime (pdsa estimate; average purchase price £600) |
Source: PDSA, Abyssinian breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- renal amyloidosis (much less common now through selective breeding)
- patella luxation
- progressive retinal atrophy (genetic tests available)
- pyruvate kinase deficiency
Source: PDSA, Abyssinian breed information.
Activity and grooming
PDSA describes the Abyssinian as very active, loves climbing high, more likely to play than sit on a lap. Grooming: minimal; they enjoy brushing mainly as interaction. Source: PDSA, Abyssinian breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as friendly, generally gets on with other pets after time to adjust, chats in a soft voice. PDSA advises asking breeders whether kittens have been tested where tests exist. Source: PDSA, Abyssinian breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: £13,600 to £16,900 over a lifetime (PDSA estimate; average purchase price £600). These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a cat and kitten first-year costs. Source: PDSA, Abyssinian breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do Abyssinians live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of 12-15 years.
What health problems do Abyssinians have?
PDSA lists renal amyloidosis (much less common now through selective breeding); patella luxation; progressive retinal atrophy (genetic tests available); pyruvate kinase deficiency.
How much does a Abyssinian cost?
PDSA's estimate: £13,600 to £16,900 over a lifetime (PDSA estimate; average purchase price £600).
Sources
- PDSA, Abyssinian breed information, read 7 November 2026.
Related pages
All breed guides, everything for cat owners, what cats can eat and pet emergency: what to do now.
