Guinea Pig Breeds Abyssinian
The abyssinian guinea pig is an interesting animal that is unique among the guinea pig population.
Guinea pig breeds abyssinian. However that is far from the case. One of the oldest types of guinea pigs the abyssinian is certainly a great icebreaker for a home guest. Many guinea pigs which you find in the pet shops or rescue centres are a mixture of various breeds. The actual origins of its name are not known although it is known to have originated in south america.
A geology wiz may guess that they come from the historic region of abyssinia which is now called ethiopia. The fur is usually around three to four centimeters long and forms a rough spikey pattern referred to as rosettes. Their iconic multi colored hair with swirls make them some of the best show guinea pigs in the world. Abyssinian guinea pigs are considered to be among the oldest breeds of guinea pigs still in existence today.
The abyssinian was bred from other breeds of guinea pigs in order to act as exotic pets for the europeans. As they love socializing and getting the attention of its owners. Where these rosettes meet their hair will form upright ridges giving a wavy appearance to their somewhat wiry coat. Some are more common than others such as the abyssinian which is quite a common type of cavy and some like the merino are rarer.
They have a long body with a small face. Abyssinians typically have an even number of rosettes with the show quality specimens having eight or ten swirls of hair including two on their shoulders two on their hips two on their rump and two or four on their back. Abyssinian guinea pigs are distinguished by rosettes essentially flower shaped cowlicks that create a striking pattern. The abyssinian drew much attention as an exhibition cavy in victorian england due to its unique coat.
The abyssinian is one of the oldest guinea pig breeds. Abyssinian guinea pig highlights. The abyssinian guinea pig is an adorable breed of domestic cavies popular for its unique coat and outgoing personality. Perhaps one of the oldest breeds the abyssinian guinea pig has been around for centuries.
Despite its name it did not originate in abyssinia which is now ethiopia. There are many different types breeds of guinea pig each with their own characteristics colouring and markings. It is likely that they were brought over from europe to the new world around the 1500 s. Abyssinian guinea pig the derivation of the breed s name is unknown but does not connote an origin in the geographical region of abyssinia present day ethiopia.
Their origin goes so far back that nobody really knows where their name came from.