Guinea Pig Breeds Abyssinian
The abyssinian drew much attention as an exhibition cavy in victorian england due to its unique coat.
Guinea pig breeds abyssinian. Despite its name it did not originate in abyssinia which is now ethiopia. 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. Many guinea pigs which you find in the pet shops or rescue centres are a mixture of various breeds. 10 guinea pig breeds guide to all types of guinea pigs.
As you can probably guess the american guinea pig is the most common. Abyssinian guinea pig known for their tufted coats called rosettes the abyssinian is a common breed choice of guinea pig and one which does well in shows. The abyssinian guinea pig has a dense coarse short haired coat which forms at least six distinct rosettes or whirls. There are many different types breeds of guinea pig each with their own characteristics colouring and markings.
Abyssinian guinea pigs are one of the oldest and most popular breeds in the community. Abyssinian guinea pigs are considered to be among the oldest breeds of guinea pigs still in existence today. Lively affectionate easy to care for. The abyssinian is unlike any other breed of guinea pig.
These guinea pigs have around 6 8 rosette all around their bodies which gives them a unique appearance. The actual origins of its name are not known although it is known to have originated in south america. The rosettes are worth 25 points by arba standard. 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.
Their coat is harsh and the hair length should not exceed 4 cm. The abyssinian guinea pig is truly a unique breed of guinea pig that has awed many people all around the world. The abyssinian is one of the oldest guinea pig breeds. It is very difficult to breed a guinea pig with perfectly placed rosettes and many abyssinians end up as pets and not as show stock.
Its coat grows from eight rosettes which are arranged in two lines across the body. An old breed the first recorded abyssinian in europe was during the 16th century. For show purposes eight rosettes are usually required four in a line along the body one on each hip and two on the rump all in a symmetrical fashion. The abyssinian was bred from other breeds of guinea pigs in order to act as exotic pets for the europeans.
Abyssinians are very curious and bright creatures that have a lot of personality as well as energy.