30 THE CAT 



There is another colour for the Siamese the 

 chocolate body, with pure black points. 



Siamese cats make excellent pets, being com- 

 panionable; and are easily taught to fraternize with 

 dogs, being full of life; and thrive fairly well in 

 either a temperate or sunny climate. 



They ought not to be kept out of doors in winter, 

 and cannot be recommended where the climate is 

 severe or exposed. Tip-top specimens are difficult 

 to obtain, and readily command high prices. 



Another striking feature of this royal breed is 

 the peculiarity of their gait resembling that of 

 the monkey. 



In course of time the constitution of the Siamese 

 will probably improve. Its acclimatization in this 

 country ought to render it less delicate. 



The Abyssinian, 



This is a short-haired variety of cat, occasionally 

 seen at the larger shows. In colour it is hare- 

 brown with brownish black tickings. There should 

 be a sharply defined black trace running the length 

 of the spine, ending in the tail. The eyes are 

 hazel. 



Abyssinian s are a good deal used for cross 

 breeding. They should be of a smart and com- 

 pact conformation of body. In size they are 

 about the same as the ordinary English cat. 



