what wild cat is the abyssinian from

The exact wild ancestors of the Abyssinian cat remain a topic of speculation, and concrete evidence is limited. However, based on genetic studies and historical accounts, there are some theories:

African Wildcat (Felis lybica)
The domestic cat's most direct ancestor is believed to be the African wildcat. Genetic studies suggest that domestic cats diverged from this wildcat species around 10,000 years ago in the Near East. Given the Abyssinian's physical resemblance to ancient Egyptian depictions of cats and the historical connections to the region (Abyssinia refers to Ethiopia), some believe that the Abyssinian might have roots tracing back to cats that were early descendants of the African wildcat.

The coat pattern of the Abyssinian, with its warm colors and unique ticking, somewhat resembles the agouti or ticked coat patterns found in some African wildcats. This similarity has led to speculation about a closer link between Abyssinians and these wildcats.

However, it's essential to understand that while the African wildcat played a role in the domestication of all domestic cat breeds, pinpointing a direct "wild" predecessor specifically for the Abyssinian breed is challenging.

Other Speculations
While the African wildcat theory is the most commonly accepted origin for most domestic cats, including the Abyssinian, there have been other speculations over the years. Some theories, often based on lore rather than concrete evidence, suggest ties to various regions, from Southeast Asia to the coastlines of the Indian Ocean.

Conclusion
The true wild origins of the Abyssinian cat, like many ancient breeds, remain enigmatic. While genetic studies provide insights into the broader history of domesticated cats, the specific journey of the Abyssinian's ancestors is still a mix of historical accounts, genetic data, and breed lore. It's this blend of mystery and unique charm that adds to the allure of the Abyssinian cat for many enthusiasts.