Abyssinian
The Abyssinian guinea pig has a short, rough coat arranged in distinct rosettes and raised ridges. These hair patterns, rather than a particular color, define its appearance. A dense, firm coat helps the ridges stand clearly, while a broad head and compact body complete the outline. The breed is often called an Aby. It is recognized in the ARBA Standard of Perfection for 2026 to 2030. In Britain it has a Full Standard under the British Cavy Council, whose current Abyssinian standard describes the arrangement of body, hip and rump rosettes.
The European standard also includes it among the rough coated varieties. Brindle, tortoiseshell, roan and other color groups can occur, with the show classes determined by the relevant registry. An Abyssinian Satin has the same general coat arrangement with a separate satin sheen, and is a distinct ARBA breed. For exhibition, the coat is kept clean, with distinct rosettes and straight ridges that stand well up from the body.
