Abyssinian guinea pig

The Abyssinian is set apart from other breeds of guinea pig by its coat, which is marked with radially growing swirls or cowlicks of hair referred to as rosettes.

It drew much attention as an exhibition cavy in Victorian England due to its unique coat.

On a show quality Abyssinian, there will be eight or ten distinct rosettes: one on each shoulder, two or four on the back, one on each hip, and two on the rump.

[3][4] However, it is difficult to breed an Abyssinian with ideal rosettes, and many pet-quality cavies have imperfect coats.

[5] The Abyssinian is described as being more energetic than most other cavy breeds, but easier to train due to its inquisitive nature.