Calico cats are a fascinating breed of feline that are known for their unique coat patterns. Whether you’re a cat lover or just interested in learning more about these fascinating animals, calico cats are definitely worth getting to know. This post is all about facts about calico cats!
Here are some interesting facts about calico cats:
Pattern Not a Breed
Calico cats are not a specific breed, but rather a coat pattern that can appear in many different breeds
Calico is a beautiful pattern that can be found on cats, but it is important to understand that calico is a pattern, not a breed. While many breeds of cats can have a calico coat, there are some breeds that are more commonly seen with this pattern.
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Calico cats are a tri-color breed of cats known for their distinct orange, black, and white patterns. The appeal of these cats has long been associated with good luck and many cultures believe them to be special cats. But the truth is that their patterns are determined by their genetics.
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Facts About Calico Cats: Genetics
The tri-color pattern of a calico cat is a result of a genetic mutation that causes some of the cat’s cells to express black or orange fur, but not both.
Facts about calico cats include their signature pattern; which is actually from a combination of multiple genes, which is why their coats feature such an eye-catching combination of colors. The orange and black fur typically form a patchy pattern, and the white fur is usually seen in the chest and legs. This is why they are often referred to as tricolor cats, and why they are so beloved by cat owners around the world.
Gender Specific
Because calico cats require two X chromosomes to display their unique coat pattern, the majority of calico cats are female.
The calico pattern is often seen on female cats, as the gene responsible for the pattern is sex-linked and is only found in female cats. This means that if a male cat has a calico pattern, it is a genetic mutation, and it is very rare.
Lucky Kitty Cat
Calico cats are often considered lucky in some cultures, and are sometimes referred to as “money cats” or “good luck cats.”
In Japanese culture, calico cats are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to their owners.
Facts About Calico Cats: Personality of a Calico Cat
Calico cats can have a wide range of personalities, but are often described as being independent, intelligent, and affectionate.
Calico Cat Lifespan
In addition to their unique coat pattern, calico cats are also known for their long lifespan, with some living for up to 20 years.
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Breed of Calicos
Facts about calico cats is tricky when discussing the breed of cat. Not all cat breeds are calico. And many calico cats fall into a cat breed type.
The most common breed of cat to have a calico coat is the Domestic Shorthair. This breed is known for its short fur, which can come in a variety of colors and patterns, including calico. Other breeds of cats that are often seen with a calico coat include the Persian, Manx, and British Shorthair.
In order for a calico cat to have the traditional calico pattern, the cat must have patches of three colors: black, white, and orange. The colors can be in any combination, but they must be present in order for it to be considered a calico pattern. The markings can be solid blocks of color or they can be mottled and vary in size.
Gift Ideas for Calico Cat Parents
If you need to purr-chase a gift for a calico cat parent or have been invited to a kitty cat party with calico cats, here are some ideas for your gift choosing!
Book: Counting on Calico
Although this is a children’s book, many kids are kitten and cat lovers, so what better gift idea than a children’s book. Counting on Calico is all about a mama cat, her seven kittens and their unique feline traits. Questions such as ‘why does a cat rub her face on me’ plus many more are answered. This book is full of facts about calico cats!
This highly rated book is found on Amazon.
Everything from socks to t-shirts make a wonderful gift for a cat lover who has or wants a calico cat. Their striking colors and patterns make the gifts light up with fun images. Here are a handful of cat lover gift ideas for you to browse!
Concluding Facts About Calico Cats Purr
No matter the breed, calico cats are stunning creatures with their beautiful and unique coloring. With their bright colors and playful personalities, calico cats are a wonderful addition to any family.
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