The distinctive characteristic of a calico cat is its colorful coat. Calicos have fur that is tricolored with orange/ginger and black. Calico cats almost always have a female counterpart. Did you know that there are many types of calico cats? Here we’ll tell you all about the different types of calicos including their origin, personality and appearance.
Quick Calico Cat Facts
What role does genetics play for Calico Cats
There are three types of calico cats. Each one is different. Calico is a sex-linked genetic, meaning it is located on the cat’s X chromosome. This is why calico cats are almost always female – because males only have one X chromosome, they can only be carrying one calico gene, and if that gene is recessive then the cat will be a calico. If a male cat carries two copies of the Calico gene, he will be a tortoiseshell.
Three types of Calico Cats
- The patchwork calicoThis is the most popular type of calico cat. The patchwork has black and brown fur with small patches of ginger or orange fur.
- The second kind of calico cat you will find is the a Tortoiseshell calico. This cat has black and brown fur with larger areas of orange or ginger fur.
- A Mosaic calicoThis is the third type of calico cat. With the signature black, white, and ginger fur – the difference is that each color is equally present throughout the coat.
The genetics of calico cats are very interesting and continually evolving; and there is still a lot that we don’t know about them!
History and origins of Calico Cats
It isn’t clear where calico cats originated. Most people believe they originated in Egypt. Others believe they originated in India from the Indian calico-patterned textiles. Regardless, it’s important to know that the term “calico” is There is no specific breed of cat Not a, but a coat pattern. They were first written about in Britain in the 16th century.
Calico Coat Patterns for Cat Breeds
Because “calico” refers to a coat pattern, a variety of cat breeds can be calico. The following are some of the most common breeds that have calico coat patterns:
Calico British Shorthair Cats
The British shorthaired calico cat is believed to be the original. However, some claim it was born in Egypt. They are medium-sized cats with long, thick coats. They are playful and friendly, but they can also be independent.
American Calico Cats
The American calico cat, a cousin to the British calico, is medium-sized and has a long coat. They are an active breed that makes a great pet for families with children. They are friendly and playful, but can be more demanding than the British Calico.
Japanese Bobtail Calico Cats
The Japanese calico cat is small and has a sleek, short coat. They are distinguished by their tri-colored fur and round faces. They are gentle and calm, making them great pets for people who live on their own.
Manx Calico Cats
The Manx calico cat has a tail. They are small to medium-sized cats and have a long coat. They are friendly and playful but can also be independent.
Maine Coon Calico Cats
Maine Coon calico cats make up one of the most beloved breeds of cats. They are well-known for their long hair and friendly personalities. Maine Coon cats are the largest domesticated cat breed. Maine Coons can grow up to 15 pounds in size, and males can often weigh as much as ten pounds. They are a popular choice if you want a calm, friendly cat.
Persian Calico Cats
The Persian calico cat is a popular choice and is well-known for its thick, long coat. The Persian calico cat has a distinctive round face and large eyes. They make great pets for those who live alone as they are calm and sweet-natured.
Calico Cats’ Health and Lifespan
Calico cats live between 13 and 17 years, which is approximately the same lifespan as other domestic cat breeds. They are generally healthy cats, but they can be susceptible for some health issues such as:
– Hypertrophic cardiomyopathyThis is a condition in which the heart muscle grows in size. If untreated, it can lead in the end to cardiac failure. This is most common in male calicos.
– Hip dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint isn’t fully developed, resulting in arthritic and painful legs.
– Polycystic kidney disease: A condition where the cysts build up in the kidneys. It can lead to kidney failure and even death.
You can manage most of these health problems if they are caught early. But it is important that you are aware of them so you can keep an eye on your calico cat. Calico cats can live long, healthy lives if they are checked by their vet regularly.
Are you AllFemale Calico Cats
While it’s true that most calico cats are female, male calicos do exist. Although they are less common than females, male calicos are still quite common. Male calicos usually have more orange fur and less patchy coats than females. Male calicos are also larger than females.
Male calico cats are as healthy as females, but they are more susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Male calicos must be groomed frequently and monitored for any signs or symptoms of heart disease.
Calico Cat’s Personality
Calico cats are known for being friendly and outgoing. Calico cats love being around people and are always eager for attention. They are very playful and enjoy playing fetch or chasing toys. They make great companions and are great for families with kids.
These cats can be demanding and may need more care than other cat breeds. Calico cats can be wonderful pets if they are loved and cared for well.
What is a Dilute Calico and how does it work?
Although dilute calicos come in many colors, they all share one thing: their orange and black patches are much paler that regular calicos. Their coat is not a mix of orange, white, and black. They are usually gray, white, and peach. This gives them a particularly delicate look that’s hard to resist.
Dilute tortoiseshell cat are also available. Instead of black and orange fur, their fur color is “diluted” and they have a combination of gray and peach-colored fur.
Tortoiseshell Cats and Calico Cats
People often mistake tortoiseshell cats for calico cats. Although tortoiseshell cats have a similar color scheme to calico cats’, there is one important difference. Torties don’t have white fur. They only have black, orange, gray and peach (a dilute tortie). Calicos, on the other hand, have three colors. White is the distinguishing factor.
There are a few key personality differences between calico cats and tortoiseshell “tortie” cats. Calico cats are more social and outgoing than torties. Torties are often said to have a fierce independent streak and some extra sass – called “tortitude.” Calicos are often more vocal than torties and can be very chatty with their humans. Calicos are active and always looking for something to do, which is why they are more active than their tortie counterparts.
So if you’re looking for a social cat who loves to explore and chat up her humans, a calico may be the perfect choice for you! Torties make great pets too (I have one) but if you’re looking for a little less “sass” in your feline friend’s personality, calico cats may be a better choice.
What is Tortitude?
What is tortitude? Tortitude is a unique combination of personality characteristics that are only found in tortoiseshell cat tortoiseshells. These include being independent, assertive, and spunky. Torties have a strong will and are not afraid to take on the world. They can be stubborn and determined to get what you want.
If you’re looking for a feline friend who is independent and spunky, a tortie may be the perfect cat for you. Tortitude can sometimes be challenging, but it’s also part of what makes torties so special. If you’re up for the challenge, a tortoiseshell cat may be the perfect pet for you!
Calicos make great companions and get along well with children. Calicos are distinguished by their unique tri-colored coat, which is made up of a variety colors and patterns. Consider adopting a calico cat from your local animal shelter if you’re searching for a new furry companion.