Calico Cats

Calico cats are arguably some of the most beautiful, yet common felines in the world. Many different color patterns may be found in calico cats.

If a dictionary is consulted, calico means "a cotton cloth with a bright printed pattern." Another meaning is "an animal with a blotched coat."

There is much argument in the pet world regarding the word "calico," as some say it is a breed while others say it only refers to the cat's color pattern.

That's why the calico cat is given this name. As you can see, there are proponents on both sides of this argument.

Scientifically speaking, calico is a color pattern found on a numerous breeds of cats, and it is not a breed within itself. So, you can't really say, "Hey, I have a calico cat." It would be more correct to say, "Hey, I have a cat with a calico pattern." From a scientific perspective, this would be technically correct. But, then again, speaking this way, would just be silly.

Basically, calico cats have red/orange or black and white tri-color patterns. It can also be a weak combination of blue/gray, cream and white. You may also notice that some calico cats may have an absence of the shade of white. These calico cats are called torties or tortoise shells, or blue-creams.

Variations among these types of calico cats are often noticed. Calico cats with less white in their patterns of colors are called "tortie and white" instead of calling them Calico. And those kitties having more white based colors on their back and some spatial colors of black and red/orange are called "high white" calico cats. Additionally, cats with small amounts of patches seen on the head, tail or on the body with a large base of white all over her body are called "van" calico cats.

There are actually 16 breeds of calico cats. And, among these breeds are some of the most beautiful and famous ones. There is the Large Maine Coon calico, or a Persian calico cat along with its flowing fluffy coat, or a Scottish fold complete with the ever so popular turned down ears..

Most calico cats are females. For some knotty twist in nature and genetic reasons, it will take a two X chromosomes in the conception for a kitty to become a calico.

A male would be required to possess two X and a Y chromosome in order to become a calico cat, and this only happens in rare occurrences. Thus for every 3,000 calico cats, there will only be approximately one male to be found. In addition to this, the male Calico cats are usually sterile.

So, the next time you see a calico cat, and are in the presence of an expert in the area, you can safely say or ask what breed it may be without embarrassment. In fact, this will show off your new found knowledge about calico cats and awareness on the subject.