Are Tortoiseshell Cats Calico?

Tortoiseshell and calico cats have one major difference - the presence of white in their coats. While both terms refer to multi-colored felines, they distinctively differ from each other.

Calico cats are often referred to as tortie-and-white, tricolor, torbie, or piebald cats. These cats typically feature large patches of white, orange, and black on their coats, with no two patterns alike. The term 'calico' does not refer to a specific breed but rather a description of a color pattern that can appear in various breeds and mixes.

In contrast, tortoiseshell cats have a reputation for having a distinct personality and feisty attitude, commonly referred to as 'tortitude.' They usually exhibit a brindle appearance, with their overall coloring consisting of deep orange and black tones. Torties are not a specific breed but rather a description of a color pattern that can appear in purebred and non-purebred domestic cats alike.

One rare phenomenon associated with tortoiseshell cats is the chimera coat, where one side of the body has a different color than the other. In some cases, 'dilute' tortoiseshell cats have lighter gray and orange tones instead of black and orange.

Interestingly, tortoiseshell cats are almost exclusively female, while male tortoiseshells are rare and usually sterile. This is because the genetics that create the tortoiseshell pattern are linked to the X chromosome, making it difficult for males to inherit the trait.

In conclusion, while both calico and tortoiseshell cats feature multi-colored coats, they distinctively differ from each other. Calicos typically have larger patches of white, orange, and black, whereas torties have a reputation for their strong personalities and brindle coloring.

Are tortoiseshell cats calico