The calico cat, also known as the tri-color cat or, brindle, tortoiseshell and white cat, has a long and fascinating history. The calico coat pattern is not specific to any one breed of cat, but rather refers to a particular combination of colors and patterns.
It is believed that the calico coat pattern first appeared in cats in ancient Egypt, where cats were highly regarded and often depicted in artwork. Calico cats were considered good luck and were often kept as pets by royalty and wealthy families.
In Japanese folklore, calico cats are believed to bring good fortune and wealth to their owners. They are often depicted in art and literature, and there is even a famous Japanese cat figurine called the Maneki-neko, or “beckoning cat,” which is often depicted as a calico cat.
During the Salem witch trials in the late 17th century in colonial America, calico cats were sometimes believed to be the familiars of witches and were killed along with their owners. However, in other parts of the world, calico cats were considered to bring good luck and were often kept on ships to ward off bad luck at sea.
In the modern era, calico cats are popular pets and are beloved for their unique and beautiful coat pattern. In the United States, calico cats have even been designated as the official state cat of Maryland.
Interestingly, most calico cats are female, as the calico coat pattern is linked to the X chromosome. Male calico cats do exist, but they are quite rare and typically sterile.
9 Fun Facts About Calico Cats
Calico cats are not a specific breed, but rather a coat pattern that can appear in many different breeds of cats.
Calico cats are sometimes called tortoiseshell and white cats, or simply “torties.”
The calico coat pattern is characterized by patches of white, black, and orange (or red) fur.
Calico cats are often associated with good luck and fortune in many cultures around the world.
In Japan, calico cats are known as “Mike neko,” which means “three-colored cat.”
Calico cats can have a variety of personality traits, but they are often described as independent and sassy.
Calico cats have been featured in many works of art and literature, including the children’s book “The Cat in the Hat” by Dr. Seuss.
Because the calico coat pattern is linked to the X chromosome, calico cats are always female in some cat breeds, such as the British Shorthair and the Persian.
The world’s oldest cat on record was a calico cat named Creme Puff, who lived to be 38 years and 3 days old.
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