Tabby vs Calico Cats: Key Differences Explained

Tabby and calico cats are beloved for their beautiful, unique coats, but many people wonder what really sets their appearances apart. Both tabby and calico cats are defined by their distinctive coat patterns rather than breed, making them fascinating examples of feline colour genetics.

Understanding the Tabby Cat

Tabby cats are recognised by their well-known striped, swirled, or spotted patterns. A distinctive feature often seen on their foreheads is an 'M' shaped marking. There are four main tabby patterns:

• Mackerel – thin, parallel stripes running down the sides (the most common pattern)
• Classic – thick, dark swirls on a lighter background resembling a marble effect
• Spotted – spots instead of stripes, often appearing on breeds like the Bengal
• Ticked – a mix of dark and light fur evenly distributed, giving a flecked or salt-and-pepper look

Tabbies come in a variety of colours including cream, brown, ginger, silver, and blue. The pattern appears across many breeds, and both male and female cats can display tabby markings.

Exploring the Calico Cat

Calico cats sport a tri-coloured coat featuring white, black, and orange patches. The amount of white varies, influencing whether a cat is classed strictly as calico or sometimes considered a tortoiseshell with white. Calicos do not have the striped or swirled tabby patterns and lack the "M" forehead marking.

Genetically, calico cats are nearly always female because their colouring depends on two X chromosomes. Rare male calicos usually have genetic abnormalities and are typically sterile.

Calico coat colours can also appear diluted, resulting in softer blue, cream, and white patches, giving a washed-out appearance. While mostly seen in domestic shorthairs or moggies, breed standards accept tri-colouring in some pedigrees like the Persian and Manx, adding to their charm.

Other Related Patterns: Tortoiseshell and Torbies

Tortoiseshell, or "Tortie" cats, combine black and orange fur without white patches. Like calicos, tortoiseshells are generally female for the same genetic reasons. The coat is often mottled or brindled.

Some cats showcase traits of both tabby and tortoiseshell known as torbies or calibys. These cats have the tri-colour or tortie pattern with tabby stripes or spots mixed in, creating a striking effect.

White Spotting Patterns in Tabby and Tortoiseshell Cats

Both tabby and tortoiseshell cats may have various amounts of white fur added and have specific terms for the locations of these white patches:

• Mitted: White paws
• Locket: White spot on chest
• Buttons: White spots on the tummy
• Bicolour: Half white coat combined with colour patches
• Harlequin: Mostly white coat with patches of colour
• Van: White body with colour only on head and tail, as seen in the Turkish Van breed

Responsible Cat Ownership and Ethical Breeding

Whether choosing a tabby or calico cat, it's essential to focus on responsible ownership. Look for healthy, well-socialised kittens from reputable breeders or consider adoption from shelters and rescues to give cats a loving home.

Remember that coat patterns do not define temperament or health. Provide regular vet check-ups, balanced nutrition, and safe environments to keep your feline friend happy and healthy.

Summary

In essence, tabby cats are best known for their striped or spotted patterns and signature 'M' forehead marking, while calico cats are recognised by their tri-coloured coats of white, black, and orange patches. Both are coat patterns and not specific breeds, offering a variety of appearances across many cat breeds.

Understanding these differences helps cat lovers appreciate the beauty and genetics behind these beloved feline companions.