Their multicoloured looks may be the first thing that springs to mind, but these felines are about so much more than their tortoiseshell fur. Here are some of the most fascinating facts about tortoiseshell cats.
Anyone who has ever had a tortoiseshell cat in their life knows that these felines are something special. Torties, as they are lovingly called by their fans, rock their two-toned coats like no other kitten. But their looks are only the beginning of what makes tortoiseshell cats such unique and delightful companions.
- 😸 The secret is in their genes. These stylish felines have not one, but two co-dominant colour genes that work together to create the amazing patterns of colours we know and love.
- 🙀 Although torties and their instantly recognisable multicoloured fur are in a class of their own, there is no such thing as a tortoiseshell cat breed.
- 😽 Almost all tortoiseshell cats are females.
- 🐱👤 Get to know a feisty tortoiseshell cat well enough and you will discover what tortitude is all about. The term tortitude was coined to describe the torties sassy, strong-willed personality. And indeed, anecdotally,there seems to be a lot of attitude that comes with their beautiful coats.
- 🐱🏍 Torties have left their mark on many folklore tales around the world. Whether it is their ability to bring money, love,good luck or a glimpse into the future thanks to their supposedly great psychic skills, tortoiseshell cats have been the star of many legends and superstitions.