The Tortoiseshell cat gets its name from its intricate color pattern. This cat is named because the color likeness to a once-popular manufacturing material called tortoiseshell. It can be found in mosaic or chimera, regular or dilute combinations. The tortoiseshell cat is not a breed because the term tortoiseshell, or “tortie” as their fans affectionately dubbed them, refers to the coat.
Tortoiseshells are a fascinating mix of black and brown with flecks of orange, orange, and red. But it isn’t simply their coats that are intricate. The tortie is said to be the keeper of fiery “tortitude,” but is this true? We’ll leave it up to you to decide.
This legendary bravery is just one of many legends surrounding these magnificent felines.
The tortoiseshell cat has a history as complicated as its coats, dating back to the Celts and the Japanese. One rumor, however, is false: some torties are male.
Personality
Calico and tortoiseshell cats are said to be more feisty than other fur colors, and some research seems to back this up. The feline disposition, like the torti’s coat, is significantly more complicated.
The researchers were careful to stress out that there are numerous aspects that can contribute to a cat’s behavior, including breed and upbringing. Because tortoiseshell is not a breed, it is difficult to generalize their temperament. As a general rule, treat each cat as an individual and get to know them individually.
Even though studies show that torties have greater levels of attitude, many loyal tortie-loving cat parents believe these cats are actually awesome. Torties are described as extremely loyal to their parents, as well as being spontaneous and decisive. Torties are excellent conversationalists who are not afraid to tell their family what they require.
Finally, “tortitude” may or may not be a reality for this group. These cats’ personalities are as varied as their coats, whether they are sassy or quiet, sociable or watchful. Their everlasting devotion to their family is unparalleled, thus tortitude may be a little price to pay for their heartfelt honesty and individuality.
History
These cats are cloaked in mythology, rumors, and mystery. They are also known as money cats and are a recognized emblem of good fortune in many cultures around the world.
The uncommon male tortoiseshell brought the Ancient Celts riches. If one stayed the night, the homeowners were gifted with good fortune. Japanese fishermen also believed in the male tortie’s abilities, bringing them on board their ships to protect them from apparitions and storms.
Rumor has it that if you dream about one of these lovely ladies, love will strike…. So, good night.
Physical Attributes
BODY
A tortie cat has a one-in-three thousand chance of being male. This means that more than 99.9% of all tortoiseshell cats are female. The cat’s X chromosome is responsible for the orange and black coat coloration that is the foundation of a tortie’s coat. Because females have the XX chromosomal pattern, their two X’s can co-dominate and result in a tortie kitty. Males cannot be tortie because they have the XY chromosomes UNLESS they undergo a genetic mutation and get additional X, resulting in a XXY pattern. Torties are largely, but not entirely, females.
Because these cats come in a variety of breeds, their fur length and paw shape can vary substantially. The tortoiseshell fur has been seen on the Maine Coon, Cornish Rex, Persian, and Ragamuffin breeds. However, mixed-breed cats, including domestic short, medium, and long hairs, as well as tabbies—which are often referred to as torbies when their stripes or swirls are blended with the tortoiseshell color—wear this elegant coat.
Torties with larger regions of color are called “patched,” while those with interweaving colors are called “brindled.” The colors can alternatively be blended throughout the body (mosaic) or separated such that one side of the cat’s body is one color and the other is another. The division could also be between the face and the body.
The tortie’s weight and longevity also vary greatly. Tiffany Two, a California tortoiseshell cat, was crowned the world’s oldest living cat by Guinness World Records in 2015, at the age of 26.
Disclaimer
While the qualities listed below are common for this breed, cats are individuals with unique personalities and appearances. For more information about a specific pet, please contact the adoption group.
Wondering about Tortoiseshell? Check it out on our next post!
