Tortoiseshell vs Calico - Breed Comparison | MyCatBreeds

Tortoiseshell vs Calico - Breed ComparisonTortoiseshell is originated from United States but Calico is originated from Egypt. Both Tortoiseshell and Calico are of same weight. Tortoiseshell may live 4 years more than Calico. Both Tortoiseshell and Calico has same litter size. Tortoiseshell requires Moderate maintenance. But Calico requires Low maintenance

History

tortoiseshell - historyThe Tortoiseshell isn’t a cat breed but rather a coat coloring of cats. It just happens that most tortoiseshell cats are females.

Known as Torties, these cats always have a couple of colors such as red and black as well as some fawn.

Tortoiseshell cats with the tabby pattern are referred to as Torbie cats. Tortoiseshell markings appear in many different breeds.

calico - historyNobody can say with certainty where Calico cats originate from, but it is thought they they hail from Egypt, and that they later came to port cities in Spain, Italy and France.

Today these cats are found all over the world. Wherever these cats come from, they are 99.9% female and this is because of the cat’s unique chromosomal makeup. Most of the calico or tortoiseshell male cats are because of the chromosome abnormality.

The weird aspect with these amazing cats is because of their unique genetic makeup, and also because of the fact that the males are born sterile, these cats can’t be bred and they can emerge in different litters.

Since 2001 this cat has been Maryland's state cat. An interesting fact is that the Calico became the official cat of the state of Maryland because of its amazing colors of its fur which happen to be fairly similar to that of the Baltimore Oriole, the state bird.

Basic Information

Origin:
United States
Egypt
Weight Male:
3 - 7 kg
6 - 16 pounds
3 - 7 kg
6 - 16 pounds
Weight Female:
3 - 7 kg
6 - 16 pounds
3 - 7 kg
6 - 16 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 20 Years
12 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 6
2 - 6
Other Names:
Tortie
None
Colors Available:
black, fawn, tan and organge, Cream
White, black and orange
Coat:
Short to long haired
Long or short
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

tortoiseshell kitten - descriptionTortoiseshell cats are your regular-sized cats. They can be medium-sized to large and weigh anything between 3 and 7kg.

They come in different colors and patterns. The colors are essentially cream, fawn, black, tan, and orange. Tortoiseshell markings appear in all the different cat breeds.

Because the tortoiseshell cat is a color and not a cat breed as such they can be different sizes and shapes.

Temperament:

Tortoiseshell cats aren't a specific breed, but there are people that believe that just the color of the coat is indicative of the personality – feisty and lively.

People who have owned these cats say they have a sassy temperament and can even be just a wee bit aggressive sometimes with their strong-willed attitude.

calico kitten - descriptionCalico cats are known for their jaunty tri-colored coats with color such as white, black and orange. In fact, to be known as a Calico cat, these 3 colors need to be present, Calico isn’t a breed of cat as such, but is actually referring to the cat’s color variations.

Some of the most distinctive breeds of cars such a the Cornish Rex and Persians have these calico coats. One odd spec with these cats is that nearly all calico cats are female and this is because of the chromosomal makeup.

Size, coat texture, shade of coat, coat length and ear shapes can all vary with the type of calico cats you get so their weight can be anything from 3 to 7kg.

Temperament:

As mentioned, Calico cats aren’t a specific breed, and that is why it is actually difficult to describe the personality of a calico cat.

You’ll find certain calico cat owners describing their cat’s behavior but you won’t find any particular scientific studies of the cat’s personality. You could have a calm cat, one that is laid-back, a very vocal cat or a very active cat. In other words, these cats can be quiet, calm, excitable, friendly, shy, or mellow – their personality is formed from the way they are brought up and socialized.

Characteristics

tortoiseshell cat - characteristicsYour Tortoiseshell is a beautiful cat and fondly referred to as a Tortie. It has a coat similar to the coloring of a tortoise, but the temperament of the cat will rely much on your own personality and the lifestyle you provide him with.

They are fairly vocal, but because this cat isn't a breed but rather a coat color, nobody can say precisely how it will turn out in personality.

One thing is sure, if you offer your Tortoiseshell lots of love and care, you can be sure of a wonderful feline friend.

calico cat - characteristicsThe Calico is such an amazing type of cat and because it comes from so many cat breeds, the personality will vary, although having said that, there are a few characteristics that seem to be specifically attributed to the Calico cat.

One thing is for sure, these are intelligent, sweet, appealing, warm-hearted, loving cats that are good with children too. Perhaps in keeping with the quirky, jaunty coat, there is some quirkiness in the personality too, but that is precisely what makes these amazing cats the interesting characters they are.

To add to that, when you do research, you find that some have acted in bravey and saved their humans from harm in one way or the other.

Health Problems

tortoiseshell kittens - health problemsYour cat's health depends on good food. If your finances allow, choose a high-quality food. Check the label for the feeding guidelines.

Always remember that your cat's age - kittens, adults, and senior cats have different nutritional needs. Sick cats will require a different type of food. Watch your cat's weight because being overweight can bring on a host of illnesses such as diabetes.

A cat has to have access to fresh drinking water every day and night to remain healthy.

Ensuring your feline friend is exercised both mentally and physically is important for good health.

Speak to your vet about the vaccines your cat needs as well as flea prevention.

calico kittens - health problemsThe lifespan of the Calico cat be anything really and if you provide your calico with a wonderful home it will be able to reach 15 years of age.

Sometimes Klinefelteris Syndrome is a threat with this cat as a result of the XXY chromosomes. Their health is impacted because the disease can cause problems such as increased body fat and reduced bone mineral content.

Caring The Pet

tortoiseshell cats - caringCats are known to be independent but they still need your care and attention. Before you take a Tortoiseshell into your home, prepare for his arrival.

Make sure you have food and drinking bowls ready, a comfortable bed, a stylish cat collar and tag of identification, cat accessories such as a brush, toys, and some top-quality cat food.

If you work all day, maybe it would be a good idea to get 2 cats as some cats can get very lonely during the day, and adding a companion can be an excellent solution for his loneliness.

Always be in touch with the vet if you see that your cat isn’t behaving in his usual way.

Your cat will need to be taken for check-ups and also all the necessary cat vaccinations required to ward off deadly cat illnesses.

Provide your cat with a litter box and make sure you remove the cat feces every day.

Provide your cat with toys. Choose them carefully to keep your cat happy and amused. Buy a scratching post too as all cats want to scratch and you want to save your furniture from your cat using it to scratch on.

calico cats - caringGently brush the Calico’s fur from time to time to ensure the jaunty colored coat is always shiny and healthy. It helps with the removal of dead hair as well and the cat enjoys the attention.

Every cat requires vaccines to prevent him from getting the deadly cat viruses there are, and to keep the cat free from parasites.

If there are any warning signs that there’s something wrong with your Calico, get him to the vet immediately.

Your Calico kitten will need to receive 3 meals a day. As your cat matures, two smaller meals a day will be good for your cat. You’ll find both canned- and dry packaged foods and your cat will let you know which one he prefers.

Your adorable Calico may beg for treats in between but as a responsible pet owner, make sure you don’t allow your Calico to overeat as obesity brings its own set of health issues.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Tortoiseshell vs Tabby - Breed Comparison
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  5. Tortoiseshell vs Torby - Breed Comparison
  6. Tortoiseshell vs Abyssinian - Breed Comparison
  7. Tortoiseshell vs Aegean - Breed Comparison
  8. Tortoiseshell vs African Serval - Breed Comparison
  9. Tortoiseshell vs Chausie - Breed Comparison
  10. Tortoiseshell vs American Bobtail - Breed Comparison
  11. Tortoiseshell vs American Curl - Breed Comparison
  12. Tortoiseshell vs American Keuda - Breed Comparison
  13. Tortoiseshell vs American Longhair - Breed Comparison
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  20. Tortoiseshell vs Asian Semi-Longhair - Breed Comparison
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  26. Calico vs Abyssinian - Breed Comparison
  27. Calico vs Aegean - Breed Comparison
  28. Calico vs African Serval - Breed Comparison
  29. Calico vs Chausie - Breed Comparison
  30. Calico vs American Bobtail - Breed Comparison
  31. Calico vs American Curl - Breed Comparison
  32. Calico vs American Keuda - Breed Comparison
  33. Calico vs American Longhair - Breed Comparison
  34. Calico vs American Polydactyl - Breed Comparison
  35. Calico vs American Shorthair - Breed Comparison
  36. Calico vs American Wirehair - Breed Comparison
  37. Calico vs Applehead Siamese - Breed Comparison
  38. Calico vs Ashera - Breed Comparison
  39. Calico vs Asian - Breed Comparison
  40. Calico vs Asian Semi-Longhair - Breed Comparison
  41. Calico vs Australian Mist - Breed Comparison
  42. Calico vs Balinese - Breed Comparison
  43. Calico vs Bengal - Breed Comparison
  44. Calico vs Bicolor - Breed Comparison
  45. Calico vs Birman - Breed Comparison
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