Naughty Torties
Tortoiseshell cats are named for their distinctive colouring – a combination of patches of black, brown, amber, red, cinnamon and chocolate. The size of the patches varies from a fine speckled pattern to large areas of color. The term “tortoiseshell” is used for cats with brindled coats that have few or no white markings. Cats of this coloring with larger areas of white fur are called calicos.
Tortoiseshell cats are almost exclusively female. Tortoiseshell and calico coats are the result of the interaction between genetic and developmental factors. The occasional and very rare male tortoiseshell cat is the result of a genetic mutation. The odds on this happening are 1 in 400,000. We did in fact have a male tortoiseshell kitten at Swansea Cats Protection a few years ago. When taken to the vet for a health check the vet couldn’t believe his eyes and went to get a more senior vet to confirm that it was indeed a male tortie! Male tortoiseshells are always infertile.
In addition to their distinctive colouring, torties also have a reputation for unique personalities, sometimes referred to as “tortitude.” They tend to be strong-willed, a bit hot-tempered, and they can be very possessive of their human. Other words used to describe torties are fiercely independent, feisty and unpredictable. They’re usually very talkative and make their presence and needs known with anything from a hiss to a meow to a strong purr. These traits are stronger in tortoiseshell cats than in calicos – it seems as though these traits are somewhat diluted with the addition of more white to the color scheme.
