Cats are those pets that have been living next to humans for centuries. Today there are a huge number of different breeds and colors, among which the tabby cat is most often found.
Tabby cats
Not everyone knows that a tabby cat is not a special breed. This coat color is called tabby and is peculiar to many representatives of the cat family. This figure contains some of the essential elements that all tabby cats have, but two completely identical combinations of these intricate stripes, spots, and lines do not exist in nature.
One of the obligatory differences of such cats is a mark on the forehead, similar to the letter M. A striped cat is found among many cat breeds.
The color of the tabby came to modern cats from their wild ancestors, for whom he served as a disguise, making the predator invisible in the grass and among the foliage during the hunt.
Varieties of tabby cats
There are only 4 species of cats that have small genetic differences.
- The most common is mackerel cat . The narrow stripes on its back gently bend and are almost continuous. There are dark bars on the legs and tail, and dark lines run through the cheeks to the corners of the eyes.
- Spotted tabby cat . Unlike mackerel, in this type of cat the stripes are broken and look more like spots. Such a pattern is characteristic of the Maine Coon breed, the Ocicat, the Egyptian Mau.
- The marked sample is cats that have wool with distinctive color groups (salt-and-pepper).
- The classic look is a striped cat, the breed of which can be any, but the body marking has a circulating pattern on the sides of the animal from dark brown, black, and sometimes gray spots. 3 thin strips stretch along the spine, the central of which has the darkest color.
Features of striped cats
It is believed that animals with a tabby color have a higher resistance to disease and excellent health. This is their huge advantage over breeding brethren. Studies have shown that the gene responsible for striped color is directly related to immunity. It is no coincidence that among the feline centenarians the majority of representatives of striped breeds.
The nature of such cats also has its own characteristics. The main feature of these cats is balance, the lack of moods. They are able to very freely navigate in unfamiliar areas. By its nature, the tabby cat is a born hunter. Therefore, it is difficult to compete with other types of cats in agility, strength and activity . These animals, as a rule, are very independent and independent. They are curious, like to rule and are able to defend their own opinions.
At the same time, tabby cats are affectionate for home and owner. They are happy to sit on their hands, affectionate and calm, do not spend their energy unnecessarily.
Features of red color
The red tabby cat has long been endowed with special properties. It is believed that this is a real protector from troubles and diseases. There was a belief that if such a cat was next to the patient, he would rather recover. Many are sure that the red color symbolizes joy, fun and even wealth.
Red cats are more impudent and cunning, often attract attention. Such pets with a mischievous and playful character will never get bored and will be able to dispel even the worst of moods.
Popularity
In many literary works, folk tales, a cat is a common character. And almost always tabby. The gray striped cat is the hero of a lullaby, fairy tales “Silver Hoof”, “Puss in Boots”, “Tales of the Cat Murlyki”.
There is a legend about the origin of the letter M, located on the forehead of striped cats. When Jesus was born, a striped cat lying next to him warmed him with his warmth. Mother of God Mary stroked her gratefully on the head, which is why the first letter of her name appeared on this spot.
Today, tiger cats are very fond of using advertisers in their work, creating the image of a healthy cheerful animal.
Interestingly, striped color occurs only in representatives of the cat family. In other animals, it is not found anywhere in the world. Striped cats, according to popular beliefs, are able to charge with energy, bring good luck and are considered a symbol of the hearth.