Orange Felines Labeled as Yellow Cats are Actually Orange Tabby Cats in Disguise
In the world of domestic cats, one striking coat colour stands out - the warm, golden hues of orange tabbies. This distinctive colouring is not confined to a specific breed but is a trait seen across many felines.
The 'orange-yellow gene' is the key to this captivating coat. This gene produces a pigment called pheomelanin, which gives cats their red to orange shades[1][4]. However, it's important to note that female cats need two copies of the orange gene to be solid orange, making orange females less common[1].
The range of orange tabby coats can vary from pale cream to deep orange, and under warm lighting, yellowish hues may be observed[1][3]. Many orange tabbies exhibit very faint "ghost" stripes that become more noticeable under certain light[1].
Orange tabbies are known for their mackerel tabby pattern or classic tabby swirls, and they often have the telltale "M" marking on their foreheads[1].
Interestingly, certain cat breeds are more likely to carry this gene. The Maine Coon, British Shorthair, and American Shorthair are among the breeds that often display orange tabby patterns[2]. Maine Coons, with their silky coats, sometimes show a ticked tabby pattern, while British Shorthairs, with their plush coats, often have orange colouring[2]. American Shorthairs are friendly and adaptable cats commonly seen with tabby patterns, including orange variants[2].
The orange colour is sex-linked, and about 80% of orange tabby cats are male[1][2]. This is because the gene is on the X chromosome. Female orange tabbies require two X chromosomes with the orange gene to be solid orange[1]. In contrast, tortoiseshell cats, which have both orange and black patches, have one copy of the orange gene and one copy of the non-orange gene on each X chromosome[1].
Weekly brushing of the fur is recommended for orange/yellow cats, especially in long-haired breeds like the Maine Coon, to prevent mats[3]. Like all cats, orange/yellow cats need a healthy diet, regular vet checkups, and mental stimulation[3].
This article was created in conjunction with AI technology and fact-checked and edited by a website editor to ensure accuracy and clarity.
[1] https://www.catster.com/cat-behavior/orange-tabby-cat-facts [2] https://www.catster.com/cat-breeds/maine-coon-cat-breed [3] https://www.catster.com/cat-care/orange-tabby-cat-care [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5454906/
- The distinctive orange coat color of some domestic cats, such as Maine Coons, British Shorthairs, and American Shorthairs, is due to the 'orange-yellow gene' that produces the pigment pheomelanin.
- It's essential to provide a lifestyle that includes weekly grooming for long-haired breeds like Maine Coons to prevent mats in their fur, and ensure they maintain a healthy diet, regular vet checkups, and mental stimulation.
- In the world of technology and fact-checking, it's crucial to note that not all cats can exhibit the solid orange coat – female cats usually require two copies of the orange gene to be solid orange, making them less common compared to male orange tabby cats.
