What breed is a white tabby cat? - briefly
A white tabby cat is not a specific breed but rather a coat pattern that can appear in various breeds, such as the Domestic Shorthair or Maine Coon.
What breed is a white tabby cat? - in detail
A white tabby cat is not a specific breed but rather a description of a cat’s coat color and pattern. Tabby refers to a distinctive fur pattern characterized by stripes, swirls, or spots, often accompanied by an "M" marking on the forehead. The term "white tabby" typically describes a cat with a predominantly white coat combined with tabby markings, which can appear on the head, tail, or patches of the body. This pattern can be found in many cat breeds, including Domestic Shorthairs, Maine Coons, American Shorthairs, and others. The white coloration is caused by the presence of the white spotting gene or the dominant white gene, which masks other colors or patterns in certain areas of the coat. While the tabby pattern is genetically dominant and common across various breeds, the combination with white fur creates a visually striking appearance. It’s essential to note that breed identification goes beyond coat color and pattern, involving factors such as body structure, facial features, and lineage. If you’re curious about a specific cat’s breed, genetic testing or consultation with a veterinarian or breeder can provide more accurate information.