What color are kittens called in English? - briefly
In English, the color of kittens is described using specific terms. For example, a white kitten is referred to as "white," a black kitten as "black," and a kitten with patches of brown and black is called a "tortoiseshell".
What color are kittens called in English? - in detail
In English, the color of kittens is described using a variety of terms that specify their fur color and patterns. These descriptors are essential for breeders, pet owners, and veterinarians to communicate effectively about the physical characteristics of kittens. The terminology can be quite specific, often reflecting the nuances of the kitten's coat.
The most basic colors include black, white, gray, and brown. However, the language of feline coloration goes beyond these simple terms. For instance, a kitten with a mix of white and another color might be described as bi-color. If the white is predominantly on the chest and paws, it is often referred to as a "Van" pattern, named after the famous Turkish Van cat. Tricolor kittens, which have three colors, are commonly seen in calico and tortoiseshell patterns. Calico kittens typically have white, orange, and black patches, while tortoiseshells have a mix of black and orange without the white.
Patterned coats add another layer of complexity. Tabby kittens, for example, have distinctive "M" shaped markings on their foreheads and striped or spotted patterns on their bodies. There are several types of tabby patterns, including classic, mackerel, spotted, and ticked. The classic tabby has swirling patterns, while the mackerel tabby has narrow stripes running parallel to each other. Spotted tabbies have distinct spots, and ticked tabbies have agouti hairs that give a salt-and-pepper appearance. Another common pattern is the point pattern, where the extremities (ears, paws, tail, and face) are a different color from the body. This is characteristic of Siamese and other pointed breeds.
Dilution genes can further modify these base colors, creating lighter shades. For example, a black kitten with a dilution gene might appear blue (gray), while an orange kitten with the same gene might look cream. Similarly, a red kitten with a dilution gene will appear cinnamon, and a cream kitten with the same gene will look fawn.
Silver and smoke are additional terms used to describe kittens with a lighter undercoat and darker guard hairs. Silver tabbies have a silver undercoat with darker tabby markings, while smoke kittens have a solid-colored undercoat with a lighter underlayer that shows when the fur is moved.
Understanding these terms is crucial for accurately describing and identifying kittens. Breed standards often specify acceptable colors and patterns, and knowing the terminology helps in maintaining the purity and quality of breeds. Additionally, these descriptors are useful in veterinary care, where accurate identification of a kitten's coat can aid in diagnosis and treatment of genetic conditions related to coat color.