What is the color of a common cat called? - briefly
The color of a common cat is typically referred to as "tabby." This term encompasses a variety of patterns, including stripes, spots, and swirls, which are characteristic of many domestic cats.
What is the color of a common cat called? - in detail
The coloration of a common cat, often referred to as a domestic cat, can vary widely due to the extensive breeding and natural genetic diversity. However, there are several colors and patterns that are frequently observed and recognized in these felines. Understanding these colors and patterns can provide insight into the genetic makeup and breeding history of the cat.
One of the most common colors seen in domestic cats is black. Black cats are characterized by their solid black fur, which can sometimes have a slight brown or blue tint under certain lighting conditions. This color is the result of a dominant gene that produces high levels of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark coloring.
Another prevalent color is white. White cats have fur that is completely devoid of pigment, giving them a pure white appearance. This coloration is due to a recessive gene that inhibits the production of melanin. White cats can have blue, green, gold, or even heterochromatic (two different colored) eyes.
Gray, often referred to as blue in cat terminology, is another common color. Gray cats have a dilute black gene, which results in a lighter, grayish hue. This color can range from a light silver to a deep charcoal gray. The eyes of gray cats can vary but are often green or gold.
Tortoiseshell cats exhibit a unique pattern of coloration, typically a mix of black and red (orange) patches. This pattern is the result of X-chromosome inactivation, where one X chromosome is active in some cells and the other in others, leading to a mosaic of colors. Tortoiseshell cats are almost always female, as males typically have only one X chromosome.
Tabby patterns are also very common among domestic cats. These patterns include stripes, spots, swirls, and ticks, and can appear in various colors such as brown, gray, and red. The tabby pattern is determined by the agouti gene, which controls the distribution of pigment in the fur.
Calico cats are similar to tortoiseshells but include white patches in addition to the black and red colors. Like tortoiseshells, calico cats are almost always female due to the same genetic mechanism involving X-chromosome inactivation.
Bicolor and tricolor patterns are also frequently seen. Bicolor cats have two distinct colors, often white combined with another color like black, gray, or red. Tricolor cats, on the other hand, have three colors, typically white, black, and red.
In summary, the coloration of a common cat can be quite diverse, ranging from solid colors like black, white, and gray to complex patterns like tortoiseshell, tabby, and calico. Each color and pattern is the result of specific genetic factors that determine the distribution and type of pigment in the cat's fur. Understanding these genetic influences can help in identifying and appreciating the unique characteristics of domestic cats.