What is the name of a tiger-striped cat? - briefly
A tiger-striped cat is commonly referred to as a tabby cat, characterized by its distinctive striped, mottled, or swirled coat pattern.
What is the name of a tiger-striped cat? - in detail
A tiger-striped cat is commonly referred to as a "tabby cat." The term "tabby" describes a specific coat pattern rather than a breed, and it is one of the most recognizable and widespread patterns in domestic cats. The tiger-striped pattern, also known as the mackerel tabby pattern, features narrow, vertical stripes that run parallel along the cat's body, resembling the stripes of a tiger. These stripes are typically darker than the base coat color, which can range from gray and brown to orange or cream. The mackerel tabby pattern is characterized by a distinctive "M" shape on the forehead, which is a hallmark of tabby cats. Other tabby patterns include classic (swirled or marbled), spotted, and ticked, but the tiger-striped mackerel tabby is the most common and closely associated with wild feline markings. The tabby pattern is believed to have evolved as a form of camouflage in the wild, helping cats blend into their surroundings. While the term "tabby" is widely used, the tiger-striped appearance is often what people envision when they think of a typical domestic cat. This pattern is found in many breeds, including the American Shorthair, Maine Coon, and Domestic Shorthair, as well as in mixed-breed cats. The genetics behind the tabby pattern involve the agouti gene, which controls the distribution of pigment in the hair shaft, resulting in the characteristic banding and striping. Whether in a purebred or a mixed-breed cat, the tiger-striped tabby remains a beloved and iconic representation of feline beauty and elegance.