What is the name of the tabby coat pattern in cats? - briefly
The tabby coat pattern in cats is commonly referred to as "mackerel tabby," characterized by narrow, vertical stripes resembling fishbones. Other variations include classic, spotted, and ticked tabby patterns.
What is the name of the tabby coat pattern in cats? - in detail
The tabby coat pattern in cats is one of the most common and recognizable feline coat types, characterized by its distinctive markings and patterns. The name of this pattern is simply referred to as "tabby," but it encompasses several specific variations, each with unique characteristics. The classic tabby, also known as the blotched tabby, features bold, swirling patterns on the sides, often resembling a marbled or bullseye effect. The mackerel tabby, named for its resemblance to fish bones, displays narrow, parallel stripes running vertically down the cat’s body. The spotted tabby is marked by distinct spots of varying sizes, which can be round, oval, or rosette-shaped. Lastly, the ticked tabby, sometimes called the agouti tabby, lacks the traditional stripes or spots but instead exhibits a salt-and-pepper appearance due to each hair being banded with multiple colors, giving a shimmering effect. All tabby patterns share common traits such as the distinctive "M" shape on the forehead, eyeliner-like markings around the eyes, and stripes or bands on the legs and tail. These patterns are the result of the agouti gene, which controls the distribution of pigment in the hair shaft, creating the unique and beautiful designs seen in tabby cats.