Tabby cats: features, breeds, choice and care

Striped color is a fairly common color among domestic cats. The second name for the striped color is tabby. Domestic animals inherited a similar color from their wild ancestor - a forest cat. In nature, the striped color is quite important - it helps to hide among the grass and leaves, to become invisible to predators.

Today, a huge number of cat breeds have a striped color. What are the features of striped animals, what types of striped pets exist, how to choose and how to properly care for them - we will talk about this and much more in our article.

Tabby cats become favorites of many due to their spectacular color. The fur with brightly marked stripes attracts the attention of others and becomes the main distinguishing feature of the pet. There are several options for striped color, each of which has its own special characteristics.... Let's consider them in more detail.

This type of striped color in domestic cats is characterized by the presence of narrow stripes that are located along the pet's spine. It is important to note that usually the stripe in the center has a darker shade, and the stripes on the sides are noticeably lighter. In addition, such animals have a pattern on the sides of the body.

A distinctive characteristic of this striped color is continuous stripes. In addition, by themselves, they are rather narrow and may have a slight smooth bend.... Often on the paws and tails of striped animals that have a mackerel color, you can see small but clearly pronounced marks. Another characteristic of pets is the presence of dark stripes that run from the outer corners of the eyes to the cheeks.

This option is the brightest and most colorful among all existing ones. The variety got its name due to the fact that the stripes that pass along the body of the cat are constantly interrupted. In this regard, the feeling may be created that these are not stripes at all, but ordinary spots.

At the same time, despite some differences in individual species, striped cats have certain common features that distinguish them from all other fluffy pets. Such signs are usually distinguished:

• a spot in the shape of the letter "M" located on the forehead of a pet (the outline of the picture, as well as its color and size may vary);
• two types of hair that make up the wool (one of them is the background, and with the help of the other a direct pattern is drawn);
• there is a pattern in the form of rings on the chest (this pattern may resemble necklaces).

The thing is that a special gene is responsible for such a coat color, which can manifest itself in any animal. In addition, scientists have found out a rather curious fact: the gene responsible for striping also provides a good and stable immune system.

Another important sign is that tabby cats are endowed with a fairly developed intelligence and have pronounced mental abilities. A similar fact will be useful in the training process of the cat (for example, when you will train the pet to the litter box).

In addition, veterinarians and scientists note that tabby cats are quite active animals, which (among other things) have a fairly developed hunting instinct. That is why your pets can bring you rats, mice and other animals they catch.

Easy and quick adaptation to new environmental conditions, as well as the ability to navigate well in unfamiliar terrain, also distinguish tabby cats from other brethren. But the fact is also noted that animals live quite a long time.

As for the character and behavior of cats, striped pets are distinguished by a rather calm, docile and balanced disposition. They are resistant to a variety of external stresses and endure unfavorable external influences.

Interesting fact. In nature, there are no two exactly alike tabby cats. All pets have a unique color and pattern, unlike any other. Thus, the color of tabby cats (like fingerprints in humans) is an individual feature, thanks to which you can distinguish one animal from another.

As mentioned above, the striped color is typical not only for purebred, but also for ordinary yard cats. Nevertheless, scientists have identified several main breeds of pets, which are characterized by a striped color:

• British Shorthair - for such cats, the most typical color is mackerel in a gray shade;
• scottish - Tabby is considered the most beautiful color of cats;
• siberian - these domestic animals with long hair are characterized by striped-spotted coloration;
• Maine Coon - most often Maine Coons are brown;
• Norwegian forest - the cat is rather large, and its striped coat is water-repellent;
• asian tabby cat - is smooth-haired;
• american bobtail - the coat can be either short or long;
• kurilian bobtail - you can often see red and gray tabby cats;
• american curl - the wool has a pleasant silky texture;
• pixiebob - stripes on wool are most often colored in dark shades.

If by their appearance you are attracted to striped cats, then you should pay special attention to the choice of a pet. You can adopt a yard tabby kitten or purchase a pedigree animal. One way or another, but the color is not the main characteristic of the pet. In addition to appearance, pay attention to the cat's behavior and character, as well as not his habits.

So, first of all, it should be noted that it is impossible to predict the character and behavioral patterns of a yard cat. Such an animal can be a cross between several breeds, so it is quite difficult to vouch for its physiological and psychological characteristics. On the other hand, an experienced owner can always tame and train even the most wild animal, so in this case, the choice is still yours.

With regard to pedigree tabby cats, depending on the specific breed, several factors should be taken into account.

• Striped british They are distinguished by a rather aristocratic and calm, but sometimes arrogant character. On the other hand, these animals easily endure loneliness, so if you often travel or go on business trips, then such a pet is the best choice for you.
• Scottish cats agreeable and playful. Plus, they get along easily with other pets, so you can get them even if you already have pets in your house.
• Siberian striped cats have a rather tough disposition - they do not like strangers and are jealous of their territory, guarding it. Another distinctive feature of the breed is its high intellectual abilities.
• Maine Coons active and curious. They cannot stand the caresses of the owners, so they will not sit in your arms and ask them to stroke them.
• Norwegian forest animals with a striped color are quite popular among livestock breeders. One of the most important advantages of the breed is its unpretentious care.
• Asian tabby train well. They often become friends with young children and the elderly.
• American bobtail - this is a friendly animal that does not tolerate loneliness, loves to be constantly in the company of its owners. In addition, it is necessary to walk with representatives of this breed in the fresh air, as they like active rest.
• Kurilian Bobtail equipped by nature with hunting and fishing abilities. They are loyal to one master.
• American curl well trained. This breed is distinguished by complaisance and calmness, balanced and unobtrusive character.
• Pixiebob Is a calm and affectionate breed.

Thus, depending on your character, personal preferences and lifestyle, you can choose an animal that suits you specifically. In addition, consider the wishes of your household. If children live with you in an apartment or in a house, then give preference to the most flexible and calm breeds of tabby cats.

In general, striped cats need the same grooming measures as pets of any other color. So, first of all, the care and maintenance of an animal should be based on the characteristics of a particular breed. However, there are general rules that must be followed if you are the owner of a tabby cat of any breed and variety.

First you need to take care of arranging a place for a cat. Today, on the zoological market, you can find a variety of sunbeds on sale, which will become an excellent place for an animal to rest. If you wish, you can make a similar lounger yourself. In addition, the cat necessarily needs bowls of food and water.The diet and water balance of a particular animal depends on its breed. Another necessary detail is a tray that will act as a toilet. From the very first days, train your animal to the litter box to avoid a variety of unpleasant situations. And also with age, the pet will need a special device with which he can sharpen his claws.

Hygiene procedures are also an obligatory care measure. From time to time cats need to be bathed. This should be done in warm water and using only those detergents that are designed specifically for cats (they can be purchased at any zoological store). Also, remember to brush your cat's hair regularly, especially for breeds that have long hair. And also it is necessary to regularly trim the claws of the animal.

Do not forget about preventive and medical measures. So, first, take care of vaccinations. And also remember about regular treatment of the cat from worms, fleas and other harmful microorganisms. At least once every six months, show the animal to the veterinarian, and at the first manifestations of the disease, immediately go to the veterinary clinic, and in no case self-medicate.

Also, consider the behavioral characteristics of the breed. For example, some species need outdoor walks (in this case, you need to get a leash and make a walking schedule), other animals, on the contrary, love peace and quiet, so you should not constantly try to pick them up or play with them.

Tabby cats are quite popular pets. A distinctive feature of animals with such a color is stable immunity, because the striping and quality of immunity is controlled by the same gene. The choice of a particular striped animal that will become a full-fledged member of your family should depend on a wide variety of factors: appearance, color option, breed, and so on. But remember that by choosing an animal, settling it in your house, you assume full responsibility for its life and health, so try to follow all care recommendations and maintenance instructions. In this case, you will provide the animal with a long, healthy and active life, and you yourself will get a faithful and reliable friend.

For the behavior, maintenance and care of the striped Briton, see below.