![]() ![]() Since females have XX chromosomes, they have two possible coat color genes. Male cats possess XY chromosomes, so they only have one X controlling their coat color. Coat color is controlled by genes on the X chromosome, one for orange fur and one for black. Female cats, like female humans, carry a XX chromosome. Tortoiseshell and calico cats are almost universally female because the gene that produces the coat color is sex linked. This assumption tends to be based on observations rather than verifiable facts, but it exists nonetheless, to the point that several studies have confirmed its existence. While we wait for researchers to explore any possible genetic causes of the tortoiseshell cat’s unique personality, there is one possible option to consider.įemale cats are widely considered more independent and less affectionate than male kitties. Photo Credit: Light Hound Pictures, Shutterstock What Causes Tortitude? However, the results of this study, along with observations from those with a lot of experience handling cats, suggest that “tortitude” is probably real to a certain extent. No research has yet proven an actual genetic link between tortoiseshell coat color and personality. One to ponder is whether the owners’ interpretations of their pets’ behavior were inadvertently influenced by the general reputation of tortoiseshell cats. Obviously, this study was based only on owner observations of a limited pool of cats, so it does come with continued questions. Gray-and-white and black-and-white cats were also slightly more likely to behave this way. Specifically, the study found that these kitties were more likely to swat, hiss, chase, scratch, or bite during interactions with humans. The results of the survey support the idea that torties and similarly-colored calico cats do display challenging and aggressive behaviors more often than many other cat colors. The study was based on the results of a survey of over 1,200 cat owners who weren’t told what the research was for but were asked to answer questions about their cat’s interactions with humans and describe their personalities. In 2016, researchers at the University of California-Davis vet school published a study about cat coat color and personality. We all know what they say about assumptions, so before we judge a whole coat color of a cat, let’s find out if there’s any evidence to support the general feelings about torties. They love the quirks, tolerate the sass, and soak up the affection when their torties do decide to hand it out. While that may sound unpleasant, tortie cats and their unique personalities have plenty of fans among kitty owners. Tortie owners often expect to deal with a certain amount of unwanted behavior, like swatting, scratching, and even nipping. ![]() They are often sassy, energetic, and talkative kitties. ![]() Veterinary professionals, who interact with countless different cats over their careers, tend to approach dealing with torties a bit more cautiously because of their often unpredictable responses.Ĭats with “tortitude” may be more independent, like to keep to themselves, and display a fiery personality when they do interact with people. Torties are sometimes called “the divas of the cat world” because they typically like things done their way and have a quick temper when crossed. They may be affectionate one minute and hissing the next. Many are high-strung and dislike sharing their homes with other pets. Tortoiseshell cats in particular often seem to display these types of personality traits. Cats as a whole are often considered independent, unpredictable, and less affectionate than dogs, though research disputes this theory. ![]()
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