Tabby cats: features, breeds, selection and care

Striped color is a fairly common color among domestic cats. The second name for the striped color is tabby. Pets received a similar coloring “in inheritance” from their wild ancestor - a forest cat. In nature, striped color is quite important - it helps to hide among grass and leaves, and becomes invisible to predators.

To date, a huge number of cat breeds has striped color. What are the peculiarities of striped animals, what varieties of domestic striped pets exist, how to choose and how to properly care for them - we will talk about this and much more in our article.

Striped cats become the darlings of many thanks to their spectacular color. Wool 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 is distinguished by 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 spine of the pet. It is important to note that usually the strip located 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 bands. In addition, they themselves are quite narrow and may have a slight smooth bend.. Often on the paws and tails of striped animals with mackerel coloration, small but distinct marks can be seen. Another characteristic of pets is the presence of dark stripes that extend from the outer corners of the eyes to the cheeks.

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

At the same time, despite the slight difference in individual varieties, striped cats have certain common features that distinguish them from all other fluffy pets. Among these signs are usually distinguished:

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

The thing is that for a similar coloring of the wool there is a special gene that can occur in any animal. In addition, scientists have discovered a rather curious fact: the gene responsible for banding also provides a good and stable immune system.

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

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

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

As for the nature and behavior of cats, striped pets are distinguished by a fairly calm, flexible and balanced disposition. They are resistant to various external stresses and tolerate adverse influences from the outside.

Interesting fact. In nature, there are no two absolutely identical striped cats. All pets have a unique color and pattern, unlike any other. Thus, the coloring of striped cats (like fingerprints in humans) is an individual sign, thanks to which one animal can be distinguished from another.

As mentioned above, the striped color is characteristic not only for purebred, but also for ordinary yard cats. Nevertheless, scientists identified several main breeds of pets, which are inherent in striped color:

• British Shorthair - for such cats, the most characteristic is the color of mackerel in gray;
• scottish - the most beautiful color of cats is considered to be tabby;
• 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 quite large, and its striped coat has water-repellent properties;
• asian tabby cat - is smooth;
• american bobtail - wool can be both short and long;
• Kurilian Bobtail - Often you can see red and gray striped cats;
• american curl - wool has a pleasant silky structure;
• pixibob - stripes on the wool are most often painted in dark shades.

If striped cats attract you in their appearance, then you should pay special attention to the choice of a pet. You can shelter a domestic striped kitten or purchase a thoroughbred animal. One way or another, but coloring is not the main characteristic of the pet. In addition to appearance, pay attention to the behavior and character of the cat, as well as not his habits.

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

As for purebred tabby cats, some factors should be considered depending on the particular breed.

• Striped british distinguished by a rather aristocratic and calm, but sometimes arrogant character. On the other hand, these animals can 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 complaisant and playful. In addition, they easily get along with other pets, so they can be wound up even if your house already has pets.
• Siberian tabby cats they have a rather steep disposition - they do not like strangers and are jealous of their territory and guard it. Another distinguishing feature of the breed is its high intellectual abilities.
• Maine Coons active and curious. They do not tolerate the caresses of the owners, therefore they will not sit in your arms and ask them to stroke.
• Norwegian forest animals striped coloring are quite popular among breeders. One of the most important advantages of the breed is its unpretentiousness in care.
• Asian tabby well trained. They often become friends with young children and the elderly.
• American bobtail - This is a friendly animal that cannot stand loneliness, likes to constantly be in the company of its owners. In addition, representatives of this breed need to walk in the fresh air, as they love outdoor activities.
• Kurilian Bobtail equipped with nature hunting and fishing abilities. They are faithful to one master.
• American curl good at training. This breed is characterized by complaisance and calm, balanced and unobtrusive character.
• Pixibob - This 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 in the apartment or in the house, then give preference to the most complaisant and calm breeds of striped cats.

In general, tabby cats need the same grooming activities as pets of any other color. So, first of all, the care and maintenance of the 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 the cat. Today on the zoological market for sale you can find a variety of sun loungers, which will be a great place to relax the animal. If desired, such a lounger can be made independently. In addition, the cat necessarily needs bowls with food and water.The diet and water balance of a particular animal depends on its breed. Another necessary detail is the tray, which will act as a toilet. From the very first days, train the animal to the tray to avoid a variety of unpleasant situations. And also with age, the pet will need a special device with which it can sharpen its claws.

An obligatory nursing measure is hygienic procedures. Cats need to be bathed periodically. This should be done in warm water and using only detergents that are specifically designed for cats (they can be purchased at any zoological store). In addition, do not forget to regularly comb the hair of cats, especially for breeds that have long hair. It is also necessary to regularly trim the claws of the animal.

Do not forget about preventive and medical measures. So, take care of vaccinations first. And also remember about the regular processing 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 veterinarian, and in no case do self-treatment.

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 strip and the quality of immunity control the same gene. The choice of a particular striped animal that will become a full member of your family should depend on a large number of various factors: appearance, color option, breed, and so on. But remember that choosing an animal, placing it in your house, you take full responsibility for its life and health, so try to follow all the recommendations for care and maintenance instructions. In this case, you will provide the animal with a long, healthy and active life, and you will receive a faithful and reliable friend.

About the behavior, maintenance and care of the striped British see below.