If you are a cat owner or simply a lover of all things feline, you may have heard about the mystery surrounding the tortoiseshell cat. Cats have always been aloof, stand-offish, independent and pretty hard animals to read.
The tortoiseshell variety takes this aloofness to a whole new level with legends of the most stubborn attitude otherwise known as ‘tortitude’ and unrivalled feistiness. The personalities of these cats are indeed unique, and they can make the most wonderful pets.
Tortoiseshell cats are special. They even look unique with their beautiful coat of rust coloured oranges, brown hues and jet black markings. No two tortoiseshells look alike, so if you are after a feline that will turn heads, then a tortoiseshell may be for you.
5 Simple Reasons Why A Tortoiseshell Cat Will Change Your Life
Unique Appearance
Tortoiseshell cats boast a distinctive mosaic coat that combines rust, brown, and black hues, ensuring no two cats look exactly the same. Their striking appearance is sure to draw attention and admiration from visitors and passersby alike.
Dynamic Personalities
Often described as having ‘tortitude,’ tortoiseshell cats are known for their bold and fiery temperaments. They bring a lively and spirited energy to any home, offering a unique blend of feistiness mixed with moments of affection.
Gender Rarity
Due to their unique genetic makeup, nearly all tortoiseshell cats are female, making them a rare find. This genetic curiosity adds an extra layer of intrigue and rarity to owning a tortoiseshell cat.
Loyal Companions
Despite their independent streak, tortoiseshell cats can form deep and enduring bonds with their owners. They are known for being particularly loyal and can be incredibly affectionate with those they trust.
Interactive Play
Tortoiseshell cats are highly interactive and enjoy engaging with their human companions through play. They are intelligent and curious, often seeking out playful interaction that keeps both the cat and their owner entertained.
Tortoiseshell Genetics
The law of genetics dictates that 99.9% of tortoiseshell cats are female in the same way as 99.9% of ginger cats are male. If you ask a vet if they have ever seen a male tortoiseshell, they will often say in hushed tones that a friend of a friend once knew a man who owned a male tortoiseshell feline. The legends that surround the tortoiseshell cat make the variety an even more unusual breed to come to know and love.
Just like any other variety of cat, they can succumb to illnesses. Sneezing and coughing can indicate a respiratory infection. If you suspect this, head down to the vets for antibiotics. Excessive scratching could signal the arrival of fleas. Pick up some specialist flea medicine for cats and apply it as soon as you can. The faster the treatment, the quicker you can rid your pet of the misery that fleas can cause.
Stereotypical Felines
Many people stereotype the tortoiseshell species in the same way as some people might stereotype ladies with blonde hair or people who wear glasses. Does the colouring of a cat really make for a fiery persona and this so called mythical ‘tortitude?’ It is fair to say that most tortoiseshell owners agree that they don’t want to get on the wrong side of their cat.
Change their diet for an inferior food, and you’ll get the kitty death glare. You also need to know how to answer the question how much should I feed my cat with your feline too. This is dependent too on how much your cat weighs. Refuse to dangle their favourite faux bird on a string in front of them, and you’ll hear a hiss. And don’t even consider closing the door for a bit of privacy when you want to take a bath. Tortoiseshells have a way of getting their own way and ruling the roost.
However, the extreme nature of their personalities rolls back the other way and, when in the mood, a tortoiseshell cat will be on your lap for hours, enjoying chin rubs and back strokes. They will sleep with you in your bedroom and will cry if you leave the room.
They are cats of extreme contrasts. One moment they are lolloping on the window sill and the next they are using your living room as an assault course. If you want a pet that will keep you on your toes, and fill your house with energy and love, then you can’t go wrong with a tortoiseshell cat.
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