FACT OR FURRY?
FACT OR FURRY FICTION?
Apurrently … some cat owners are paws-itive that fur color determines a cat’s temperament. While science hasn’t fully confirmed this, there might be some whisker of truth to it. Let’s unravel the fur-tastic mysteries behind different cat colors!
ORANGE CATS: THE CHAOTIC GOOFBALLS
Some cat owners are paws-itive that fur color determines a cat’s temperament. While science hasn’t fully confirmed this, there might be some whisker of truth to it. Let’s unravel the fur-tastic mysteries behind different cat colors! A study from the University of California found that orange cats tend to be more social and vocal than other colors. Some theorize this is because the gene for orange fur is linked to the X chromosome, making most of them male. Others suspect they’re just powered by pure chaos. Either way, if you have an orange cat, be prepared for plenty of zoomies and unsolicited mrowls!
BLACK CATS: THE MYSTERIOUS SWEETHEARTS
Black cats have long been associated with witches, bad luck, and supernatural abilities (which they probably encourage by staring ominously into the void at 3 AM). But in reality, these shadowy sweethearts are some of the most affectionate and friendly felines. Some researchers believe black cats have a genetic advantage, making them more resilient to diseases. Perhaps their survival instincts have also made them more adaptable and social—after all, if you’ve been dodging superstitions for centuries, you learn how to charm the humans!
WHITE CATS: THE ELEGANT DIVAS
White cats often have a reputation for being sophisticated and slightly aloof—like the aristocrats of the cat world. But part of their “too good for you” demeanor might actually be due to genetics. White cats, especially those with blue eyes, have a higher likelihood of deafness, which means they can be easily startled or less interactive simply because they don’t hear their humans calling them (or they’re just ignoring you—who’s to say?). That being said, many white cats are just as playful, cuddly, and affectionate as their more colorful counterparts. They just prefer to look fabulous while doing it.
CALICO AND TOTOISESHELL CATS: THE SPICY ATTITUDE
If you’ve ever met a calico or tortoiseshell cat, you know they come with extra cattitude. These multicolored beauties are known for their fiery, independent spirits, and they don’t take nonsense from anyone.
Scientists suggest this spicy personality may be linked to genetics—since nearly all calicos and torties are female, their behavior may be influenced by the same hormones that determine their coat pattern. A study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science even found that calicos and torties are more likely to display sass, stubbornness, and occasional aggression. In other words, they’re the queens of the cat world, and you are merely their humble servant.
If you’ve ever met a calico or tortoiseshell cat, you know they come with extra cattitude.