Attitudes of calico cats vary from breed to breed. It is a common misconception that calico cats represent a specific cat breed. However, according to the Cat Fanciers' Association, at least 16 cat breeds can have calico coloration, or a pattern of red, white, and black. Most calico cats, whatever the breed, are females. Male calico cats are a genetic anomaly and occur only at a rate of about one in three thousand.
How to Determine Attitudes of Calico Cats
There are many breed choices for a person who admires calico cats. The temperaments of some popular breeds that sport calico colors are described here as guides to choosing a calico cat with an appropriate attitude for your own personality and life style.
American Shorthair Calico Attitudes
The American Shorthair cat breed (also known as the domestic shorthair calico) is known for its gentle playfulness. It's an excellent cat for families with children. Along with its long-life and excellent health, it is known for being amiable even in the presence of dogs and children. It is relatively quiet. It is also an excellent mouser whose ancestors came to North America on ships to control the rat populations on shipboard. In general, these cats are affectionate with their families and are held in high regard as pets. American Shorthair cats like to be around people and enjoy being companions and lap cats.
Maine Coon Calicos
Maine Coon cats are sturdy felines that tolerate harsh winter conditions. Their predecessors came to the United States from Europe primarily as mousers, and they are excellent hunters to this day. Maine Coons have small voices in contrast to their larger than average bodies. Their personalities might be described as dog-like; they accompany their humans, but are not always lap cats. Instead, they may prefer to remain close to their humans, sitting nearby. Maine Coons are late to mature and may not get their full growth until they are almost three years old. This may lead their humans to underestimate their ultimate size and age.
Japanese Bobtail Calicos
Japanese Bobtail cats have a long history as human companions. They are thought to have come to Japan from China or Korea over 2,000 years ago. They are represented in paintings that go back many centuries. Japanese Bobtails mature early and are very active and playful as kittens, carrying things in their mouths and willingly retrieving objects for their humans. They are one of the more intelligent cat breeds. They are very talkative and have an extensive tonal range to their voices. Their intelligence and mischief may challenge some humans, especially people who want a quiet lap cat.
Persian Calicos
Persians are in some ways the royalty of the cat world. With their long flowing fur, they need to be kept inside and groomed regularly. They are sensitive, preferring little change in their surroundings. Any changes should be presented to them gently and over time so that they may adjust to a new situation. Their temperament is gentle and sweet once they are comfortable in their surroundings. They have soft voices that they use only moderately. For someone who wants a cuddly, loving companion that also serves as an elegant decoration, the Persian cat is a good choice.
American Curl Calicos
American Curls comprise a relatively new breed. They were first bred in the 20th century from a kitten whose ears curled backward. The breed also has unique attitudes. American Curls are known to interact with their owners, waking them, giving kisses and showing other affectionate behaviors. They are highly vocal and are committed to "hanging out" with their people, accompanying them as they do their chores or rest in front of the television or a warm fire. The clinging attitudes of these affectionate cats will not suit a person who wants a cat that is fiercely independent and demands little interaction with its people.
Calico Is a Color, Not a Breed
For those who find calico coloring appealing and who are willing to choose a female cat (males are rare), there are many suitable breeds from which to choose a calico cat. Attitudes of calico cats vary as much as do personalities from one breed to another. To find a calico cat with an appealing temperament, choose a breed and then find a calico cat within that breed.
