Striped 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 color “in the inheritance” from their wild ancestor - the forest cat. In nature, striped color is quite important - it helps to hide among the grass and leaves, becoming invisible to predators.

To date, a striped color has a huge number of breeds of cats. What are the characteristics of striped animals, what types of striped domestic pets exist, how to choose and how to properly care for them - we will talk about this and many other things in our article.

Striped cats become the favorites of many thanks to their spectacular color. Wool with brightly highlighted stripes attracts the attention of others and becomes the main hallmark of the pet. There are several variants of striped color, each of which has its own specific characteristics.. 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 pet's spine. It is important to note that usually the strip that is in the center has a darker shade, and the stripes on the sides are noticeably lighter. In addition, these animals have a pattern on the sides of the body.

The distinctive characteristic of this striped color is uninterrupted stripes. In addition, by themselves they are rather narrow and may have a small smooth bend.. Often on the paws and tails of striped animals with mackerel color, you can see small, but clearly marked marks. Another characteristic of pets - the presence of dark stripes that run from the outer corners of the eyes to the cheeks.

This option is the most striking and colorful among all existing ones. The variety got its name due to the fact that the bands that pass through the cat's body are constantly interrupted. In this regard, it may create the feeling that these are not stripes at all, but ordinary spots.

At the same time, despite some differences in individual species, 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 a pet (the outline of the drawing, as well as its color and size may vary);
• two types of hair that make up wool (one of them is the background, and with the help of the other, a direct pattern is drawn);
• there is a pattern in the form of rings on the chest (this pattern can resemble necklaces).

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

Another important feature is that striped cats are endowed with quite developed intelligence and have pronounced mental abilities. This fact will be useful in the process of training the cat (for example, when you will accustom the pet to the tray).

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

Easy and fast adaptation to new environmental conditions, as well as the ability to navigate well in unfamiliar areas, also distinguish striped cats from other counterparts. But it also notes the fact that animals live for quite a while.

With regard to the nature and behavior of cats, striped pets are quite calm, docile and balanced temperament. They are resistant to various external stresses and endure adverse influences from outside.

Interesting fact. In nature, there are no two exactly 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, through which you can distinguish one animal from another.

As mentioned above, the striped color is typical not only for purebreds, but also for ordinary yard cats. Nevertheless, scientists have identified several major breeds of pets, which are inherent striped color:

• British Shorthair - for such cats the most characteristic color is mackerel gray shade;
• Scottish - Tabby is considered the most beautiful color of cats;
• Siberian - these domestic animals with long hair are characterized by striped-spotted color;
• Maine Coon - most often maine coons are brown;
• Norwegian Forest - the cat has a rather large size, and its striped wool has water-repellent properties;
• asian tabby cat - is smooth-haired;
• american bobtail - wool can be both short and long;
• Kurilian Bobtail - you can often see red and gray striped cats;
• american curl - wool has a pleasant silky texture;
• pixiob - stripes on wool are most often painted in dark shades.

If by their appearance you are attracted to cats in a strip, then you should pay special attention to the choice of a pet. You can shelter a yard kitty or purchase a purebred animal. One way or another, the 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 the yard cat. Such an animal can be a cross between several breeds, so it is quite 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 pedigreed tabby cats, then depending on the specific breed should take into account some factors.

• Striped british have a rather aristocratic and calm, but sometimes arrogant character. On the other hand, these animals can easily tolerate loneliness, so if you travel frequently or leave on business trips, such a pet is the best choice for you.
• Scottish cats docile and playful. In addition, they easily get along with other pets, so you can start them even if you already have pets in your home.
• Siberian striped cats have a pretty cool temper - they do not like strangers and are jealous of their territory, guard it.Another distinctive feature of the breed - high intellectual abilities.
• Maine Coons active and curious. They do not tolerate the caress of the owners, so they will not sit on your hands and ask them to stroke.
• Norwegian Forest Animals with striped coloring are quite popular among livestock breeders. One of the most important advantages of the breed - unpretentious care.
• Asian tabby well trained. They often become friends of young children and the elderly.
• American Bobtail - it is a friendly animal that does not tolerate loneliness, likes to be constantly in the company of its owners. In addition, it is necessary to walk with the representatives of this breed in the open air, as they like active rest.
• Kuril Bobtail equipped with nature hunting and fishing abilities. They are faithful to one owner.
• American curl gives in to training well. This breed is distinguished by appeasability and calmness, balanced and unobtrusive character.
• Pixybob - this is a calm and affectionate breed.

Thus, depending on your character, personal preferences and lifestyle, you can choose an animal that suits you. In addition, take into account the wishes of your household. If children live in an apartment or in a house with you, then give preference to the most agreeable and tranquil breeds of striped cats.

In general, striped cats need the same care activities as pets of any other colors. 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 a cat. Today, on the zoological market you can find a variety of deck chairs for sale, which will be an excellent place to relax an 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 a tray that will serve as a toilet. From the very first days teach 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 he can sharpen his claws.

Hygiene procedures are obligatory care measures. Periodically, cats need to bathe. This should be done in warm water and using only those detergents that are designed specifically for cats (they can be purchased at any zoological store). In addition, do not forget to regularly comb the fur of cats, especially for breeds that have long hair. And also need to regularly trim the claws of the animal.

Do not forget about preventive and medical events. So, for a start, take care of vaccinations. And also remember to regularly treat 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 veterinary clinic, and in any case do not self-medicate.

In addition, consider the behavioral characteristics of the breed. For example, some species need walks in the fresh air (in this case, you need to buy a leash and make a schedule of walks), other animals, on the contrary, like peace and quiet, so you should not constantly try to pick them up or play with them.

Striped cats are quite popular pets.A distinctive feature of animals with such coloring is a stable immunity, because the striation and quality of immunity is controlled by the same gene. The choice of a particular striped animal, which will become a full-fledged member of your family, should depend on a large number of various factors: appearance, color variant, breed and so on. But remember that choosing an animal, settling it in your house, you assume all the responsibility for its life and health, so try to follow all the recommendations for care and instructions for the content. In this case, you will provide the animal with a long, healthy and active life, while you yourself will receive a faithful and reliable friend.

On the behavior, content and care of striped Britons, see below.