The answer to “What do you call a two colored cat?” is that a cat with two distinct colors is called a bicolor cat or bicolored cat. Bicolor cats have coats made up of two colors, often with a sharp dividing line between them. The coat colors can vary widely, with some common combinations being black and white, gray and white, orange and white, or brown and white. Bicolor coats arise from a genetic quirk that causes some cats to express two different coat colors. While unusual, bicolored coats are a naturally occurring variation in cats. These striking felines stand out from their solid colored counterparts.
Reasons for Bicolor Coats in Cats
Bicolor coats in cats occur due to a genetic phenomenon known as “chimerism.” This arises during early embryonic development when two fertilized eggs fuse together, combining into one kitten with two distinct cell lines. Each cell line carries the genetic code for a different coat color. As the kitten develops, these cell lines separate into distinct patches of color in the coat. This explains the clear dividing line often seen in bicolor cats. Here are some key facts about chimeric bicolor cats:
- Caused by two embryos fusing in the womb
- Each embryo contributes a different coat color
- Coat color separated into distinct patches
- Sharp dividing line where colors meet
- Rare genetic quirk, not a breed
While less common, bicolored coats can also arise from having two different coat color genes that are expressed separately. The patches of color occur due to random inactivation of one of the two color genes in different areas. However, chimerism is considered the primary cause of bicolor coats in cats.
Common Bicolor Cat Coat Patterns
There are several classic bicolor coat patterns seen in cats. While endless variations exist, these are some of the most recognizable:
Tuxedo
Tuxedo cats have primarily black fur with white paws, chest, belly, and sometimes face. Named for their resemblance to a tuxedo suit.
Cow Cat
Cow cats have large black or gray patches contrasting with white. The splotchy pattern is said to resemble Holstein cow markings.
Cap and Saddle
This pattern has a black or gray “cap” on the head and back, with a white saddle-shaped patch on the middle. Paws and belly are also white.
Mask and Mantle
Face and legs are black or gray, with a white “mantle” covering most of the body. May also have white paws or belly.
Patched Tabby
Tabby striping in one color contrasts with large patches of white. For example, brown tabby patches on white.
Van
Primarily white cats with color restricted to the head and tail. Typically the color is black, red, or brown.
Popular Breeds with Bicolor Coats
While any breed can have bicolor coats, some breeds exhibit them more frequently. Here are a few cat breeds where bicolors are common:
| Breed | Typical Bicolor Pattern |
|---|---|
| Turkish Van | Red or brown tabby patches on white (Van pattern) |
| Manx | Black and white (Tuxedo) |
| American Shorthair | Black and white (Tuxedo) |
| British Shorthair | Black and white (Tuxedo) |
| Japanese Bobtail | Mi-ke (Tri-color calico pattern) |
| Calico | White, orange, and black patches |
These breeds commonly exhibit striking bicolor coats, but many mixed breed cats also showcase unique two-tone patterns.
Personality and Care of Bicolor Cats
Aside from their remarkable coats, bicolor cats do not differ significantly from other cats in terms of health, behavior, or care requirements. Some key facts about living with bicolored cats include:
- Health is not affected by their coat pattern
- Lifespan is similar to solid colored cats
- Personality does not depend on coat color
- Grooming is the same as any other cat
- No special health risks or medical needs
Bicolor coats are purely a cosmetic trait. These cats have the same potential for affectionate, playful personalities and typical feline health as cats of any other color. Their routine care does not require any special approaches. Grooming needs match the length of their coat type. Beyond admiring their unique patches of color, bicolor cats can be treated just like any other pet cat.
Fun Facts About Bicolor Cats
Bicolor felines have captivated people for centuries with their remarkable patched coats. Here are some fun historical and cultural facts about these uniquely colored kitties:
- Many folktales feature magic bicolor cats
- Sailors historically favored bicolor ship cats for good luck
- Mary Todd Lincoln kept a bicolor tabby named “Dixie”
- Bicolors are depicted in ancient Egyptian art
- In Japanese folklore, Mi-ke cats beckon prosperity
- The Turkish Van breed name means “Swimming Cat”
- Genetic studies found chimeras common in Van cats
- Tuxedo cats have been popular as magazine cover models
- President Bill Clinton had a tuxedo cat named “Socks”
- Cow cats are beloved as “weirdly cute” internet meme cats
From sailing ships to the White House, bicolor cats have a long history as beloved animals with unique, eye-catching coats. Their two-toned patterns will likely continue intriguing cat enthusiasts well into the future.
Conclusion
In summary, bicolor or bicolored coat patterns arise in cats due to genetic quirks leading to two distinct color cell lines. While rare, patched cats have been valued for centuries as remarkable oddities of nature. Tuxedo, cow, cap and saddle, and van patterns are some classic examples of bicolor coats. Breeds like Turkish Vans and calico cats frequently display these two-toned markings. Aside from their distinctive look, bicolored cats are healthy, normal pets. Their only difference is the genetic luck of the draw that gave them a cosmetically split personality in fur color. So if you come across a cat with a sharply divided coat of two colors, you can correctly call it a bicolor or bicolored cat.
