Researchers Say Cat’s Fur Color And Pattern May Predict Its Attitude

The feisty attitude of a cat could be attributed to the color of its fur. Researchers recently found out that a cat's markings are correlated to its level of feistiness.

Fox News reported that researchers from UC Davis discovered that cats with two X chromosomes like calicos and tortoiseshells are more likely to be challenging and aggressive compared to those with less flashy, single-colored coats.  Although it is not a universal designation, behaviors like biting, hissing, snatching and scratching are prominent to felines with calico and tortoiseshell coat patterns.

According to The California Aggie, the researchers conducted the study through an online survey to more than 1200 cat owners. The respondents were asked about their feline's behavior by choosing a color category and writing an appropriate description about their pets. They were also asked to rate the frequency of the behavior in a scale of zero to five.

Results showed that felines with calico and tortoiseshell coat patterns exhibit more signs of aggression and tended to challenge their owners. On the other hand, they also found out those cats with solid black, gray and white fur colors displayed less aggressiveness.

Dr. Liz Stelow, a behavioral expert in the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, said that they conducted the research to explore the long-standing assumption among veterinary professionals and cat owners that calicos and tortoiseshells are somehow different.

"We looked specifically at aggression and friendliness. They were significantly different from most other coat colors for aggression toward humans, but not for friendliness," Stelow said.

Despite the findings, Stelow clarified that the study does not intend to portray calicos and tortoiseshells as bad cats. She added that she believes tortoiseshells and calicos are still great companions based on her experience.

Research member Melissa Bain, a veterinarian and associate professor of clinical medicine and epidemiology, said that calicos and tortoiseshells should not be looked negatively. "Just because they have a higher incidence [of aggression] does not mean they are a problem."