If your cat has a multicolored coat, it is likely female, and this is due to its genetics
It’s important to note that the term "calico" does not refer to a specific breed but to a coat pattern characterized by white, black, and orange colors. These cats are often confused with "tortoiseshell" cats, which have a different pattern. The tricolor pattern is mainly found in females because coat color is linked to the X chromosome. Since females have two X chromosomes (XX), they can display all three colors. While it is possible for males to have this pattern, it is extremely rare and typically associated with Klinefelter syndrome, where the male has two X chromosomes and one Y chromosome (XXY).
Es importante saber que el término "calicó" no hace referencia a una raza específica, sino a un patrón de pelaje en el que predominan los colores blanco, negro y naranja. Es común que se confunda con los gatos "carey", pero estos últimos tienen un patrón distinto. Este patrón tricolor se presenta principalmente en las hembras, debido a que el color del pelaje está relacionado con el cromosoma X. Al tener dos cromosomas X (XX), las hembras pueden expresar los tres colores. Aunque también puede ocurrir en machos, esto es extremadamente raro y generalmente está asociado con el síndrome de Klinefelter, en el que el macho tiene dos cromosomas X y uno Y (XXY).
Where does the name "calico" come from?
It's essential to clarify that "calico" does not refer to a breed but to the tricolor coat pattern that resembles the colorful, irregular designs of calico fabrics. The term originates from a type of cotton fabric imported from the city of Calicut (modern-day Kozhikode) in India during the 17th century, with the name becoming associated with its place of origin.
Es importante aclarar que "calicó" no se refiere a una raza, sino al patrón tricolor de pelaje que estos gatos presentan, similar a los tejidos de algodón estampados con colores irregulares llamados "calicó". El término "calicó" tiene su origen en el tejido importado desde la ciudad india de Calicut (hoy conocida como Kozhikode) en el siglo XVII, y su nombre quedó asociado a su lugar de origen.
Symbolism and Mysticism of Calico Cats
Throughout history, calico cats have been associated with various spiritual meanings and superstitions in different cultures:
Symbol of good luck: In Japan, calico cats inspired the famous maneki-neko (lucky cat), which is believed to bring fortune and prosperity. Japanese sailors used to carry calico cats aboard their ships as talismans to protect against storms and ensure safe journeys.
Spiritual guardians: In many cultures, calico cats are thought to have a special connection with the spiritual world. They are believed to protect homes from negative energies and malevolent spirits.
Omens and signs: In the United States, calico cats often symbolize the arrival of positive changes or the resolution of financial problems. In Ireland, it is believed that if a calico cat enters your home spontaneously, it brings good fortune.
Rare and precious: Due to their unique genetics and the rarity of finding them, calico cats are often seen as special, unique, and magical creatures.
A lo largo de la historia, los gatos calicó han sido asociados con diversos significados espirituales y supersticiones en diferentes culturas:
- Símbolo de buena suerte: En Japón, los gatos calicó inspiraron el famoso maneki-neko (gato de la suerte), que se cree atrae fortuna y prosperidad. Los marineros japoneses solían llevar estos gatos en sus barcos como amuletos para protegerse de las tormentas y garantizar viajes seguros.
- Espíritus guardianes: En varias culturas, se considera que los gatos calicó tienen una conexión especial con el mundo espiritual, y se cree que pueden proteger el hogar de energías negativas y espíritus malignos.
- Presagios y augurios: En los Estados Unidos, se cree que los gatos calicó simbolizan la llegada de cambios positivos o la resolución de problemas financieros. En Irlanda, se considera que la llegada espontánea de un gato calicó a tu hogar trae buena fortuna.
- Raros y preciosos: Debido a su genética peculiar y a la dificultad para encontrarlos, los gatos calicó son vistos como criaturas especiales, únicas y mágicas.
Thank you for reading the post. See you in a future article.
Photos are my property, and credit goes to my cat Misha, who is a lovely model. Translation: DeepL.com
Oh wow those are some great share but it would be nice if you can include where you found the symbolism of calico's cat.
Hello, thank you... I summarized the Symbolism with many videos that I saw on various platforms, when she came to me and I adopted her many people told me that my kitten was rare and that it was said that she was good luck, I was very curious to know why they told me that and also I did not know if she was male or female and a colleague told me that they are almost always females because of the chromosome issue (we are bioanalysts and well she likes cats a lot it is inevitable not to put both topics together) I found it interesting to share my experience and what information I was able to collect. I know that when I take something from somewhere and it is good textually I must place the reference 😊🩷🩷