Orange cats, commonly referred to as ginger, marmalade, or tabby cats, appear to be some of the most recognizable felines worldwide. Despite the obvious appeal of the color orange, information regarding the biology, genetics, as well as the behavior of the orange cat remains relatively unknown to the average person. On the contrary, excluding the obvious stereotypes, the comprehensive list of facts which is derived from their genetics, evolution, as well as human interaction, is presented below.
Orange Is Not a Breed but a Genetic Color Trait
There is an assumption that an “orange-colored kitty” is one particular breed. The dominant color comes from a specific gene. It is not unique to a particular breed. There can be several breeds of an “orange-colored kitty,” like a Persian, Maine Coon, Bengal, and house cat.
All Orange Cats Are Technically Tabby Cats
While orange cats may appear to be without stripes or their stripes very faint, they all carry the tabby pattern gene. That is to say, truly solid orange cats do not exist; the patterns are just more delicately expressed.
Their Eye Colors Tend To Be Warmer Tones
While the eye color of cats can vary diversely, when related to orange cats, the eye colors of amber, gold, or copper hues occur more commonly. There is also a relation to the genetics of the colors of their fur, as the genes control the colors of the eyes as well.
Orange Cats Often Appear Larger Than They Are
Since their coats have light colors with well-defined markings, orange cats seem chunkier than cats with similar sizes but with darker coats. This is due to the use of optical illusion where light colors have the effect of increasing the size of an object as the amount of illumination hitting the object is directly proportional to the size of the object.
Their Coat Color Can Change With Age
Noticeable changes occur for aging orange cats. Kittens may come into the world with bold and bright striating colors that may change as they become adults. Senior cats may have an aged appearance due to their lighter color compared to their youthful coloration.
Their Skin Is Often Light Pink Under the Fur
As compared to their counterparts with dark-colored coats, orange-colored cats have lighter-colored skin on their fur. They should, therefore, avoid a lot of exposure to the scorching sun so that they do not easily burn on their ears and/or nose.
More Freckles Appear on the Skin of an Orange-Colored Cat
They are known to develop lentigo, which is generally harmless. In lentigo, little freckles form on areas like the nose, lips, gum tissues, and edges of the eyes. In other words, this is related to colors that make an orange cat orange. This progresses with age.
Higher Sociability Levels Often Observed in Studies of Orange-Furred Cats
A number of studies conducted around the world indicate that cats with an orange coat are likely to be more affectionate and sociably inclined. It is clear that the nature or personality of an individual is a derived effect based on environmental factors.
Orange Fur Reflects Heat Differently Than Dark Coats
Being less prone to retaining heat, lighter fur, as seen in orange cat fur, is more advantageous compared to darker fur and may be seen as an added survival tool. Climate for orange cats is an important aspect as warmer regions require quick absorption which provide comfort to the cats.
