Each chromosome contains hundreds or thousands of different genes. Chromosomes are found in pairs within the cell. Each cell contains two separate copies of each gene (alleles). While a human has 46 chromosomes (23 pairs), a cat has 38 chromosomes (19 pairs) and a dog has 78 chromosomes (39 pairs).

The calico cat is most commonly thought of as being typically 25% to 75% white with large orange and black patches (or sometimes cream and grey patches); however, the calico cat can have any three colors in its pattern. They are almost exclusively female except under rare genetic conditions.

Cats with these combinations appear: white with orange spots, white with black and orange spots (calico), and white with black spots, respectively. The actual genetic composition is called the genotype, and the expression of the genes is the phenotype. Thus, calico is the phenotype for a cat with the genotype XO XB.

If the two X chromosomes do not carry the same allele (i.e., the cat’s genotype is XBXbY), then the male will express calico coloration, just as a female would.

Only if the cat gets one orange-coded X and one black-coded X will it be calico. expressing both black and orange coloration. To manage these two sets of color code, the female embryo will shut down one X chromosome in each cell, resulting in the black and orange variations in a calico’s coat.

Calico cats are predominantly female because they’re coloring is related to the X chromosome….Why are most Calico cats girls?

1. Two X chromosomes are needed for a cat to have that distinctive tri-color coat.
2. If a cat has an XX pair, she will be female.
3. Male cats have an XY chromosome pair, so they can’t be Calicos.

For example, male cats may become more aggressive, spray urine and try to escape the house when they are in their sexually mature stage. However, female cats usually become more loving, and some tend to rub against almost everything while also being very vocal.

Persian cat: 10 – 17 years

At first glance, even professionals find it tricky to distinguish a female kitten from a male. However, a few characteristic differences can be observed in kittens as young as five weeks old—genital spacing, coat color, and behavior—indicating their sex.

Choosing a gender Males, or toms, can be friendlier than females. Intact male cats “spray” to mark their territory and “howl” for females (this is usually not a problem if you get him neutered). Female cats tend to be more reserved than males but are far less likely to spray.

Myth: Male cats are more affectionate towards humans and bond really well with their owners. Female cats are aloof and, because of their mothering instincts, prefer other cats to humans. Reality: This usually comes down to your cat’s individual personality.

7 Friendliest Cat Breeds

• #1 – Persian. A sociable and friendly Persian cat.
• #2 – Exotic Shorthair. A silver spotted Exotic Shorthair Cat sitting in the garden.
• #3 – Abyssinian. A friendly Abyssinian cat who loves to interact with people.
• #4 – Burmese.
• #5 – Maine Coon.
• #6 – Ragdoll.
• #7 – Sphynx.
• Bonus – The Moggy.

Cats will howl, cry, and meow—often and loudly—as a way to attract male cats. Increased affection. Cats in heat can be extra affectionate with their humans.

Every cat is different, so the appropriate response to your cat’s meows and body language signs may include physical interaction, playtime, respecting their space, or (of course) food. Aside from being able to communicate, a cat may choose someone as their favorite simply because they provide the best lap for catnaps.

1. A Cat’s Heat Can Be Difficult – For You and Your Cat.
2. Extra Petting and Brushings During Heat Cycle.
3. Give Your Cat a Getaway.
4. Cats in Heat May Need Some Extra Playtime.
5. Secure the Perimeter.
6. Herbal Remedies for Cats in Heat.
7. Play Calming Music During Your Cat’s Heat Cycle.
8. Keep the Litter Box Clean.

As a general guide, most friendly cats will enjoy being touched around the regions where their facial glands are located, including the base of their ears, under their chin, and around their cheeks. These places are usually preferred over areas such as their tummy, back and base of their tail.

He is likely to pace and meow relentlessly throughout the time the female stays in heat. Unless you can completely prevent him from being able to detect females in heat, the best way to reduce excessive meowing in an intact male cat is to have him neutered.

Numerous diseases can cause a cat to feel hunger, thirst, or pain, all of which can lead to excessive meowing. Cats also can develop an overactive thyroid or kidney disease, both of which can result in excessive vocalizations. Attention seeking. Despite what some people think, cats don’t like being alone a lot.

Each heat generally lasts several days with the average length being six days.

Heat, oestrus, and estrus all refer to heat cycles in cats. The breeding season in cats lasts almost year-round. Heat cycles can start as early as four or five months in a female kitten. Heat cycles in cats repeat every two to three weeks until the cat is spayed or becomes pregnant.

Spraying often starts around six months of age as cats reach sexual maturity. Spaying females and castrating males will reduce or stop spraying behaviour in up to 95% of cats!

It isn’t uncommon for cats to go missing for 24 hours, especially if they like spending a lot of time outdoors. In some cases, cats can even stay away from home for up to 10 days at a time.

Most will take their time and explore very slowly and carefully. Let them explore in their own time and don’t panic if they hop over a fence, or go further than you feel comfortable, most cats come back after a few minutes, at which point you can give them a tasty treat to encourage their return.

“If an indoor cat gets outside, put their litter box outside. They can smell it from up to a mile away and find their way home.”

Once you have this information about your missing cat, get in contact with:

1. Local vets in your area.
2. Your local Police Station.
3. All local animal rehoming charities.
4. Your local newspaper (to put an ad in the ‘lost and found’ section of the classified adverts)
5. Boarding catteries in the area.

If the cat hasn’t come home in a day, it’s time to start looking. Fortunately, a majority of the time, cats are located within less than a city block, if not on your own property. They usually return safe and sound from their hiding spot, looking for a good meal and attention, not even aware you were so concerned!

Cats go missing between 24 – 72 hours maximum. In rare cases, cats can also return home after going missing for several weeks or years. Missing cats can survive out in the wild for days by themselves just by hunting and foraging off the land.

It is best not to leave your kitten outside alone until it is 6 months old and it is essential that it is neutered (from 4 months of age) before allowing it unsupervised access. If you have adopted an adult cat you probably will have been advised to keep it in for 2-3 weeks to settle into its new home.