A calico cat shares a similar genetic background with tortoiseshells but has a distinct coat pattern that includes large white patches. The classic calico coloration consists of orange, black and white, creating a striking tri-color cat.
Like tortoiseshells, almost all calicos are female cats, with their coloring linked to having two X chromosomes.
The amount of white in a calico varies. Some have small patches of color on a predominantly white coat, while others have an even distribution of colors. Calico markings can also appear in different patterns and on different fur lengths.
