Everything You Need to Know About Calico Cats (Tricolor Cats)

A calico cat, also known as a tricolor cat, is not a breed but a unique coat pattern that can appear in many different cat breeds. This striking combination of three distinct colors has been considered a symbol of luck, prosperity, and protection in various cultures throughout history.

From Japanese lucky cat statues to Irish folk tales about healing tails, the calico cat has always held a special place in people’s hearts. In Irish folklore, for example, it was believed that rubbing a calico cat’s tail on a wart would make it disappear — although we don’t recommend this as a medical treatment today.

What Does a Calico Cat Look Like?

To be classified as a calico, a cat must have three distinct coat colors, with white always being dominant. The classic calico colors are:

• White
• Orange (or red)
• Black

Some calicos feature variations with cream, brown, or reddish tones. The key is that the pattern appears as clearly defined patches of three colors, not as a blended mixture across the body.

Why Are Almost All Calico Cats Female?

The answer lies in genetics. The gene for orange fur is located on the X chromosome. Female cats have two X chromosomes (XX), meaning they can carry both the orange and black fur genes simultaneously. When combined with white from another gene, the result is a tricolor (calico) cat.

Male cats, on the other hand, have only one X and one Y chromosome (XY). This means they can usually have either black or orange fur — but not both. As a result, male calico cats are extremely rare.

The Rare Male Calico

In the rare cases where a male cat is calico, it is usually due to a genetic condition called Klinefelter syndrome (XXY). These males are sterile and occur very infrequently. In Japan, a male calico is considered an extremely powerful good luck charm and can be highly valuable.

The History and Symbolism of Calico Cats

In Japanese folklore, the calico cat is called mi-ke, meaning "three fur colors." According to legend, the first cats to arrive in Japan were black, white, and finally orange — and when these colors mixed, the first calico was born.

Regardless of the myths, it’s clear that calico cats have carried symbolic significance for centuries — not just in Japan, but also in Ireland, the United States, and other parts of the world.

Calico vs. Tortoiseshell — What’s the Difference?

Both calico and tortoiseshell are coat patterns, not breeds, but there are key differences:

• Calico: Predominantly white coat with large, distinct patches of orange and black.
• Tortoiseshell: Little or no white fur, with a more blended or “mottled” mix of orange and black.

Both patterns can appear in long-haired and short-haired cats, and in many different breeds.

Is the Calico a Breed?

No — calico is purely a color description. Many breeds can have calico patterns, including Norwegian Forest Cat, Maine Coon, British Shorthair, and a variety of mixed-breed cats.

Quick Facts About Calico Cats

• Not a breed, but a coat pattern
• Almost always female due to genetics
• Considered a symbol of luck in many cultures
• Male calico cats are extremely rare
• Different from the tortoiseshell pattern

The calico cat is one of nature’s most beautiful coincidences — living proof that genetics can create pure magic.