Black and white cats - Cat's world. The cat is black. Breeds: names and features

The two-color coloring of cats is called "bicolor". Most often, this color feature is characteristic of certain breeds of cats.

Such cats received recognition in 1969, after being shown at numerous exhibitions. After this, an active period of breeding this cat breed began. Previously, two-colors were considered a reject.

Most experts believe that such cats are characterized by kindness and gentleness, balance and friendliness, they are distinguished by pliability and devotion. These cats require special care; they are often brushed and bathed. The name of a cat's color is determined by its dominant color. Depending on this, black-and-white, white-blue, and chocolate-white cats appeared. The main requirement for the color of such cats is that the spots do not mix with each other and are mostly located in the upper part of the body. Two-color cats have another name - megpai, from the English "magpie".

Most often, bicolor coloring is found in cats of the British breed. This breed's kittens tend to come in a variety of colors, ranging from black and white to cream or lilac white. This type of cat was recognized by 1970, and in the USA by 1980. Bicolor cats received a separate group called harlequin cats. For such representatives, the dominant color should occupy at least 5/6 of the surface. Most often, such cats have no more than three spots.

It is believed that breeding bicolor cats is not so easy. Because even with parents with ideal colors, the litter may end up with uneven coloring. It is especially difficult to get a cat with a symmetrical pattern, which is why such representatives are much more expensive.

Most often, a bicolor cat is obtained as a result of mating a tricolor tortoiseshell cat and a bicolor cat, or as a result of mating two bicolor cats. The result can be up to 17 different color variations.

It is believed that black and white cats have an excellent stress-resistant psyche, are distinguished by perseverance, ease of communication, and non-offensiveness. And, besides, they can do just fine without a person. Despite the difficulty in breeding cats of this color, such two-colored representatives can often be found in outbred cats. Yard cats black white color survive well in any, even the most difficult conditions. They differ in intelligence. For street mongrel cats, as a result of random mating, such a color is not uncommon, but achieving ideal color proportions in specially created conditions is difficult. That is why representatives of this color are highly valued among breeders, as already mentioned, especially if the location of spots of a different color is symmetrical.

Bicolor cats often win prizes at cat shows. They are valued not only for their external characteristics, but also for their excellent, problem-free character. Breeding bicolor cats is exciting activity, requiring patience.

The color of cats, which combines two colors - black and white, is usually called black bicolor. Moreover, the black-and-white color of a cat can be a representative of one of three subtypes of this color: coal-black with white areas of different locations, sizes and configurations, snow-white with multiple black spots, and white with single small spots.

You can find black and white coloring in many outbred cats, but there are more than a dozen breeds where bicolor is standard. Today we will look at many people’s favorite and common cat breeds in which these types of colors are found.

Cat colors have been very diverse since ancient times, since representatives of the cat family are ancient predators, camouflaging themselves in the environment for hunting. During the selection of domestic cats, colors have become even more multiple and varied, and in modern felinology the concept of color includes not only the color of the coat, but also the pattern on the cat’s coat and the degree of coloration, types of hair shades.

As we found out, cats have a two-color color (not only black and white, but snow-white + another color) color is called bicolor. Although animals of two colors have long existed in the wild (for example, pandas), bicolor for cats only became standard in 1969. At this time, several cats of this color were presented at the World Felinological Exhibition, and it became popular overnight. Bicolors, which were previously considered defective, began to be actively bred.

Three types of black and white colors

Only at first glance does it seem that all black and white cats are the same. In fact, there are three variations of black and white cats, which are very easily identified visually.

Table 1. Black and white colors

Breeding bicolor kittens

Getting black and white kittens with the “right” color is not an easy job for a breeder. The fact is that the bicolor color requires that predominantly the upper part of the body (along the spine and below) be well colored, the spots do not mix with each other, do not merge and have a beautiful and clear border. In addition, black and white cats, whose spots are located symmetrically, are highly valued, but since it is impossible to predict this in advance, these animals are extremely rare and have the highest value.

To get a bicolor black and white kitten, breeders breed either a bicolor parent pair or a bicolor cat of the desired color with a tortoiseshell cat. Depending on which combination of parental genes was used, kittens may be born with various shades wool - up to twenty color and shade variations. Therefore, breeding bicolor kittens is not only very difficult, but also extremely interesting for breeders.

Note that in black and white cats, interesting combinations are produced not only by the spots on the fur coat, but also by the pigmentation of the nose, lips and pads on the paws. Bicolor cats often have black markings of various shapes on the nose, and the pads can be black and pink - this is due to the color of the hairs on the fingers.

Eye shades in black and white cats also have different variations. More common green eyes, but there can also be honey, golden, orangish, less often blue and other shades of blue. Bicolor cats may have heterochromia (different colored eyes). If white color predominates on one half of the muzzle, the eye will most likely be blue, but if the second part of the head is black, the eye will be green.

Black and white cat breeds

Bicolor colors are not uncommon both for outbred cats and for their relatives with a pedigree. There is a large layer of breeds in which black and white cats have been bred for years, achieving a certain pattern. So, in some breeds it is important that the white pattern on black fur be as symmetrical as possible, covering all four limbs, head, and body; in other cats this is not at all important.

Below we will get acquainted with cat breeds in which the appearance of a black and white kitten is considered the standard norm. Let us note right away that black bicolor is usually not considered valuable, so kittens of this color will cost the same as their littermates with fur of other shades.

British cat

Classic for british cats For a long time, the color was considered blue or smoky, and many people longed to buy just such a kitten. Over time, the breed became widespread, and breeders began to offer British cats of various colors, including bicolors.

Professional felinologists call spots white The British have “piebold spotting”, and the colors of British cats are divided as follows:

1. “Van” is more than 90% white in color.
2. “Harlequin” or “marquise” - white color occupies 5/6 of the total color.
3. “Bicolor” - white takes up from half to a third of the total color.

We will tell you about the characteristics of British black cats, their history, character and care for them.

Another variation in the color of British cats is the mitted, which is not recognized by felinologists and is considered a disadvantage for a purebred pet. The coloration is characterized by a white stripe that runs from the chin to chest, along the stomach, inner surfaces of the paws and in the groin. Sometimes cats of the mitted color have white “socks” or “knee socks”.

British cats are very independent, proud and even narcissistic creatures, so all family members should respect their personal space and not unnecessarily torment the pet with attention. But if a Briton wants to show his feelings for family members, then he turns into the most affectionate and gentle animal in the world. This changeable temperament attracts many owners who consider their British cats to be real individuals. This is why black and white Britons are so popular - they not only have a strong character, but also a truly individual appearance!

Video - British bicolor kittens

Oriental cat

The Oriental breed is perhaps the most variegated in the cat world, as there are over two hundred different color variations and colors of Orientals. That is why nurseries that deal with these graceful alien creatures usually focus their attention on breeding kittens of three or four colors.

All three variations of black and white color are present in the breed standard of the Oriental breed, and are not uncommon. At the same time, “bicolor”, “harlequin” and “van” kittens can be born in one litter. There are hundreds of varieties of black and white Oriental cats - from black individuals with white “socks” and markings on the face, to animals with approximately the same ratio of white to black, and snow-white with small black spots. Each bicolor Oriental is a true individual, with a unique appearance.

Orietal cats are incredibly sociable, very intelligent and amazingly attached to people. By getting an Oriental kitten, a person will gain a full-fledged family member who will always be in the center of events. Orientals are a breed for those who love daily games and communication with their pet, which is why these funny, floppy-eared cats get along so well with children.

By the way, Orientals have a feature that is better to learn about before purchasing a kitten - representatives of this breed are extremely talkative! In their “arsenal” there are dozens of sounds with which cats express their mood or even “comment” on what is happening. For people who prefer inactive cats lying on the couch, the Oriental is not suitable.

Canadian Sphynx

Canadian Sphynx cats have several types: they can be completely hairless, velor, with short millimeter-long delicate fur, and brushed, with coarser hair. All three types can be black and white. Accordingly, not only the hairs of all sphinxes are colored, but also their skin. The Canadian Sphynxes also have three classic version this color:

1. “Bicolor” - the black color should be no less than a third, but more than half of the snow-white part. At the same time, the cat must have one ear painted black, preferably the presence of a large black spot correct form on top of the head. The tail of bicolor Sphynxes is often black; a small light area of ​​fur is allowed at the very tip.
2. “Van” is an almost snow-white cat, the tail is painted black (from base to end), and there should also be a black spot, entering the ear. There should be at least three small black spots on the body. Paw pads and nose are pink or beige.
3. “Harlequin” is an intermediate color between “van” and “bicolor”. Harlequin sphinxes have several black spots against the background of a white body; spots can also be on the limbs. The tail, head, and one ear are painted. Black spots on the mirror of the nose are acceptable.

Sphynx cats of any color are very gentle and delicate cats that love to be close to their owner. The Sphinx will be very happy to support any active activity, but will lie down on the warm lap of her master with no less joy. Note that Sphynx cats (especially white or light-colored dogs) are prone to allergies, so the owner must pay sufficient attention to preparing the pet’s diet, as well as hygiene procedures.

Unlike other cats, Sphynx cats need to be washed more often, once or twice a month, to clean them delicate skin from dust, dirt and natural secretions. In order for the cat to keep the white areas of its fur in its original form, you need to purchase special care cosmetics for hairless breeds, and wash the Sphynx with a special shampoo.

Kuril, Japanese bobtails

These tailless cats also come in a wide variety of colors, including black and white. At the same time, black and white color is characteristic of Japanese bobtails, and more than half of the representatives of this breed are carriers of one of the three variations of black and white.

Long-haired Kuril Bobtails often have variegated colors, but black and white individuals are also found. Black and white bobtails have their own small characteristics. So, for the “van” type, it is desirable to have a complete absence of black spots on the back, but a short tail should be colored. Harlequins may be colored one-sixth black to white, and the spots should be located on the head, back and forelegs. "Bicolors" must have a white mark on the face in the form of an inverted letter V, and there must be a closed white collar on the neck.

Maine Coon

Maine Coons are a very popular breed, not only because of their impressive size and ear tufts that make them look like wild cats. Maine Coon breeders have worked hard on the variety of colors in the breed, and each person can choose a kitten to suit their taste. Bicolor is the standard breed color for Maine Coons, but the variations in the location of the spots and their sizes are so great that it is impossible to find two identical kittens.

Despite the fact that the snow-white color is also among the standard colors of this breed, if we talk about black and white Maine Coons, they only come in the “bicolor” type. Kittens of the “harlequin” type are practically never found, and the “van” type is even rarer, and kittens with this color can cost hundreds of thousands of rubles.

For sociability, easy-going and desire to take part in everything family matters, Maine Coons are called “cat-dogs.” Representatives of this breed, despite their impressive size, are very affectionate, quickly become attached to the owner and all family members, and hate being left alone.

However, a large cat needs to be raised from a young age, especially when it comes to house rules and training in hygiene procedures. IN otherwise an animal may damage furniture or flatly refuse to comb its luxurious coat, which without proper care will quickly lose its luster and become tangled.

Persian cat

Among Persians, the most common black and white color is the harlequin. Animals should be approximately 5/6 white, the remaining one sixth being black spots. In this case, black should be rich and cold, the color of a raven wing.

White hairs are not allowed on black spots. The speculum of the nose in such Persian cats may be pink or black. Pigmentation of the nose and black whiskers are considered faults. Acceptable shades of the iris: dark orange or copper, dark blue, heterochromia.

Persian cats are gentle and affectionate creatures, despite their somewhat sullen appearance. In fact, the breeders who developed the breed paid attention not only to the impeccable appearance of the animals, but also to their calm and balanced character. This breed was bred as an apartment breed, that is, it was assumed that the cat would live closely next to a person.

The result was a slightly lazy and sedate cat, but very gentle and neat. The Persian cat is unlikely to tear up carpets and damage furniture, but will happily share with its owner watching a movie or reading a book.

Siberian cat

Many people believe that Siberian cats have only one type of color - motley, close to the colors of wild animals. In fact, Siberians have more than a dozen coat colors, which include both solid (solid) and black and white varieties. Siberian cats can also have the “harlequin”, “bicolor” and “van” types, which look very unusual due to their long fluffy fur.

The black and white Siberian cat is a luxurious, bright animal, the spots in its color are very strictly defined and do not overlap with each other. The main eye color of bicolor Siberians is green; shades of yellow are also found.

The peculiarity of Siberian cats is their long maturation. That is, an animal that has reached approximately five years of age can be considered an adult. Until this moment, Siberians behave like kittens: they are happy to play active games, do not sit still and get along well with children and other animals.

The Siberian cat, when she is still at a young age, needs to be introduced to the comb. If you don’t comb the thick long fur regularly (two or three times a week), there is a high probability that it will roll into unsightly tangles, and the animal will have to be cut, destroying its luxurious coat.

Turkish Angora

Turkish Angoras were originally bred as . A distinctive feature of the breed, in addition to the unusual combination of heavenly eyes and a snowy coat, is a long and very lush tail, similar to a peacock feather. It is this feature of Turkish Angoras that has made them very popular. Therefore, Agnor breeders created several colors, including black and white.

Initially, cats were bred snow-white, and it was not difficult to “add” black spots to the kittens, since black color is dominant in relation to white. The black bicolor of the Turkish Angora presupposes the presence of an inverted white letter V on the animal’s forehead, snow-white limbs, chest, muzzle, and a white belly and collar are allowed.

Manx and Cymric

The Manx is a short-tailed or tailless (depending on the type) Irish breed, the main feature of which is the absence of a tail - the result of a genetic mutation, and not the work of breeders. These cats are popular in America and Europe because they are similar to plush rabbits. This is due not only to taillessness, but also to the special structure of the coat, which is very soft, downy, and unusually pleasant to the touch.

Manx cats come in a variety of colors, from solid to tortoiseshell, and black and white cats are also considered standard.

The Cymric or Welsh cat is a small, fluffy, tailless animal with beautiful long hair. Cymrics are direct descendants of Manx cats, crossed with forest cats to produce a thicker, richer coat. At one time, Cymrics were called “Monkey Longhair”; the breed achieved independent recognition in 1976. Like Manxes, Welsh cats are allowed black and white colors.

Munchkin

Funny short-legged munchkins are another representative of domestic cats that are black and white in color. The popularity of this breed is associated with its unusual appearance and miniature size, so breeders tried to develop more different colors so that potential owners could choose a baby with a suitable appearance.

Munchkins have two variations - the long-haired type and the short-haired type, which gives each representative of the breed even more individuality. In both types of coat there is a “black bicolor” color, in which the cat is dark and light in approximately the same color.

Munchkins are ideal cats for a family: affectionate, loving, sociable. Funny short-legged cats quickly find mutual language with other animals, they adore children, and are always happy to receive the attention of their owner. However, the munchkin is called a one-owner cat. Despite the fact that these cute creatures treat all household members well, they give their hearts to one.

Cornish Rex

Curly, graceful, like figurines, Cornish Rex are the owners of four variations of black and white colors. Three of them are already familiar to us - these are “bicolor”, “harlequin” and “van”. The fourth type is called "tuxedo". Cornish Rexes of this color should have white on the legs and chest, and may also have white “gloves” or “slippers.”

Cats of this breed are already considered the most aristocratic and sophisticated, and the “tuxedo” color further emphasizes these features of the Cornish Rex. The eye color of the black and white Cornish can be variable: blue, olive, yellow or copper.

Cornish Rexes are very active and restless cats, suffering from loneliness and lack of affection and attention from their owner. Many people prefer to have two kittens at once, or take a Cornish to a house where there are already other pets, so that the baby does not worry when no one is home.

Cornish Rex can even be called annoying, they constantly crave to be in close contact with a person. This is due not only to the desire to play and socialize, but also to the fact that the short curly hair does not really warm these cats, but on their owner’s lap they warm up perfectly and sleep soundly.

Turkish van

Turkish Vans are cats whose breed name already contains a color feature. As we said above, “van” is a type of color in which the main shade of the coat is white, with only small spots on the head, body and base of the tail. The combination of “white and peach” is considered classic among the Turkish Vans, but not a large number of kittens are born with black spots.

At the same time, black and white color is considered standard and is recognized by expert felinologists. In combination with a luxurious half-length coat, this color variation looks very elegant.

Black and white color purebred cats Although it is common, it is impossible to find two identical animals. Despite the fact that feline breeders achieve beautiful, symmetrically located spots, the gene code of each kitten is unique, and even from the same parental pair babies are born that are completely different in appearance.

Characteristics of black and white cats

Despite the fact that felinology experts do not identify any features of the temperament or behavior of cats associated with their color (these are rather breed nuances), owners of black and white pets claim that they have many interesting features.

Thus, people who keep two or more cats, one of which is black and white, believe that two-colored pets are more docile and affectionate. According to the owners, black and white cats received their ideal character from their monochromatic (black and snow-white) ancestors. It is commonly believed that snow-white cats have angelic gentleness and tractability, while black cats, on the contrary, are strong-willed and independent. A “mix” of these colors produces gentle, but independent cats.

Black and white cats are credited with another feature - they get along well with people, conquering them at first sight. Animals of the “black bicolor” color subtly sense a person, guess his mood, so they never impose themselves once again, but are always ready to communicate. Perhaps the friendly disposition is due to the fact that two-color cats look very cute, and the people who get them treat their pets with great tenderness and attention.

The cat is black, the breeds of which can be called completely small quantity(officially there are only two of them), has always been associated with something mystical and mysterious. There are many signs associated with this creature, and even its symbol is present in Tarot cards.

Characteristics of nigella

Black cats, as a rule, are very sensitive and capture the mood of loved ones. It is absolutely in vain to associate something bad and magical with their presence. On the contrary, due to the dark color of their fur, animals absorb negative energy. In a house where there is a black cat (breeds in in this case are not important), an energy vampire will never appear.

These animals, like a barometer, determine the mood of the owner. And combined with an easy-going character, their talents can bring harmony to the family. However, not all black cats are gentle.

So, a black cat, Bombay breed, is not in vain compared to a panther. She has a smooth, satiny coat and quite a cool personality. Nevertheless, if the owner gains the trust of her pet, she will allow herself to be stroked and will respond with affection to the love.

Superstitions associated with a black cat

Despite the many signs related to black cats, they all vary significantly, depending on where the animal lives. But in almost all countries, a cat crossing the road is considered a bad prognosis.

However, in the cities of Japan and England, a black cat suddenly crossing the road is perceived as a harbinger of good luck. And to make a long voyage successful, English sailors take black kittens on their voyages. When the English find a dark-colored kitten wandering into their house, they will certainly take him in. But if the animal is driven away, then unpleasant things can happen.

In Scotland, a sign of well-being and contentment in the house is black cats sitting on the threshold. Breeds whose photos we show in our article , are considered the most attractive here. And the thicker and longer the hair of such animals, the greater the wealth in the house.

In Russia, although they believe that a cat crossing the road brings bad luck, they still willingly have such animals in the house. It is believed that a domestic cat is not only not dangerous in this regard, but also drives away evil demons from the home and even saves from theft. And the black cat, the breeds of which we will consider, for the most part, has a soft, calm character and brings calm and comfort to the family.

Interesting fact. If during the bride and groom’s festivities, a dark-colored cat sneezes somewhere nearby, then the family will have a long and happy life.

Relationships between blacks and people

Black cats are always physically very developed. They clearly have a hunting instinct, and they show it in all areas. If necessary, they hunt mice well, and if necessary, they can stand up for their owner.

Even doctors admit that black pets help protect against heart attacks. Simply stroking an animal with a calm disposition normalizes blood pressure and relieves stress accumulated during the day.

The kittens are charcoal-colored and get along well with small children. Such animals look especially touching with blue eyes. Their playfulness and activity allow them not only to run after the bow, but to tirelessly jump with the kids.

Popular breeds

The breeds of black cats (the photo perfectly conveys their sophistication) are quite diverse. But the Bombay cat is recognized as a classic of the genre. For an animal to be considered purebred, it must be completely black. Even the slightest spot allows kittens to be rejected for further reproduction. Externally, these animals look like mini panthers, with the same daring habits and capricious character.

The American Shorthair is also a black breed. Along with Bombay, only they can be exclusively charcoal in color. Other shades are unacceptable and lead to the rejection of offspring.

Other breeds, which can be dark according to the standard, allow the presence of other shades. These include:

1. Siberian cat. A breed bred in Russia and having a fairly muscular body.
2. Cornish Rex. Very sociable animals, with short but rather curly hair. Ideal for families with children.
3. Norwegian forest. The animals are large, with long and thick hair. This is due to the place where they are bred. Therefore, pets feel great in areas with harsh climates.

There are other breeds of black cats. Their individual specimens require closer examination.

Maine Coon

These are real giant cats. They are considered the largest cats in the world. Despite their impressive size, they have a gentle nature and are very peaceful creatures.

The animals boast thick and flowing fur. Their ears are decorated with funny tassels, which, in addition to their decent size, also distinguishes this breed.

Manx

When it is important to know which breed of black cats is the most affectionate and flexible, you should pay attention to the Manx. Thanks to its developed muscles, this pet will not sit still, but will require movement. But during games, he rarely releases his claws, except for fun. In a family with children, this is the best example of a pet that will be a companion for active games.

Persian cat

Despite the usual reddish color of this breed, a black tint is possible and is considered a manifestation of the pet’s special attractiveness.

These animals are distinguished by a squat body and a large head, with a characteristic snub-nosed, slightly upturned nose. They are considered very quiet pets that do not require active play and love to bask on the laps of their owners.

Conclusion

Despite the abundance of black cats, there are only two official breeds that have coats of this color. The rest may have completely different colors and at the same time have no deviations from the characteristics of their breed.

Black and white cats are called “Bicolore” - (two colors). These animals are considered quite persistent, but they are easy to get along with. They can easily do without human interaction. This color is more common in outbred cats, but there are several breeds with a similar color: British, Van, Angora, Persian and Siberian.

Usually black and white bicolor color can be found in cats of the British breed. They often give birth to kittens different shades: from purple-white to black-white. They are called harlequin cats. The main color of representatives of this breed should prevail over the second. The number of spots should not be more than three.

Description of the breed and color of black and white cats

Bicolor cats, after numerous shows, were recognized in 1969 at various exhibitions. Only then did these beauties become famous. Previously, their animals were considered culls. Black and white color common to many breeds:

• British;
• Angora;
• Persian;
• Siberian

Black and white British women are distinguished by their nobility and stature. Two-colored Persians are kind, sweet creatures. Angoras of this color are bright, expressive eyes. A Siberian fluffy cat with this color has a large number of spots on its body. A similar color can be found in such exotic breeds as the Japanese Bobtail, Himalaya, Snow Shoyu and Neva Masquerade.

Black Harlequin

Cats of different breeds are black and white and have the “black harlequin” coloring. They have a basic white color with black spots on them, they can be either spotted or striped and have any shape. Regular oval or round designs look impressive.

If the “harlequin” has spots with uneven edges, it looks original and cute: the painted parts resemble patterns resembling a heart, fruit or an infinity sign. There should be no white fur in the center.

The “harlequin” color is an ideal arrangement of black spots, distinct borders with white background with black color. One pattern is located on the animal’s face, covering the ears, and on the back there are several spots up to the tail that do not connect into one continuous stripe.

It happens that there is one huge or several small spots on the body of an elongated and horizontal shape. The tail of bicolor British cats is completely colored. Due to the variety of shapes, sizes and location of the pattern, the same Harlequin cats are not born.

The birth of a harlequin-colored kitten is a huge stroke of luck for any breeder.

Bicolor

If the spots are larger or smaller, then the color is called “bicolor”. The main part of the coat is dark in color, and the rest is white. This color is characterized by:

Light paws with spots of the same color (the lower part is colored).

White spot on chest.

One or several small milky designs.

White chest and paws, the rest is all black (looks like a tuxedo).

The latter color is characteristic of cats with black and white fur.

Wang

The Van color is characterized by a small spot on the paw or side and a small spot on the head. The tail is completely colored. On the muzzle just above the eyes there are one or two small patterns of a dark shade.

There may be a small spot on the shoulders of the animal and small spots on the limbs with reverse side. These cats are always a success at exhibitions; experts and visitors admire them.

Black and white British people are distinguished by their dignity and grace.

Character of two-color cats

A cat's temperament directly depends on its color. It is believed that black and white cats have an ideal character. This is due to the heredity of the strong character of dark-colored cats and the softness of light-colored beauties. The bicolor cat is revered by the English and Scots. They perceive a meeting with a handsome man of this color as a blessing. In addition, they are very popular in Russia. These animals are stress-resistant, assertive, but easy to communicate with. They feel great even without human interaction and are very smart. They always understand the owner's mood.

If they see that the owner is busy, they will not pester him. They usually don’t hold a grudge against the owner; they won’t take revenge on a person for an insult. They have this property from white cats, as well as their calm disposition. They are distinguished by amazing obedience and imperturbable composure. These cats love to play. This quality is stronger in them than in white or black cats. They are quite independent. Unlike other cats, they will not get their way in any way. Their dignity and pride will not allow this.

These cats get along well with people. They are capable of causing tenderness even in an overly serious person, not counting the flexible and good people. This is due not only to their wayward character, but also to their ability to remain calm.

Breeding

Breeding black and white cats is not so simple, but it is an exciting business. After all, it is difficult to guess exactly what color newborns will have. Since even parents with ideal colors give birth to kittens with uneven coat color. Ideally, a purebred black and white cat should have a symmetrical pattern. But it's not easy to get it. Therefore, such animals are valued and are not cheap.

If a black and white kitten appears in the house, you should not raise it strictly. Since these animals are very capricious. This attitude will most likely lead to the cat becoming withdrawn, and communicating with him will not bring joy to anyone. These beauties are easy to care for. They love bathing and brushing.

Despite the insult, they will never take revenge, unlike some breeds. Therefore, it is worth trying to find mutual understanding with him. Then another family member will appear in the house, who will always be able to console the owner in Hard time. It’s not for nothing that there is a belief that cats of this color increase success and bring happiness to the house.

What color to choose a cat is not an idle question, because it is by the color of the cat’s fur that you can learn in advance about the cat’s character and even draw up its psychological portrait. In this article on the site we will talk about how cats of several typical colors differ in their disposition.

Color in cats is a multifaceted concept and means not only the color of the coat, but also the pattern of stripes on it (or its absence), the presence of white spots on the coat, and the degree of coloring of the coat itself. There are few primary colors that make up the variations of cat colors: black, brown, red, yellow... Also, of course, white, but since it is not a color, and quite the opposite, it speaks of its absence, it is called a color purely symbolically .

White and fluffy

White cats have been highly valued at all times: they were extolled in Ancient Egypt and kept in their chambers by French kings. It is reliably known that a white cat lived with the English writer Charles Dickens and the Japanese Emperor Ishido... Solid white cats have always been considered a symbol of purity and purity. They also help those who take risks and work hard in life: white cats are ideal stress relievers and mystically bring good luck.

“Snow Whites” are not very common among the meowing tribe - there are only 5% of such individuals from the total number. The most common white cats are Persian and Angora, there are also white Maine Coons, white curly Devon and Cornish Rex. Very popular in last years became British white cats. According to the standards, the fur of such cats should not have any spots, inclusions or shades of a different color. Although kittens may have colored markings on their heads and between them, over time, usually by 8-9 months, during the first molt, they disappear. The nose and paw pads of such cats should be soft pink. Eyes can be yellow, copper, dark orange and blue. It is believed that white cats with blue eyes suffer from deafness, but experts say that only 5% of them are born truly deaf (however, deafness does not prevent them from speaking). full life next to its owner and produce healthy offspring). The rest of the white cats hear absolutely everything that happens around them.

The character of white cats is usually docile, calm, and very friendly. They are undemanding and sometimes even timid. White cats are very smart, affectionate and loyal pets.

Blacker than the night

Black cats are considered special among monochromatic cats. From time immemorial, the cat, which looks “blacker than the night,” has been credited with various kinds of magical and witchcraft abilities. Every nation has a lot of superstitions around charcoal-colored cats: for some, a black cat brings good luck and health, protects the house from thieves, while for others, on the contrary, such a cat is a harbinger of misfortunes, troubles and losses. Black cats have become the heroes of many books and films, and many songs are dedicated to them. There is even Black Cat Day (November 17) in the international calendar. However, putting aside mystical prejudices, we must admit that a black cat is a very beautiful, elegant and graceful person, she knows her own worth very well.

Black cats are calm, prudent, careful, and wise. They love communication, but at the same time they can calmly spend a lot of time alone, they perfectly feel the mood of the owner, and know how to relieve tension. Black cats have strong immunity, good health and resistance to stress. Black color is inherent in many breeds, both traditional, with centuries-old roots (British black cats are considered the oldest variety), and younger ones, bred several decades ago, such as the Bombay cat, notable for its dense hair-to-hair coat and good disposition and constant purring.

Red sun

This amazing color is called “red” by felinologists (experts in cat breed standards), and “golden” by ordinary cat lovers. The red cat's coat, for which a special gene is responsible, has one peculiarity - it is never continuous. The red fur certainly has some pattern: spotted, striped, marbled. It can be clear, bright or shaded. found among different breeds of cats - Persian, Siberian, British and even Siamese (Siamese saffron milk caps are considered very aggressive). But, according to experts, despite the fact that the red color is very popular and commercially profitable, most of the red color is observed among outbred cats.

Ginger cats and cats have long had a reputation as protectors and healers. It is believed that if a red cat fawns over a sick person, then the person it will go faster on the mend. Communication with a red pet also helps people suffering from hypertension and migraines. For many, “sunny” cats evoke joy and a positive attitude. This “trend” is also noteworthy: people with red hair love to have red cats at home. However, this is understandable: representatives of the same “suit” easily find a common language with each other.

Red cats are generally positive and peace-loving creatures, but they are cunning and, as they say, on their own. They require increased attention. The ginger cat always tries to be closer to its owner. Among babies, red kittens are the funniest, mischievous and playful.

50 shades of grey

Gray cats are considered aristocrats in the cat world, so it is not surprising that this rather banal color in relation to the cat’s color is more often called blue. There are many shades of gray: from light to dark, with a slight admixture of blue or a touch of silver. One of the varieties of gray color is smoky (the upper half of the hairs are gray, and the roots are white). Typical representatives of the “grays” are cats of the British breed, whose fur has a bluish tint. This subtle shade pairs beautifully with orange and green cat eyes. Gray color is often characteristic of Persians, Angora and Siberian cats.

Gray cats have firmly established their reputation as energetic, strong and flexible pets. They are distinguished from their relatives of other colors by their even and gentle character, lively mind and exceptional devotion to their owner. Gray cats are never vindictive; they are well-mannered and generous. It is believed that gray cats bring harmony and love to the house, that they relieve heartaches and nervous worries, and even help their owner who is in " interesting position", to endure pregnancy calmly.

Two in one

Two-color cats look very unusual. Their color is called bicolor. Not so long ago, such cats were considered “rejected” and were officially recognized only in 1969. Nowadays, two-color cats have become fashionable and in demand; at cat shows they collect many honorary prizes. Their color consists of the main color and the color of spots of different sizes. At the same time, the spots should not blur or mix with each other - this is the main requirement for two-color cats. The name of the color is determined by the prevailing color: white-black, white-blue. Cats with a symmetrical pattern are especially highly valued, but breeders rarely manage to breed such “doubles”.

It is believed that two-color cats are much softer, kinder and more obedient than one-color cats; they get along peacefully and are friends with other pets. Bicolors are very active and sociable, love to play and are very clean.

Tricolor cats certainly deserve a separate discussion. Cats whose color harmoniously combines white, black and red are considered in many countries a symbol of happiness, prosperity, and wealth. Such cats (precisely cats, not males, since the tricolor color is transmitted only through the “female” line) are distinguished by a special disposition, because they have inherited everything best qualities from monochromatic relatives. They are smart, affectionate, loyal and, like all beauties, a little flirtatious.

Do you believe that a cat’s color affects its character?