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Jan 27, 2021 · Mise à jour le Jan 05, 2026

10 Things to Know About the Tortoiseshell Cat

Character, genetic traits, lucky cat... We explain everything about this coat. And feel free to share pictures of your little tortoiseshell cats at the end of this article! #1 The term "Tortoiseshell" refers to a coat, not a breed When we talk about "tortoiseshell," we’re referring to a coat pattern, not a specific cat breed, as some might think. The tortoiseshell pattern consists of a mix of red and its variants (chocolate, cinnamon), and black or another dark color. #2 Several variations The tortoiseshell coat comes in multiple variations and patterns. At first glance, it might even appear nearly uniform. The colors can be distinct or more diluted, and they appear in different patterns: patches, swirls, speckles, etc. #3 It’s different from the Calico coat The Calico cat has a tortoiseshell coat with the addition of white. A unique feature of Calico cats is that no two kittens in the same litter will look alike. #4 "Tortie", "Tabby", "Torbie", what are these? Some tortoiseshell cats have striped areas, making them a torbie: a mix of tortie (the English nickname for tortoiseshell) and tabby, which refers to a striped coat pattern. #5 A chromosome story The tortoiseshell color comes from the fact that one of the two X chromosomes is inactive in a specific region in females. #6 Over 99.9% are female Tortoiseshell cats are typically female! There’s about one male tortoiseshell cat for every 3,000 female tortoiseshell cats. This particular coat is linked to a very rare gene in male cats. The gene for the tortoiseshell coat appears in males only if they have three chromosomes in the combination XXY. #7 Male tortoiseshell cats are sterile Due to the genetic anomaly described above, male tortoiseshell cats are sterile. #8 This makes it a rare coat! Since males are sterile and cannot reproduce with female tortoiseshell cats, this coat pattern is considered rare and somewhat of a genetic coincidence. #9 In Japan, they bring good luck In Japan, tortoiseshell cats are considered to bring good luck. They are even believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits! This coat is locally known as "mi-ke," which means "triple fur." #10 Common misconceptions about their character Unfortunately, tortoiseshell cats have gained a reputation for being temperamental and not getting along with humans or other cats. This misconception likely arises from the fact that tortoiseshell cats are almost exclusively female, and females tend to be more independent than males. At Ziggy, we believe a cat's character depends more on their personality and socialization than on their coat color. In fact, tortoiseshell cat owners describe them as playful, shy, affectionate, and sweet. They are lovable cats that deserve just as much attention as any other feline. We love our tortoiseshell cats as full-fledged family members, so we make sure to provide them with healthy, high-protein cat food. Our meals are made in France and are free from grains, tubers, and legumes, ensuring your cat stays satisfied and healthy.

Character, genetic traits, lucky cat... We explain everything about this coat. And feel free to share pictures of your little tortoiseshell cats at the end of this article!

#1 The term "Tortoiseshell" refers to a coat, not a breed

When we talk about "tortoiseshell," we’re referring to a coat pattern, not a specific cat breed, as some might think.

The tortoiseshell pattern consists of a mix of red and its variants (chocolate, cinnamon), and black or another dark color.

#2 Several variations

The tortoiseshell coat comes in multiple variations and patterns. At first glance, it might even appear nearly uniform.

The colors can be distinct or more diluted, and they appear in different patterns: patches, swirls, speckles, etc.

#3 It’s different from the Calico coat

The Calico cat has a tortoiseshell coat with the addition of white. A unique feature of Calico cats is that no two kittens in the same litter will look alike.

#4 "Tortie", "Tabby", "Torbie", what are these?

Some tortoiseshell cats have striped areas, making them a torbie: a mix of tortie (the English nickname for tortoiseshell) and tabby, which refers to a striped coat pattern.

#5 A chromosome story

The tortoiseshell color comes from the fact that one of the two X chromosomes is inactive in a specific region in females.

#6 Over 99.9% are female

Tortoiseshell cats are typically female! There’s about one male tortoiseshell cat for every 3,000 female tortoiseshell cats.

This particular coat is linked to a very rare gene in male cats. The gene for the tortoiseshell coat appears in males only if they have three chromosomes in the combination XXY.

#7 Male tortoiseshell cats are sterile

Due to the genetic anomaly described above, male tortoiseshell cats are sterile.

#8 This makes it a rare coat!

Since males are sterile and cannot reproduce with female tortoiseshell cats, this coat pattern is considered rare and somewhat of a genetic coincidence.

tortoiseshell cat

#9 In Japan, they bring good luck

In Japan, tortoiseshell cats are considered to bring good luck. They are even believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits! This coat is locally known as "mi-ke," which means "triple fur."

#10 Common misconceptions about their character

Unfortunately, tortoiseshell cats have gained a reputation for being temperamental and not getting along with humans or other cats. This misconception likely arises from the fact that tortoiseshell cats are almost exclusively female, and females tend to be more independent than males.

At Ziggy, we believe a cat's character depends more on their personality and socialization than on their coat color.

In fact, tortoiseshell cat owners describe them as playful, shy, affectionate, and sweet. They are lovable cats that deserve just as much attention as any other feline.

We love our tortoiseshell cats as full-fledged family members, so we make sure to provide them with healthy, high-protein cat food. Our meals are made in France and are free from grains, tubers, and legumes, ensuring your cat stays satisfied and healthy.

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Top 10 des choses à savoir sur les chats blancs

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May 06, 2021 · Mise à jour le Aug 01, 2026

Top 10 Things to Know About White Cats

Our white cat friends are majestic in their immaculate coat. Genetic features, famous cats, and cat breeds... We’ve prepared a list of 10 things you should know about our little companions with white fur. #1 They are very sensitive to the sun We all know the harmful effects of the sun on the skin, and although our cats are a bit better protected than us due to their fur, white cats and hairless breeds (Sphynx, Donskoy, Peterbald...) are more exposed to sunburn, and thus to squamous cell carcinomas, than other cats. For white cats, the nose and ears are common locations for skin lesions due to sun exposure. Luckily, there are now sunscreens specially designed to protect your little companions. #2 The W (White) gene is responsible for the white coat For a cat to be white, it must carry the W (White) gene: during gestation in the female, the W gene blocks the migration of pigmentation cells (melanocytes) to the fur. That’s why our little companions’ coats do not color and remain white. #3 White cats with blue eyes have a 50% chance of being deaf Another mystery of genetics, let us explain: for a kitten to be fully white, it must inherit the W gene (for White) from one of its parents. This gene blocks the pigmentation of the iris and destroys some ear cells. As a result: the kitten’s coat is white, its eyes stay blue, and it becomes deaf about a week after birth. This occurs in approximately 50% of white cats with blue eyes. #4 The coat of the Turkish Angora changes color The white coat and blue eyes were iconic of the Turkish Angora breed. But due to the hearing problems we just described, colored coats are becoming more favored during cat shows. #5 Some white kittens are born with a spot on their head The color of this spot corresponds to the color the kitten would have had without the W gene. Gradually, this spot will disappear with age. #6 The Khao Manee: one of the rarest cat breeds in the world It stands out with its completely white coat and often heterochromatic eyes. In Thailand and England, its eyes are even called "diamond eyes". Its body is slim and fine, similar to oriental-type cat breeds. Its character is often said to be similar to that of the Siamese! #7 A white cat is not necessarily albino Albinism is a genetic trait that affects all animal species and humans alike, without distinction. Due to this genetic mutation, the albino cat lacks pigmentation: its fur is white, its skin is pink, and its eyes are pale blue, heterochromatic, or sometimes even red. An albino cat is like any other cat; it does not suffer from any particular disease but is, however, a bit more fragile than other cats. #8 Superstition: the white cat is a sign of good luck Unlike the black cat, which is considered to bring bad luck according to some ancient beliefs, white cats have long been considered true good luck charms. At Ziggy, we love our cats in all shapes and colors! #9 Famous white cats In the world of cartoons, we immediately think of Marie and Duchess from The Aristocats. We can also mention Hello Kitty, the cute white kitten that was very popular in the 2000s. #10 Our white cats are more fragile, so we take care of them Due to their high sensitivity to the sun, we avoid letting them nap outside for long periods and we don’t hesitate to apply full-spectrum sunscreen, specially designed for our little companions. If you notice wounds, scabs, or a color change in the skin on the risk zones (ears and nose), we recommend consulting your vet quickly. Similarly, if your white cat is diagnosed as deaf, we make sure it evolves in a safe environment. Finally, our white cats, we love them like full members of the family, and we choose for them the best food for cats possible, without cereals and with quality proteins, to keep them healthy.

chat noir aux yeux jaunes avec son lit en arrière plan

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Aug 09, 2021 · Mise à jour le Aug 02, 2026

10 Things to Know About Black Cats

Often victims of false beliefs and superstitions, our black cats actually have a lot of love and tenderness to offer us! The origin of their beautiful coat, anecdotes, and superstitions, here are 10 things you absolutely need to know about black cats, adorable felines with the looks of panthers. #1 The B Gene Behind Their Coat Color The main gene responsible for the color of our cats' coats is the B gene. It can appear as B (dominant), giving the black color, or as b (recessive), giving the chocolate color. All cats carry the B gene, but color variations are related to other genes located on other chromosomes that influence the expression of B. Note that some black cats may have their coat "redden." We explain why in our article: why my cat's fur is turning reddish. You can also find all our tips on how to make your cat's coat shiny. #2 They Often Have Yellow or Golden Eyes Due to Melanism Melanism is the opposite of albinism. It is a genetic phenomenon that causes the completely black coat color and gives the cat golden or yellow irises. #3 Doubtful Superstitions Prejudices and archaic beliefs penalize our beloved black cats. For a long time, people believed they belonged to witches or were symbols of bad luck. In Ireland, an old legend says that black cats are actually leprechauns, who take on their appearance to get closer to humans. #4 A Good Luck Charm in Japan and the United Kingdom In Japan, the superstition about black cats being "bad luck" doesn't exist. On the contrary, every cat, regardless of its coat color, brings good fortune and is believed to have the ability to attract wealth. They are called "Maneki-Neko," which literally translates to "inviting cat." In certain parts of England and Ireland, encountering a black cat is not considered bad luck, but rather a sign of good fortune. #5 Many Black Cats in Shelters Black cats are reportedly less adopted than cats with different coat colors. According to a study conducted by the RSPCA, a black or black-and-white cat takes, on average, 10 more days to get adopted compared to a ginger cat. Besides superstitions, there’s another surprising reason for the low adoption rate: some people consider them less "Instagrammable" than other cats... We find them absolutely stunning and particularly photogenic, as you can see in the photos in this article! Psst: August 17th is International Black Cat Day. This day was created to raise awareness about the great cause of black cats and to encourage people to adopt one. #6 Black Cats Can Be in Danger Around Halloween In some places, shelters refuse to adopt out black cats several weeks before Halloween, fearing they might be sacrificed. #7 They Are Little Panthers in the Living Room Their coat highlights their eyes, which shine brightly. And their way of moving, with grace and agility, gives them the appearance of wild felines. So classy! #8 The Bombay, a Breed of Black Cat The Bombay is recognizable by its shiny black coat. Even its paw pads and nose are black. Contrary to what their name might suggest, they are not from India but from the United States. It was breeder Nikki Horner who decided to develop a breed of cat resembling a small panther. #9 Famous Black Cats Famous black cats include Salem, the cat from *Sabrina the Teenage Witch*. Also, Snowball II, the cat from *The Simpsons*, appears in several episodes. There’s also Luna, from the manga *"Sailor Moon*". And finally, Oscar the Bionic Cat, who received two prosthetics to replace his rear legs after an accident. #10 Black Cats Are Often Described as Affectionate but Also Shy Black cat owners often describe them as affectionate and almost clingy, but also intuitive and sometimes shy. Of course, coat color doesn’t influence a cat’s personality. However, it’s possible to draw a connection to how black cats have been treated for centuries by superstitious people. We love our cats just the way they are, for the happiness and love they bring us every day. We feed them accordingly, with a healthy and balanced diet that provides them with quality protein. Choosing healthy food is an investment directly in your little companion’s health.

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Jan 04, 2021 · Mise à jour le Jan 08, 2026

Everything you need to know about the Maine Coon cat

With its rustic charm and dog-like personality, the Maine Coon completely wins us over. In this article, we take a closer look at the characteristics of this adorable velvet-eyed giant. Origins and History of the Maine Coon A Breed from America The Maine Coon cat originates from the state of Maine in the United States, which gave the breed its name. According to the Official Book of Feline Origins (Loof), “its origin traces back to the first European settlers' ships landing on American shores, carrying long-haired traveling cats in their holds. Some of these cats escaped and adapted to the cold Maine winters. They developed a water-resistant coat, strong muscles, and a powerful hunter’s jaw.” Legends Surrounding the Maine Coon Some legends tell a different tale. One suggests the Maine Coon is the offspring of a raccoon and a domestic cat — “coon” being short for “raccoon” in English — which would explain its dense fur and large size. Biologically, of course, this is impossible… Other legends claim this big whiskered cat descends from Queen Marie-Antoinette’s Angora cats or from Norwegian cats brought by Vikings. If you’re a Maine Coon lover, choose whichever story you find most magical! Physical Characteristics of the Maine Coon A Large-Sized Cat As you might guess, this is one of the largest cat breeds in the world. The average Maine Coon weighs between 6 and 10 kg, with some reaching up to 12 kg — impressive, right? The Maine Coon has a powerful build, muscular body, and broad chest — it’s like the Schwarzenegger of cats! The Maine Coon is a remarkable breed that holds multiple world records. Stewie, a Maine Coon who passed away in 2013, still holds the record for the world’s longest domestic cat. From nose to tail, he measured 121.92 centimeters! Another distinguishing trait: its muzzle is wide and square, with prominent cheekbones. It also has small tufts of hair coming out of its ears, known as "lynx tips." The Maine Coon is an eternal teenager, as its growth lasts longer than that of most other cats. It only reaches full maturity at around 5 years old. Impressive Paws The Maine Coon has large, fluffy paws — just like its tail. If you adopt a kitten or adult Maine Coon, there’s a high chance it will be polydactyl. A polydactyl or hyperdactyl cat simply has extra toes. Some breeds are more affected by this genetic mutation, such as the Maine Coon and the Pixie-Bob. A Unique, Dense Coat Maine Coon cats have one of the most beautiful coats. Shorter on the shoulders, it gradually gets longer down the sides. Their long fur requires regular brushing to avoid matting. They also have ear tufts called "lynx tips." These big felines can have many coat colors: black, white, red, tabby, gray, cream, bicolor, tricolor… Temperament and Personality of the Maine Coon An Affectionate and Social Cat Despite its imposing and rustic appearance, the Maine Coon is a gentle giant. Very playful, it’s often called a "dog-cat." If you throw a ball, chances are it will bring it back! This kitty is very sweet and affectionate and enjoys human contact — both adults and children. It loves the outdoors but can adapt to apartment living as long as it has enough space to play and stay active. A Chatty Cat The Maine Coon is known for "talking" to its humans — it’s quite the chatterbox! This cat has a unique way of meowing and expressing itself, as if trying to talk to you. Fun fact: it has a repertoire of 63 sounds, and it’s said to coo more than it meows. Grooming and Care of the Maine Coon Coat Maintenance As mentioned above, its coat needs a bit of upkeep. Regular brushing helps prevent mats and supports the cat’s own grooming efforts. Cats can remove most dead hair with their tongue, but not all. Brushing helps eliminate these hairs, which can otherwise disturb the cat’s skin balance. Regular brushing also reduces hairball formation. When grooming, cats ingest a lot of hair, which can collect in the stomach and form hairballs (trichobezoars). If they become too large, the cat will vomit them or may suffer intestinal blockages. The Ziggy Cat Brush At Ziggy, we created the cat brush of our dreams — for long-haired cats like Maine Coons, short-haired ones, and even those who love a good head massage (just to the right, rrrrr). The double-headed brush is made of ash wood from sustainably managed forests, vegan, and crafted in France (Oise) to care for and enhance your furry friend’s coat. High-Quality Nutrition Due to its large size and longer growth period, the Maine Coon requires kitten food for a longer time than other breeds. Be cautious about weight gain if you decide to neuter your cat — Maine Coons are known for their big appetites. As mentioned in our dedicated article on Maine Coon nutrition, this large feline needs a cat food high in animal protein to maintain lean body mass (muscle, tone, immunity, and digestion). As a long-haired cat, this protein intake is also crucial for a healthy coat. A cat’s hair is about 90% protein (keratin). Their food should be rich in protein and essential fatty acids (Omega 6 and 3) to keep their fur in great condition. It should also be low in phosphorus (to support kidney health) and low in carbohydrates (to reduce obesity-related risks like diabetes or renal failure). Ziggy's Maine Coon Cat Kibble At Ziggy, we developed Maine Coon cat kibble that meets all these nutritional needs, to keep your cat healthy and happy. The bonus? They're adapted to the cat’s large, strong jaw. Bigger than our sterilized cat kibble, they’re easier to chew instead of just swallowing whole. Better chewing means better digestion! You can also add our wet food for cats. High in moisture and fully meeting your cat’s nutritional needs, it promotes proper hydration. Specific Health Issues in Maine Coons Maine Coon cats live about 12 years on average. Sadly, they are more prone to certain diseases, mainly due to the high level of inbreeding involved in the breed’s development. Heart Diseases (HCM) They may suffer from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which is hard to detect until heart failure appears. It is characterized by an abnormal thickening of the heart walls. Hip Dysplasia They may also develop hip dysplasia, a disorder of joint development. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Like many purebred cats such as the Sacred Birman, Ragdoll, or Persian, Maine Coons are predisposed to polycystic kidney disease — a condition where kidney cysts form and destroy renal tissue. How to Prevent These Diseases? These common diseases in Maine Coons are mostly genetic, and few preventive actions exist. To support kidney health, however, we strongly recommend feeding a low-phosphorus diet — which is the case for all our Ziggy kibbles and wet food. Why Choose a Maine Coon? An Ideal Companion The Maine Coon is full of wonderful qualities: gentle and affectionate, it loves cuddles and human contact from both adults and children. It's a big ball of love! And if you need company, the Maine Coon will brighten your days by playing with you and meowing sweet nothings. Adopting a Maine Coon Where to Adopt? You can reach out to shelters and rescue organizations that house many cats looking for loving families. This breed has become very popular in recent years, so it's also easy to find Maine Coon breeders in France. Any serious breeder should provide a clear pedigree and Loof registration to avoid inbreeding-related illnesses. But be aware, this adoption can be costly — some cats may cost thousands of euros… How to Welcome Your Maine Coon Don’t forget to prepare for your new furry friend by providing maximum comfort: a cat tree, suitable bowls, bedding, litter box… These are essential for the well-being of your giant cat. It’s important to devote time to your furball — whether for play sessions, grooming, or moments of cuddles and purring. Though it requires specific care, the Maine Coon is affectionate, playful, social — even a little clingy. It’s an excellent companion that will bring endless joy to your family.

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