Tricolor cats, sometimes called calico cats, are known for their distinctive coat patterns featuring three colors – usually black, white, and orange. These vibrant felines have a mystique about them, leading many to wonder if they are luckier than other cats. In this article, we’ll explore the mythology, legends, and superstitions surrounding tricolor cats to find out if they really do bring good fortune.
What Makes Tricolor Cats Unique?
Tricolor cats, also known as calico cats, have a distinctive coat pattern featuring three colors – most commonly black, white, and orange patches. This unique coloring is due to a genetic quirk. Nearly all calico cats are female because the coat pattern is linked to a certain X chromosome. During embryonic development, female cats randomly inactivate one of their two X chromosomes in each cell. This inactivation leads to the mosaic coat pattern as different X chromosomes are inactivated in different cells. Male cats, having only one X chromosome, cannot develop the calico pattern.
Beyond their vibrant fur, tricolor cats exhibit typical feline behavior and personality traits. There is no evidence that calicos differ from other cats in terms of temperament, intelligence, or health. Their reputation as lucky cats is based solely on their distinctive appearance, not any inherent differences in abilities.
Calico Cat History and Folklore
Calico cats appear in folklore and mythology in many cultures, often being associated with good fortune. In many Asian cultures, tricolor cats are considered signs of prosperity.
Japanese Folklore
In Japanese culture, calico cats are thought to bring good luck. Japanese sailors long considered them lucky charms, bringing tricolored felines on voyages to help ensure safe returns. This tradition connects to the Japanese belief that calico cats have the ability to ward off storms. An ancient Japanese fairytale tells the story of an old man who dreamed his tricolor cat protected him from a giant wave.
Irish Folklore
There is an Irish legend about a calico cat that saved a family farm by keeping rats and mice away from the grain stores. The grateful family believed the cat brought them luck and prosperity. To this day, many Irish people still consider calico cats good luck charms.
American Folklore
Early American pioneers transported their belief that calico cats were lucky companions across the ocean. Settlers valued calico cats for their strong hunting abilities, which helped control rodents on farms and homes. Their vibrant coats also made them eye-catching pets. Sailors and fishermen continued the tradition of having calicos on board to ensure safe returns from voyages.
Common Calico Cat Superstitions
Beyond folk tales, many common superstitions surround calico cats in various cultures:
- If a calico cat walks towards you, it brings good fortune.
- Calico cats can see spirits and ward off evil.
- Owning a calico cat brings prosperity.
- Dreaming of a calico cat is lucky.
- Calico cats protect against bad luck.
- Touching a calico cat’s tail will grant your wish.
While these beliefs are not based in scientific fact, they contribute to the calico’s mythical status.
Do Calicos Have Nine Lives?
A common myth about cats is that they have nine lives. Does this apply to lucky calico cats? There is no truth to the nine lives legend. All cats are mortal and can die from accidents, illness, or old age.
However, calicos may have gotten an association with nine lives because their vibrant colors make them highly visible. This likely helps them avoid dangerous situations that could cost them one of their (single) life. So while calicos do not actually have extra lives, they may be better able to preserve the one they have!
Calico Cat Personality
Beyond the superstitions, do calico cats have defining personality traits? There is no evidence that calicos behave differently than other cats. They exhibit the same range of personality types as cats of other coat patterns and colors.
However, some observers note that calicos are energetic cats. Their vibrant coats pair with active and playful behaviors. Their bold coloration may also make calico cats more confident and extroverted.
While more research is needed, one study did find some interesting differences between calicos, tortoiseshells, and bipeds (black/white) cats. The data showed calicos and tortoiseshells interacted more with humans than bipeds. They also exhibited more vocalizations. This suggests calicos may be more vocal and people-oriented.
So while they don’t necessarily have “lucky” personalities, calicos do seem to take a special interest in their human companions. Their demanding and vocal natures support their mythology as cats that like to be the center of attention.
Are Calico Cats Special Needs?
Some people believe calico and tortoiseshell cats have special health and care needs beyond other cats. However, this is another myth. Beyond their unique coats, calicos do not require specialized nutrition, care, or treatment compared to other domestic cats.
There are two partial truths that may contribute to this myth:
- Most calicos are female – This means they are susceptible to female-specific disorders like mammary cancer and uterine infections. However, regular health screenings and spaying minimize these risks.
- A small percentage of calicos are chimeras – Chimeras display both male and female DNA because they absorbed a twin in the womb. A veterinarian can identify this rare condition with DNA testing.
So while a very small subset of calico cats have special health needs, most do not. They can eat regular cat food, play like other energetic kittens and cats, and live long, healthy lives. Proper preventative care is vital for all cats, regardless of coat color.
Do Calicos Bring Good Luck?
Despite the folklore and superstitions, there is no scientific evidence calico cats impact luck or fortune. There are a few potential explanations for how the myths originated:
- Active hunting skills – Historic beliefs that calicos control rodents may arise from their energetic natures and strong hunting abilities.
- Rarity – Only 1-2% of cats are calicos. Their uniqueness may have added to beliefs they were special or magical.
- Vibrant appearance – Their eye-catching coats pair with energetic personalities.
So while calico cats are not inherently lucky, their vibrant energy adds excitement to the lives of those who love them. And paying attention to small furry creatures can remind us to appreciate the small joys and blessings we may overlook in our busy modern lives. Perhaps calicos bring luck by encouraging us to pause and be present.
Should You Get a Calico Cat?
Are you considering bringing home one of these colorful kitties? Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Be aware calicos are high-energy cats who need interactive playtime and exercise.
- Their striking coats means they stand out. If you prefer a cat with a low-profile, a calico may not be the best fit.
- Calicos should be indoor cats who are protected from cars, predators, and contagious diseases.
- Early spaying prevents female calicos from wandering, yowling, and developing uterine infections when in heat.
- Be prepared to provide lots of care and affection. Calicos thrive when they receive plenty of attention.
While calicos are not fundamentally different in terms of health and behavior, their active personalities and care needs are important considerations. They require dedicated owners willing to provide an enriched lifestyle.
Conclusion
There is no scientific evidence that calico cats impact luck or fortune. The vibrant calico coat pattern is due to a genetic quirk, not anything supernatural. However, calico cats’ stunning coats and energetic personalities have inspired folklore across many cultures that frame them as lucky.
If you’re prepared to give a calico plenty of attention and activity, they make wonderful companions. While they may not change your fortune, their lively antics and devotion bring delight to those who love them. Calicos models living in the moment and appreciating life’s simple joys – perhaps the secret to lasting luck and fulfillment.