A Guide to Cat Coat Colors and Patterns

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: June 27th, 2025

Cats are beautiful in so many ways, including their coat colors and patterns, of which there are many. And it isn’t just longhaired and shorthaired cats who boast a range of looks, as even hairless kitties come in various colors and patterns.

Dora Zett/Shutterstock

Do you know what a tabby is? What about a tortie? Or a colorpoint? Want to learn about the different colors that cats come in? We’ve got you covered with the handy guide below that will give you an overall understanding of the many colors and patterns cats can showcase.

Cat Coat Colors

Cat coat colors include the following:

Black
White
Brown (chocolate)
Gray (blue)
Red (orange)
Cream
Cinnamon
Fawn
Lilac
Silver

Coat colors can be in a range of patterns and shades. For instance, a cat’s genes could make their coat dilute (e.g., a diluted red coat would be cream).

Cat Coat Patterns

Here are some of the coat patterns you will find in the many cat breeds from around the world.

Solid

The solid coat features one color. Think: the black Bombay or the gray Korat.

These cats won’t have any patterns, such as stripes or spots, but will instead feature a uniform color all over the body.

Parti-Color and Bi-Color

According to CFA, parti-color (or parti-colored) cats are those who have more than one color in their coat. This includes bi-colored, van, and mitted patterns.

Bi-colored cats sport white with an additional color. For example, a cat might be white and black, white and red, or white and gray. And you can find bi-colored cats with white fur combined with a pattern. A good example would be a cat who is white with brown tabby fur. Whether solid or patterned, the color can be found on various parts of the body, giving each cat a unique look.

A cat with the van pattern will be mostly white, along with color on the tail and head. Think: Turkish Van.

According to TICA, a cat with the mitted pattern can have white on the paws, chin, chest, and belly.

Tabby

The tabby pattern is common, and tabby cats come in a range of colors. So, you can find brown tabbies, red tabbies, and silver tabbies, as a few examples. But there isn’t just one tabby appearance, as there are several types of tabby patterns.

The mackerel tabby pattern features stripes, while the spotted tabby will have spots. Thick circular stripes, referred to as swirls, are found on the classic, or blotched, tabby. And the agouti or ticked tabby will have bands of light and dark colors on every hair (e.g., Abyssinian).

If you look closely, you’ll notice that tabbies also have an “M” on their forehead created by the striping.

Colorpoint or Pointed

A great example of the colorpoint, or pointed, pattern is the Siamese. Kitties with this pattern will have darker fur on their ears, face, tail, and feet.

Here are some of the many colors that occur with the pointed pattern:

Seal point
Chocolate point
Blue point
Lilac point
Red point
Cream point

The points can also have a tabby pattern, referred to as lynx point. So, you can have a seal tabby point (aka seal lynx point), chocolate tabby point, and blue tabby point, as some examples. Tortie points, where a cat has tortoiseshell colors on the points, are also possible.

Tortoiseshell (Tortie) and Torbie

The tortoiseshell, or tortie, pattern features a mix of black and red. Torties can also have a dilute coat featuring lighter colors like lilac and cream.

A variation is the tortoiseshell-tabby, or torbie. A torbie will have the tortoiseshell coloration but will have tabby striping in their coat as well.

Fun fact: Because of the genetics of this coat coloration, most tortoiseshell cats are female.

Calico

The calico coat will have three colors. And, like tortoiseshell cats, most calico cats are female.

A calico cat will be white with solid patches of color. Many are white, red, and black. But they can also be dilute, which means they’ll feature lighter colors, such as blue and cream, in addition to white.

Keep Your Cat’s Coat Looking Perfect

Regardless of your cat’s color and pattern, it’s important to groom them regularly to keep them looking great with a smooth and healthy coat that’s free of tangles and mats. Grooming kits can make it easy to get all of the tools you need without having to buy everything separately.

A good example is the Catit Longhair Grooming Kit for longhaired kitties, which includes a metal slicker brush, long dematter, pin brush, and grooming comb.

Another option is the Catit Shorthair Grooming Kit for kitties with short coats, which includes a rubber palm brush, metal slicker brush, nylon slicker brush, and fine grooming comb.

Hopefully, this brief guide has cleared up some questions you might’ve had about cat coat colors and patterns. You might be surprised by how much more easily you can now recognize these beauties when you see them.

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Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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These conditions could make even the simplest movements more painful, leading your cat to conserve energy, avoid too much activity, and show a general disinterest in their usual routine.You may also notice your cat is starting to sleep more than usual, as rest becomes their primary way of coping with the discomfort they are experiencing. Any sudden or gradual decrease in your cat’s normal activities should be considered a potential red flag.Sign 5: Changes in Posture or MovementPain can significantly impact a cat’s posture and how they walk, also known as their gait. You may notice your cat hunching their back, limping, or moving with an unusual stiffness. These changes in how they hold themselves or move can be caused by a variety of painful conditions, such as arthritis, neurological problems, or recent injuries.For example, a cat with arthritis may hunch or stand differently to relieve pressure on their sore joints, while a cat with a paw injury might shift their weight off the affected paw to avoid causing further pain, resulting in a limp.Sign 6: Increased Vocalization Whether your cat is naturally chatty or generally a quieter housemate, any changes in their vocal patterns could be an attempt to communicate with you. While cats are known for their meows and purrs, pain could lead to an increase or decrease in vocalization. A cat experiencing pain and discomfort may meow, hiss, or growl, especially when touched or moved. Conversely, they could become unusually quiet, especially if vocalizing itself is painful. A sudden increase in yowling, particularly at night, or a sharp, pained cry when touched are more likely signals that something’s wrong than a typical meow for food or attention. Learning to distinguish between normal cat vocalizations and those associated with pain is key!

Easy Ways to Take Care of Your Dog’s Teeth

February is designated as National Pet Dental Health Month, but the truth is that your pet’s oral health should be something you focus on every month of the year. Periodontal disease (gum disease) affects a surprising number of dogs, including those who are young, and other dental problems, like chipped or broken teeth, can also arise.

Is Your Cat a Picky Eater? Things to Consider About Their Food

It’s no secret that cats can be picky eaters, and pet food companies have responded by making a variety of foods in a range of textures and flavors to suit every finicky feline’s preferences. If your kitty isn’t eating, here are some of the things to consider about their food to see if you can make some changes that will keep them happy.

How To Replace Your Pet's Fave (Worn Out) Blanket with Something New?

(photo credit: Gladskikh Tatiana / shutterstock.com)Let’s be honest here. Every dog or cat owner will have a stash of dog blankets in their arsenal of pet accessories. Why? Because they’re the easiest way to protect our soft furnishings from becoming coated in fluffy fur and doggy drool. And they’re sized perfectly for whipping off to reveal that pristine sofa or chair when company arrives.But we’re not talking about those plush cover-up blankets we all have tucked away in our closets. We’re talking about those comforting remnants that belong to your dog and seem to travel with him around your home. Like a child with a security blanket, our pets can often attach themselves to something soft and portable that brings them immediate comfort throughout the day.The “why” for this behavior can include his strong sense of smell and how a familiar scent provides him with comfort and reassurance when new or unsettling circumstances arise. Or, he could use it as a teething device when younger and simply has not outgrown the habit. It could also be down to your dog’s need to nest or burrow and a blanket allows him to flip it around and bury himself down under where he feels safe and cozy. And lastly, his favorite blanket can provide him with warmth and a sense of well-being that allows him to relax and feel at ease within his surroundings – especially when not in his home base.So, what do you do when said security blanket desperately needs to be washed? You know it will remove the scent he loves and (temporarily) his access to this comfort source. You plan for it.

Your Dog Will Love This Healthy 3-Ingredient Treat

If you're looking for a quick, healthy way to pamper your dog, homemade treats are the perfect solution. With just three wholesome ingredients, you can create tasty snacks that are free of artificial additives and tailored to your pup’s needs. Here’s a simple recipe that combines nutrition and flavor in every bite.

How Can You Make Guinea Pig Grooming Less Stressful?

We often see conversations among cat and dog parents about the challenges of grooming, but as any small animal lover can tell you, they aren’t the only ones struggling with this basic care need. Guinea pigs are incredibly delicate, and the thought of causing them stress or discomfort during grooming can make the task feel nearly impossible. But it doesn’t have to be “mission impossible.” Instead, I encourage you to reframe your thoughts about this process and your go-to routines. Grooming isn’t just about keeping your piggy looking Instagram-worthy; it’s a key step in keeping them happy and healthy. Neglecting these tasks can lead to a host of issues, from painful, overgrown nails to skin problems caused by matter fur and trapped debris. In this post, I’m going to help you shift you create a more comfortable and stress-free grooming experience for your guinea pig, maybe even creating some special bonding time! I’ll share gentle techniques and tips to reduce anxiety, making the grooming process smoother and less daunting. Understanding Your Guinea Pig's Grooming Needs: A Head-to-Toe GuideI want to stress again that grooming your guinea pig is more than just a beauty treatment. These aren’t tasks that should be skipped just because they are difficult or your piggy seems uninterested in the process. Each aspect of a guinea pig’s grooming plays a vital role in their overall comfort and well-being, and understanding these needs is the first step toward creating a better process for everyone involved. Nail Care Like our nails, your guinea pig’s nails are constantly growing. They would naturally wear them down in the wild by running on rough terrain and varying surfaces. However, in a domestic situation where they spend their lives in a cage or pen, this natural wear doesn’t happen enough to keep up with the growth. This makes regular trimming essential. Overgrown nails can curl under, causing pain and discomfort making it difficult for your guinea pig to walk properly. In severe cases, they can even grow into the soft pads of their feet, causing significant distress and opening the door for potential infections. How often you need to trim their nails will vary from one guinea pig to the next, depending on their usual growth rate, the type of bedding they have, and the surfaces they are allowed to explore on a day-to-day basis. However, you can expect to trim them approximately once every 4 to 8 weeks. You’ll need a pair of guinea pig nail clippers to tackle this task. These come in two main styles: scissor and guillotine. Each style has pros and cons, and there is no “best” option for every situation. Instead, choose the tool that you are most comfortable and confident using. It’s also crucial to have styptic powder on hand. This powder works to help quickly stop bleeding if you accidentally cut the quick (the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves). To use it, apply a small pinch of the powder to the bleeding nail with a clean finger or cotton swab and then apply gentle pressure. Making it Less Stressful: The secret to stress-free nail trims is gentle handling, a calm environment, and gradual desensitization. Start by getting your guinea pig comfortable with being held. Always support their body to ensure they feel secure. When preparing to cut your piggy’s nails, take a moment to find or create a quiet space to keep stress levels down and avoid being startled. When clipping the nails, you want to avoid cutting the quick. If your piggy has light or clear nails, only cut the clear part of the nail and avoid the pink area. If they have dark nails, this can be trickier. A bright light underneath their foot can help you see the quick easier as it forms a darker shadow. Don’t try to tackle all the nails at once. Instead, pay attention to your guinea pig’s signs of stress or anxiety, taking a break when they appear uncomfortable. You can always try again later. The first couple of times, this may simply be touching the clippers to their foot without even accomplishing any actual nail trimming, and that’s okay, too!Finally, desensitization is key. Regularly handle their feet, gently touching and wiggling the toes, even when it’s not trimming time. This will help them become more comfortable with having their feet touched. Introduce the clippers slowly in a similar way. Use their favorite treats to create a positive association, making the nail trim process less stress-inducing. Coat CareGuinea pigs come in various coat types, including short, smooth, long, flowing, and even curly! Your piggy’s needs are going to vary significantly depending on their fur. But, regardless of the length, regular brushing is always essential. This helps remove loose fur, preventing them from ingesting too much while self-grooming, which can lead to digestive issues. For long-haired piggies, brushing is even more critical as it helps to prevent painful mats from forming. As the mats become tighter, they can restrict movement, trap dirt and moisture, and even cause skin infections. Brushing also stimulates blood circulation, contributing to a healthy and shiny coat. Not only will your piggy look good, but they’ll also feel good! The tools you’ll need will depend on their coat type. A soft bristle brush is usually sufficient if your guinea pig has shorter hair. However, if they have longer hair, you’ll need a wider-toothed comb to gently detangle and a finer-toothed comb to remove loose fur (or one that offers two different sides to address both needs). Making it Less Stressful: Just like nail trimming, gentle, slow movements are the key to success when brushing or combing your guinea pig. Always brush in the direction of their hair growth, not against it. Hold them securely but comfortably on your lap or a stable surface, making them feel safe. If the table you are working on is slippery, consider using a small mat or towel to ease any fears. Keep brushing sessions short and positive, especially when first introducing it. Use high-value treats as a distraction and reward, making it a positive experience. Start introducing brushing as early as possible so they can become accustomed to it.

How Long Can I Leave My Dog in a Crate?

A high-quality dog crate can be a safe and controlled environment for your dog when you’re out of the house. However, it’s crucial not to leave your dog in the crate for too long, as extended confinement can cause physical and mental stress. The length of time a dog can stay in a crate depends on factors like age, size, health, and temperament. Here’s what you need to know.

When Is a Dog Considered a Senior?

We can’t escape time. As the years pass, we inevitably grow older, and the same is true for our dogs. They bring joy and companionship to our lives, but they can’t stay young and energetic forever. As they age, their needs change, requiring special care and attention. But when exactly is a dog considered a senior? The answer depends on several factors, including breed, size, and overall health.How Breed and Size Affect AgingOne of the biggest factors influencing a dog's aging process is its breed and size. Generally, smaller dog breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds, which means they reach their senior years at different stages.Small Breeds (Under 20 lbs): Dogs like Dachshunds, Toy Poodles, and Chihuahuas often live between 12 and 16 years or more. They are typically considered seniors around 10 to 12 years old.Medium Breeds (20-50 lbs): Breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies, and Beagles usually have lifespans of 10 to 14 years. They are considered seniors between 7 and 10 years old.Large Breeds (50-100 lbs): Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds typically live between 8 and 12 years. They reach senior status around 6 to 8 years old.Giant Breeds (Over 100 lbs): Dogs like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Mastiffs have shorter lifespans, averaging 6 to 10 years. They are usually considered seniors by the time they are 5 to 6 years old.While these general guidelines help estimate when a dog enters its senior years, it’s important to remember that genetics, lifestyle, and overall health also play a significant role in the aging process.Signs That Your Dog Is AgingAlthough age is a useful indicator, physical and behavioral changes can also signal that a dog is entering its golden years. For example, reduced energy levels are the usual sign, as older dogs might not be playful as they once were. Also, just like humans, dogs can develop gray hair, especially around the muzzle. With age, arthritis and joint problems become more common as well, just like cataracts, vision impairment, and hearing loss. As your pooch ages, you can also notice changes in their appetite or weight. As their metabolism slows down, they could lose or gain weight. Ultimately, some senior dogs can suffer from cognitive changes, experiencing confusion, disorientation, or changes in sleep patterns due to cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to dementia in humans).Caring for a Senior DogAs dogs enter their senior years, they require extra care to ensure they remain healthy and comfortable.

Help! My Cat Stopped Eating

Have you recently noticed your cat, usually a bottomless pit, suddenly turning up their nose at their food dish? Whether it’s a sudden disinterest in their usual meal or a complete aversion to food, a change in your cat’s appetite could be a serious cause for concern.A decrease in appetite may be the result of several factors, ranging from a minor inconvenience or change in taste (they can grow tired of their food, too) to a serious medical condition. The first step to fixing the situation is to figure out the root cause.This post will look at some of the most common reasons a cat may stop eating, offer tips and tricks to encourage them to eat again, and help you decide when you should seek professional help from your veterinarian. Remember, if this is a sign of an underlying illness, early intervention is key!Let’s help your kitty get their appetite back!Why is My Cat Not Eating?Understanding the cause of your cat’s loss of appetite is the first step in determining the best course of action, whether it can be handled at home or calls for a trip to the vet. While occasional picky eating is normal for some cats (my girl Pippen goes through phases), an ongoing, persistent disinterest in their food may be a red flag for a more serious underlying medical issue.Here are a few of the more common reasons a cat may have stopped eating:Illness or DiseaseLike with people, several illnesses, diseases, and medical conditions could significantly impact your cat’s appetite. After all, if you’re not feeling well, eating can often make that feeling worse in the short term.Some possible explanations for the change include:Nausea is a common side effect of many cat-related illnesses.Upper respiratory infections can cause nasal congestion and pressure, making eating uncomfortable. Dental problems like tooth decay, cavities, or abscesses can lead to pain and difficulty chewing.Chronic illnesses like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes may disrupt your cat’s normal body functions, impacting their appetite.PainAnother potential medical-related reason for your cat not wanting to eat - Pain (whether acute or chronic) can leave your best friend feeling “off.” Injuries, arthritis, and other painful conditions can make movement uncomfortable, including chewing or even bending down to reach into their food dish. It can also cause a decrease in their overall activity level, meaning they don’t need to eat as much to keep up with the calories they’re burning. Cats are masters at hiding pain. We, as cat parents, need to be on the look out for any signs of discomfort, such as reluctance to jump, difficulty grooming, or changes in the normal behavior.Stress and AnxietyCats are very sensitive creatures, and even the smallest changes in their environment can cause stress and anxiety. Introducing a new pet, the arrival of a new baby, moving to a new home, or even loud noises like fireworks or home renovations can disrupt their sense of security and lead to a loss of appetite.In addition to appetite changes, signs of trouble to look out for include hiding, excessive grooming, uncharacteristic aggression, or changes in their litter box habits (aka “accidents”).How to Encourage Your Cat to Eat (Home Remedies)So, you’ve noticed your cat isn’t eating or eating less than usual. Now what? What can you do to support your cat’s appetite?While a veterinary consultation should also be your first step, there are several things you can do at home while you wait for your scheduled appointment. Once you’ve consulted with your vet, they can guide you on the best course of action, including any at-home maintenance care. Here are some strategies to help support your cat’s well-being in addition to their professional veterinary care:Food TemptationMaking your cat’s food more appealing can sometimes do the trick, enticing them to push past whatever is causing them to resist eating. Warming their food slightly can sometimes do the trick. You can also try experimenting with different textures. Some cats prefer wet food, while others enjoy a dry kibble or pate.Offering new or tempting protein sources, like cooked chicken, flaked tuna (in water, not oil), or salmon, can help to pique their interest.If your cat’s food isn’t tempting enough, consider using a food topper to add interest to their meal. There are many options, ranging from hydration options like bone broth to more traditional food toppers like freeze-dried proteins. But be sure to check with your vet before making any changes to your cat’s diet.Try Fresh Human FoodsMany cats will turn their nose up at cat food only to be tempted by human foods. Of course, this means familiarizing yourself with the foods that can be given to your cat safely.Some options you may want to consider to spark your cat’s appetite include:SardinesTuna or salmon (fresh or canned in water, not oil)BeefChicken or turkeyEggs, especially egg whitesPumpkin pureeBroccoliGreen beansGreen peasCarrotsSpinachAny cooked foods should be unseasoned. Most common seasoning options are unsafe or even toxic for our cats.Pay careful attention if your cat is trying to eat things they shouldn’t, like your house plants. While it’s great that they are eating something, their chosen snack could prove to be toxic and lead to other serious problems.Create a Comfortable Eating EnvironmentTry reassessing not only what your cat is eating but where they are eating. Are there elements of your cat’s eating environment that are significantly impacting their appetite? Make sure your cat’s dish is placed in a quiet location where they can eat undisturbed, away from high-traffic areas of your home or the competition of other pets.What about your cat’s food dish? Consider experimenting with different food dishes, like a more shallow dish to prevent whisker fatigue, or a different material, like ceramic instead of stainless steel.How often are you cleaning your cat’s food dish? An unclean dish could turn your cat off from eating entirely. Keep their dishes clean and placed at a comfortable height for their size.Reduce StressHigh stress levels can be a major appetite killer. Try to minimize any potential causes of stress or anxiety in your cat’s environment. Pay attention to any triggers that could upset your cat, like overwhelming smells or sounds.You can also reduce your cat’s stress levels by providing mental stimulation. Ensure they have plenty of environmental enrichment in your home, such as scratch posts, cat trees, cat shelves, and interactive toys. Additionally, you may wish to consider calming aids, like Feliway diffusers, but consult with your veterinarian first.

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A Guide to Cat Coat Colors and Patterns

Cat Coat Colors