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Are calico and tortoiseshell cats different, or are they a specific breed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 18 years and 10 months old | 12 lbs

Is there any difference between calicos and tortishell cats? Is this a separate breed of cat?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on November 23rd, 2018

No, they are the same. Both of those refer to the coloring of the cats coats, a tricolor or mottled coat, rather than a specific breed. Most calico and tortoise shell cats are females, since that coloring is sex linked. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you get answers to your veterinary questions.

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