The world of cats is multicolored as they come in all kinds of hues and patterns, from all-gray to striped tabbies and five-color calico cats.
That begs the question: what’s the most popular cat color, and does it mean your kitty is more temperamental if it’s of a specific color?
Read on, feline fans—let’s see if there’s any truth to it all!
What Is the Most Popular Cat Color?
Two of the most prevalent cat colors in the U.S. are black and white, and like the stark contrast of their coats, they are often seen as having two vastly different personalities.
For instance, while black cats are associated with bad luck, witches, and the mysterious, white cats are seen as pure, energetic, and good-natured.
Other common cat colors include gray (aka blue), orange (red), lilac, and cinnamon.
However, the core colors may be arranged in different patterns, from monochrome (single color) to tabby (striped), tortoiseshell (spotted), bi-color, calico (tricolor), and pointed, which all come in numerous varieties, and you can read about some of them in this article.
As for coat patterns, the most popular ones include the calico, containing anything from white, black, orange, gray, and cream, and bi-colored cats, especially the tuxedo mix.
That’s not all! Did you know that cats’ eyes also come in different colors?
Does the Cat’s Color Influence Its Personality?
However, research carried out so far does not offer significant support to the theory that the cat’s coat color signifies the existence of certain character traits.
For instance, a 2012 study conducted at UC Berkeley did not find any evidence to corroborate this modern myth and put it all down to a misconception perpetuated by media and folklore, which unfairly treats cats of darker colors and plunges their adoption rates.
On the other hand, a more recent study conducted as an online survey in 2015 by veterinarians at UC Davis claims that calico and tortoiseshell cats are more unruly and difficult to domesticate compared to cats with one-color coats.
Ultimately, it’s in our nature to ascribe certain personality traits to things and creatures based on their outward appearance. From aloof to shy and stubborn, we perceive various cat personalities regardless of whether or not they are rooted in genetics, as we see below.
1. Black Cat Personality
While black cats are often associated with bad luck in most Western cultures, some regions consider them good luck symbols. In Japan, black cats are thought to bring financial prosperity, whereas Brits believe a black cat crossing your path is a sign of good fortune.
The disrepute of black felines was brought about by myths, books, and movies that portray them as gothic or spooky creatures with supernatural powers sharing the company of witches. However, in reality, they are monochrome cats that only look magical.
Despite their reputation, black cats make loving and loyal companions. So if you’re considering adopting a black feline friend, don’t let superstition get in the way!
2. White Cat Personality
White cats have long been revered for their beauty and grace, and in many cultures, their color is seen as a symbol of purity, so naturally, they are considered sweet and gentle.
Even so, according to recent surveys of cat owners, white cats are perceived as snobbish, distant, and antisocial. However, such behavior can easily be explained by the breed’s inclination to develop hearing impairments.
3. Gray Cats Personality
Most misconceptions regarding gray cats regard them as lazy and uninterested in anything, which is simply not the case. Gray felines can be quite playful and active, and their personality traits mainly depend on their breed than the color of their coat.
For example, the Russian blue and the Nebelung are both known for being bold and energetic, while the British shorthair is typically more relaxed. So, next time you see a gray cat, don’t assume it’s lazy or uninterested—it might surprise you pleasantly!`
4. Orange Cat Personality
When it comes to orange cat personalities, people assume that all orange cat breeds are full of energy since it is such a vibrant and rich color. While that may be true for some orange (red) cats, plenty exhibit a Garfield-esque chill and laid-back attitude.
Orange cats are also more talkative, which is helpful when they’re trying to elicit a response from you. But overall, they’re trainable and quite tolerant of being held and worshiped, making them great cuddling partners and fun companions.
5. Calico Cat Personality
Calico cats are well known for their stunning coat patterns, which include at least three and up to five colors, and a vibrant personality that complements their unique look.
In fact, according to the research mentioned above, bi- and tri-colored cats tend to be more hyperactive than those of a single color. In addition, they tend to hiss, bite, and scratch during interactions with unfamiliar humans.
However, despite its genetics, each cat is different, so it’s not fair of us to judge a book by its cover—which brings us to our next topic of discussion.
What Factors Influence the Cat’s Personality?
As with any living being, a cat’s personality is influenced by various factors—some innate (biological factors), others externally affecting the entity’s development.
Therefore, while you cannot do anything about your cat’s breed, you can still shape her personality into a warm and caring animal if you provide it with enough love and attention and supply her with everything it may need, from food to a warm cot.
However, before socializing your cat, we recommend getting a feline DNA test kit to learn more about your furball’s breed, personality traits, and hereditary diseases. That way, you’ll know what to expect and how to approach its nurturing process best.
In any case, socializing your cat in a safe environment from a young age is vital to preparing them for being around other people and animals. Nevertheless, keep in mind that you may inadvertently impart your personality to your feline friend—introverted owners are likelier to have quiet and calm cats, whereas outgoing owners will have playful cats.
Finally, remember that long-lasting health issues can affect your kitten’s personality. For instance, cats with hearing problems may be more aloof (most common with white ones), whereas cats with vision problems may be more skittish.
Key Takeaways
So there you have it: while black and white cats are the most common, white kittens are adopted more readily since people unfairly judge black cats as unfriendly and distant. But really, all cats are unique in their own way and deserve to be embraced and loved!
Even if you don’t want to take in a shelter kitten, consider buying a cheap cat breed since they will still offer you the same love and warmth that you give in return!
Frequently Asked Questions
What color cats have the best personality?
Despite the lack of consensus claiming cat colors indicate specific personality traits, a few studies assert that orange cats have friendlier and more playful personalities.
What color cat is the most popular?
While not definitive, surveys reveal that the most popular cat colors in the U.S. include orange tabbies and tuxedo-colored cats (black and white).
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