Choosing the Right Tabby Cat | How long do Tabby Cats Live?

Tabby cats are the most popular cat breed in the world, known for their beautiful stripes on their skin, affectionate and playful behavior and the M shaped mark on their forehead. They have managed to make their way into homes due to their affectionate and playful nature.

What Are Tabby Cats?

Tabby cats are famous for their striping, swirls and spots in their entire coat. Natural camouflage reminds us these are still wild animals. The term ‘tabby’ is from a type of silk fabric having similar patterns. These coats have no links to a specific breed, but these coats are found in the American Shorthair and Maine Coon, as also in mixed breed cats.

History of Tabby Cat:

The tabby cat has a long history, going back for thousands of years.

Ancient Egypt: Tabby cats were admired in Egypt for killing pests and were often shown in art.

Middle Ages: Catching mice and protecting food supplies are reasons why they were valued.

Global Spread: Tabby cats went across Europe and Asia and fit well into different cultures and places.

Tabby cats are today one of the most wanted pets in the world because of their beauty and friendly nature.

Common Tabby Patterns

Mackerel Tabby: Looks like a fishbone nights stripes.

Classic Tabby: A marbled look almost like bold swirls.

Spotted Tabby: Spots or dots on the fur.

Ticked Tabby: Speckles without stripes.

Physical Features of Tabby Cat:

 There are lots of colour and shape to tabby cats but all have some things in common.

Brown Coat : With rich and warm tones, largely the most common color.

Orange (Ginger): Often bright, sunny and found in male cats.

Cream: A soft, rare color.

Body Structure

Tabby cats have a solid and muscular build.

Head: Broad with chubby cheeks.

Ears: Medium-sized ears.

Eyes: Big, bold, usually green, amber or blue.

Build: Agile and strong.

Tabby Cat Behavior and Personality

Tabby cats are famous for its friendly and smart nature. Typically their coat colors and patterns also reflect their personality.

Personality Traits

Tabby cats are loyal and loving towards their owner and family. They are very curious and love to explore their surroundings. Great for families or a single owner, playful and intelligent.

Social Behavior

Tabby cat love to play with children and other pets. Purring, cuddling and following their owners, they show their affection by sitting on your lap and purr.

Activity Levels

Tabby cats are energetic and they seem to love to play. Feather wands, balls or puzzles will keep them entertained and keep their brains sharp.

Caring for a Tabby Cat

Maintaining and caring tabby cat is a good thing so that it can live a long and happy life.

Dietary Needs

Opt for cat food made with real meat as the main ingredient. The maintenance of clean water is very important. Food should also be chosen carefully and should not include unnecessary fillers such as corn or soy. Cats of all sizes and ages should receive about 200–300 calories daily.

Exercise Tips

Play daily interactive games with your tabby cat and provide your cat with all favourite tools of them to make them active and more playful.

Grooming Tips

Regular brushing will help to prevent your cat shedding and getting tangles in its fur. Nails need to be trimmed and ears cleaned when necessary. They are only needed if they become very dirty.

Health Checks

Some of the common problems are obesity, dental problems and breathing problem. These problems can be caught and prevented early for those who have regular vet visits.

How long do tabby cats live?

In general, tabbies live 12 to 18 years depending on the decent health and lifestyle. If a tabby cat is cared for properly, eats a balanced diet and sees the vet regularly, some can be lucky enough to live into their early 20s. But a major factor affecting how long they can live factors in is indoor living, and a stress free environment. If you have a tabby cat, make sure you offer love and attention because it can really help keep your furry friend happy and healthy for years.

Choosing the Right Tabby Cat

Adoption is a great choice if you’re looking to add a tabby to your life. There are so many tabby cats in shelters looking for a home to love.

Preparing Your Home

Set up a little cosy bed. Prepare food and water bowls. It’s not hard for you to keep them entertained, by providing them toys. Eliminate hazards such as toxic plants or lose cords.

Interesting Fact

Tabby Cats You’re probably familiar with the M marking on the forehead of most tabby cats. Around 80 percent of this breed happens to be male cats. Charles Dickens and Winston Churchill owned tabby cats.

Also Read: Siberian Cat: Characteristics, Care and History

Conclusion

Tabby cats are beautiful, intelligent, doting and never boring. A tabby cat will be the perfect addition to your home, whether you’re attracted to their history, fun patterns or playful personalities. Are you ready to have a tabby in your life? Head to your local shelter today and make the wonderful furry friend the perfect travelling companion today!