These tortoiseshell color patterns have a mix of the tortoiseshell colors intertwined with a Tabby Cat patterning throughout. The Tortie Cat is an interesting variation of the Tortoiseshell cat. They generally have numerous flecks of color that soften or nearly eliminate any clear boundaries between color sections. The name “Tortoiseshell Cat” generally refers to those with an overall brindle coat, having very few or no white markings.

The tortoise shell pattern ranges from patches of color to a fine speckled patterning. Tortoiseshell coat colors can include red, brown, chocolate-toned brown, black, cinnamon, or cream. Since the orange tabby areas are two-toned, it creates the appearance of a three-toned cat. Although it appears to be three colors, in reality, it consists of black areas and orange tabby areas. This combination looks like black, red, and cream-colored hairs. The defining feature of the classic tortoiseshell coat pattern is its color combination. The Tortoiseshell Cat is referred to as a Tri-Color cat, though in reality, this is not quite true.

Tortoiseshell Cats have a beautiful tapestry of wonderful interweaving colors!