I have adopted a tortoise shell kitten. What is the origin?

Answer 1

Yes, tortoiseshell is just a coloring pattern. Color on cats is a sex-linked trait, carried on the X chromosome. The two dominant colors are black and orange, so if a cat recieves an X with genes for black coloring, and an X with genes for orange coloring, the two colors end up combining in a mottled, orange-and-black pattern. That's the origin of tortoiseshell, as well as calico coloring. That's also why torties and calicos are almost always females--because female cats get two x chromosomes, whereas boy cats will only get one X, and so are usually either black or orange, not both.

There are variations on tortoiseshell coloring--some include white, and others are "dilute" tortoiseshells, meaning that they have patches of grey and cream instead of black and orange.

Answer 2

LONG-HAIRED TORTOISESHELL

A tortoiseshell cat is a fascinating pet in any home, being delightful to watch growing up, and most decorative. Both in the long-haired and short-haired cats, this breed has been known for a number of years. There are three colours in the make-up, black, red and cream, and they must be in patches and spread over the whole body, including the face, ears, legs, paws and tail, and under the stomach. A patterned cat should always have the pattern completely around the body. The patching must not be too large, and must be of clear colours without white hairs or brindling. The general appearance must be of a balanced coat on a compact body.
The colour of the face is most important, and a blaze of red or cream running down between the eyes is much appreciated, adding attraction to the head. Large wide-open copper or deep orange eyes set well apart are desired. The type for this breed is usually very good. Occasionally a narrow face and weak chin may appear, but if a male with outstanding type is used for mating, this will quickly be bred out.
The Tortoiseshell is a good but stern mother, demanding obedience from her kittens. Almost invariably tortoiseshells are females, although an occasional male may appear. There is no truth in the oft-repeated statement that such a male would be worth his weight in gold, as unfortunately they are sterile. When mating the queen, a stud of the breed of one of the body colours should be selected.. it is impossible to forecast what the kittens will be like, which makes breeding this variety most intriguing. Creams, Blacks, Reds and Torties could appear in the litter. Blues may also be used for mating. Red Tabbies have been used successfully, but in all probability markings will result from such a cross that may prove difficult to breed out.
A good Tortoiseshell with a well-patched coat with the three distinct colours is an entrancing sight, and always has many admirers at any show.

Standard Points

Colour Three colours, black, red and cream, well broker into
patches; colours to be bright and rich and well broken
on face.

Coat . Long and flowing, extra long on frill and brush. 50

Body Cobby and massive, short legs. 15

Head Round and broad; small, well-placed and well-tufted
ears; short broad nose, full round cheeks. 20

Eyes Large and round, deep orange or copper . 15

Answer 3

I got a kitten when I was 6 years old (now 21) and they said it was a tortoise shell but when i took her to the vet they said that was just the color, not the breed. Just a domestic shorthair or longhair, mine is a longhair. They are great pets and I still have my cat, alive and well! Not sure on the origin but they are beautiful cats!

Answer 4

Tortoise shell is just the color pattern not the breed. She's probably domestic short hair. That's the most common house cat here in USA.

Answer 5

I don't know the origin...my granddaughter adopted 2 of them....but I've heard they are only female...never male.

Answer 6

I have 2.I think that they are coming from Colombia.

Answer 7

go to cats.com and look up origin for that breed.

Answer 8

Their mothers.