Cat Facts
compiled by Nancy Kerr
C is for:
Calico is not a cat breed, but rather a color pattern consisting of distinct solid-colored patches. The most recognizable calico color is a pattern of red, black, and white. However, a dilute calico pattern will show shades of cream, blue, and white, while still others may show lilac and cream or chocolate and red patches with white. The calico pattern can be found in many cat breeds, with the exception of solid color and pointed breeds such as the Bombay, Russian Blue, Siamese, and Himalayan (a pattern division of the Persian breed). This is a “sex-linked” color normally found on female cats only, with rare exceptions being males which are usually sterile (unable to reproduce).
Caracal is a wild cat native to Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and arid areas of Pakistan and northwestern India. It is slender and moderately-sized, characterized by a robust build, a short face, long canine teeth, tufted ears, and long legs. It is also known as desert lynx and Persian lynx. The name “caracal” was proposed by Georges Buffon in 1761, who referred to its Turkish name “Karrah-kulak” or “Kara-coulac,” meaning “black ear.”
Catio is an outdoor cat enclosure or “cat patio,” where cats can enjoy fresh air and mental stimulation while staying healthy and safe. It can be as simple as a cat window box or cat balcony enclosure, or as elaborate as an entire enclosed backyard outdoor cat playpen.
Cattery is any building, collection of buildings on a property or rooms in a home where cats are housed, maintained, cared for, and bred for a cat breeding program – similar to a dog kennel. When purchasing a pedigreed kitten or cat, be sure to work with a cattery registered with a recognized cat association such as CFA.
Catnip (also known as Nepeta cataria) is a species of the genus Nepeta in the mint family. The names catnip and catmint come from the intense attraction which approximately two-thirds of cats have toward the plant. Some herbal teas have catnip as an ingredient. It is also valued for its sedative and relaxant properties, as well as being the main ingredient in some natural insect repellants.