13 Orange Cat Breeds That Are Too Cute To Ignore
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What comes to mind when you think of a tabby cat?
Maybe you’re reminded of the iconic cartoon character Garfield or puss in boots from Shrek or the largest wild cat- the tiger. Some people even associate orange cats with warmth, joy, and happiness. The National Geographic notes that orange cats are more outgoing, social, and friendly.
One thing we can all agree on is that orange cats are strikingly beautiful. No wonder this coat colour is one of the most sought after by cat parents.
And if you’re thinking of adopting a ginger cat, you can bet there are plenty of cat breeds to choose from.
To help you make an informed choice, we have a detailed list of 13 adorable orange cat breeds.
13 Adorable Orange Cat Breeds
Let’s now look at some of the most beautiful orange cat breeds that make wonderful companions.
#1 Turkish Angora
- Height: 9-14 inches
- Weight: 8-15 pounds
- Lifespan: 9-14 years
- Personality: Social, intelligent, adaptable
Turkish Angora is one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds that originated in Turkey. They are considered a national treasure in their home country. History has it that the Turkish Angora was gifted to European royals by the Turkish sultans.
Initially, the Turkish Angoras were white, but today they’re found in a variety of colors including ginger-orange.
These adorable furballs are loyal, playful, and affectionate even to strangers. Their soft long coats are relatively high maintenance as they need regular grooming.
#2 Scottish Fold
- Height: 8-10 inches
- Weight: 6-9 pounds
- Lifespan: 11-14 years
- Personality: Affectionate, gentle, and intelligent
You’ve got to fall in love with cat’s adorable round face and big round eyes.
The Scottish Fold was developed due to random genetic mutation of farm cats in Scotland. The mutation can be traced to this breed’s ancestry farm cat, Susie.
Susie had a white coat but currently, this cat comes in a variety of coat colors and patterns including orange. Orange Scottish Fold cats are referred to as red since they have no tabby markings.
Scottish Fold is a sweet charming cat breed that is also known for its unique folded ears.
#3 Persian
- Height: 10-15 inches
- Weight: 7-13 pounds
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Personality: social, affectionate, sweet, and gentle
Persians are the most popular cat breeds in America and perhaps the world too. These cats that are also referred to as doll faces have large round eyes and round heads.
Persians are a darling among the elite class and it’s easy to see why. These cats’ long luxurious coats and majestic personalities command royalty.
Notably, the famous cartoon character, Garfield is considered to be a Persian cat. Persian cats are friendly breeds with sweet expressions that warm people hearts. These cats are laidback and enjoy sunbathing the whole day.
Though white Persians are perhaps the most iconic cats of this breed, ginger Persians also stand out.
#4 Abyssinian
- Height: 8-10 inches
- Weight: 8-12 pounds
- Lifespan: 9-13 years
- Personality: Curious, mischievous, playful, sociable, loyal
Abyssinians are one of the oldest known cat breeds and it’s believed their descendants came from the cats of Ancient Egypt.
The Abyssinian orange cat is a sight to behold with her distinct ticked coat, athletic body, and graceful look.
This active and intelligent cat needs lots of attention and socialization. Abyssinians are also loyal, social, and affectionate making them great family pets. They’re also low maintenance as their short hair requires minimal grooming.
#5 Munchkin
- Height: 6-9 inches
- Weight: 6-9 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Personality: Friendly, affectionate, adaptable
Fast and furious despite her short legs, the Munchkin cat is a cute and friendly furball. The cat is considered the original dwarf cat due to her short legs that are as a result of a genetic mutation.
Munchkin cats come in many colors and patterns including orange.
Munchkins may be small in size but they’re big on personality. These cats are people-oriented and cannot stand being alone for long periods. They are outgoing and get along well with people, dogs, and other cats.
Additionally, munchkin cats are curious and active and you’ll find them roaming all over the house. They are also attracted to shiny things and will always steal or hide your jewelry.
Unfortunately, these cats are susceptible to mobility issues due to their short legs.
#6 Maine Coon
- Height: 10-16 inches
- Weight: 8-18 pounds
- Lifespan: 10-13 years
- Personality: Playful, affectionate and sweet-natured
Maine Coon is the oldest cat breed in North America and it’s also the official state cat of its homeland the US state of Maine.
The cat has a distinctive long coat and bushy tail. Maine Coons also hold the Guinness Book of World Records for being the longest cats.
Don’t let this cat’s big size fool you though as she is known for her easygoing and gentle nature. Due to her laidback personality, the Maine Coon is commonly nicknamed the gentle giant.
Maine coons are naturally very friendly cats with big hearts. Maine Coons also love water and may enjoy swimming from time to time.
Orange or brown Maine Coons are more common compared to other color variations. Some Orange Maine Coons have a ginger tabby coat while others are red.
#7 Bengal
- Height: 8-10 inches
- Weight: 8-15 pounds
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
- Personality: Intelligent, playful, sociable, affectionate
The Bengal cat is a hybrid of the Egyptian Mau, Asian leopard cat, and other domestic cats. If you’re looking for a cat with a wild appearance but a gentle personality then this is the cat for you.
The Bengal cat has a muscular and athletic body that closely resembles that of a leopard. Their leopard-like silky plush coat has spots of various colors including a tint of orange.
Bengal cats are active and playful making them suitable for homes with plenty of exploitation space.
Even though these furballs have a wild appearance, they are gentle, loyal, and affectionate. They can also swim but with close supervision.
#8 British Shorthair
- Height: 12-14 inches
- Weight: 7-17 pounds
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Personality: Calm, social, easy-going, intelligent
The British Shorthair’s round broad face, stocky body, and fluffy thick coat can be mistaken for that of a teddy bear. This cat was originally cherished for her physical strength and hunting prowess.
Notably, these felines are also famous for their blue grey coats which earned them the name British Blue.
However, currently British Shorthairs come in many colors including orange tabby. The orange British Shorthairs are extremely cute as some have deep orange eyes.
The British Shorthair’s social, friendly, and affectionate nature makes her one of the best companion for families. Besides, these cats aren’t demanding making them ideal for new cat owners.
#9 Exotic Shorthair
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Weight: 10-12 pounds
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
- Personality: Calm, friendly, loyal
The Exotic shorthair is a cross between Persian, British shorthair, and other shorthaired cat breeds. This cat looks very much like their Persian parent except for the short hair.
Interestingly, one in four Exotic Shorthairs has long hair since they carry a recessive copy of the longhair gene.
These lovable felines come in different colors including orange.
Exotics are gentle, calm, easy-going, and affectionate cats that get along well with children and other pets. They are playful and great entertainers making them the perfect family pets.
Moreover, these cats are fiercely loyal and great hunters. Even though they don’t demand lots of attention, they don’t like being left along for long hours. Just like their parent-the Persian, Exotic shorthairs are prone to respiratory problems due to their flat face.
A funny fact about this cat is that she is known as the lazy man’s cat because she is easy to maintain.
#10 Devon Rex
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Weight: 6-9 pounds
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
- Personality: Social, affectionate, active, energetic
Devon Rex has large rounded ears, large eyes, and large toes. These cats originated in Devonshire, England as a result of spontaneous mutation, when a curly-coated cat gave birth to a very odd-looking kitten called Kirlee.
The Devon Rex’s wedge-shaped head, thin wavy curly fur, and short curly whiskers give this cat a unique look. Some pet parents call it the alien cat due to her angular head shape, long ears, and large eyes.
The Devon Rex is a rare and pretty expensive breed. A kitten costs between $600 and $1000. Due to their thin coat, they are susceptible to sunburns and shouldn’t be left in the sun for long.
These wide-eyed adorable kitties come in various colors including orange.
Devon Rex cats love to play, snuggle and are very friendly. They are also great climbers and explorers.
Additionally, these cats have a mischievous side and are always getting in trouble due to their curiosity.
#11 American Bobtail
- Height: 9-10 inches
- Weight: 7-16 pounds
- Lifespan: 13-15 years
- Personality: Warm, friendly, playful, intelligent
The American Bobtail cat is easily recognizable by her wild appearance and short-bobbed tail.
This cat breed that was created by natural selection matures slowly with most of American Bobtail cats maturing at three years. They are relatively rare and often cost between $600 and $1200.
This cat breed comes in both short and long hair versions. Also, American Bobtail cats come in various colors including orange.
The American Bobtail is an intelligent cat with a dog-like personality. This cat loves to play fetch and walk on a leash. They are easygoing and fit well in homes with children and pets.
The playful and loving nature of the American Bobtail has earned her the nickname ‘golden retriever’.
#12 Chausie
- Height: 20-22 inches
- Weight: 15-25 pounds
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Personality: Intelligent, inquisitive, outgoing, assertive
The Chausie cat is one of the largest domestic cat breeds. The cat is a hybrid cross of domestic and jungle cats resulting in a loyal, easy-going, and people-oriented cat that has a wild appearance.
Notable physical features of this cat include a triangular face, big ears, short hair, a long tail, and a slender muscular body. The Chausie cat comes in different coat colors including orange.
Despite their wild appearance, the Chausie cats are affectionate, social, and good-natured felines. They get along well with dogs and other cats.
In addition, Chausie cats love climbing and hunting and will often bring home rats, birds and other small prey. This curious and energetic cat breed should be provided with plenty of exercise and fun activities to keep her entertained.
Due to her huge size, this cat will rarely get intimated by other animals.
#13 Somali
- Height: 7-11 inches
- Weight: 6-10 pounds
- Lifespan: 11-16 years
- Temperament: Social, bold, playful, active
The Somali cat has large almond-shaped eyes, oval paws, and a long bushy tail. This furball is athletic and muscular with a wild appearance that closely resembles that of the Abyssinian cat. The Somali cat’s bushy tail has earned her the nickname ‘fox cat’.
These cats come in 28 coat colors including orange. The Somali orange cat has a warm and glowing orange coat with dark shades along the spine and tail.
The Somali is an intelligent cat that can easily learn tricks such as knocking or opening doors. Their energy and playfulness nature means you may need to keep them occupied with interactive play or cat toys.
Somali cats are also curious and love being involved in everything. Also, these cats love attention and are very demanding.
Orange Cats Facts
Here are five surprisingly orange cats’ facts.
There Are No Solid-Colored Orange Cats
There are no solid orange cats due to the agouti gene which is responsible for coat color variations in mammals. An orange tabby cat will always have some pattern on her coat. The four unique orange cat coat patterns are mackerel, classic, tickled, and spotted.
A mackerel striped cat looks like a tiger with an ‘M’ shaped marking on her forehead. A classic striped cat is either swirled, marbled, or blotched and has a tie-dye look. Spotted kitties have spots on their coat while ticked cats have a sand-like appearance as they have no stripes or spots on their bodies.
Orange Fur Equals Red Hair
Orange color ranges from reddish-orange to yellowish-cream. This is because of the pheomelanin pigment which is responsible for the variation of the orange hue. The same pigment is also responsible for red hair in humans.
Most Orange Cats are Males
The orange coloration in cats is linked to the X chromosome sex gene. Female cats possess two X chromosome genes while males possess XY chromosomes.
Male cats need to have one gene from their mothers to get an orange coat while female cats require two genes for the same. Because of this, more than 80 percent of orange cats are male.
Orange Cats have ‘M’ marking on their forehead
All tabby cats have the letter ‘M’ on their foreheads. In fact, this is the true marking of a tabby cat. Myths and legends claim that the letter ’M’ represents the Virgin Mary or Mohamed- the founder of Islam.
According to science, the ‘M’ marking is the same gene that gives these cats their tabby pattern.
Most Celebrity Cats are Orange
Several orange cats have featured in popular films. Some of these tabby cats that have stolen the hearts of many and become household names include Garfield, Crookshanks, Milo, Jones, Puss in Boots, Spot, and Heathcliff.
Winston Churchill also had a special orange cat named Jock.
You can’t help but fall in love with these cats warm orange coat color. Besides, there’s something special and irresistible about tabby cats.
So, do you one of these tabby cat breeds for a pet?
What do you love about her or him?
We’d love to hear from you. Feel free to talk to us in the comments section below
