Tabby cats have lifespans ranging from 12 to 18 years on average. However, individual lifespans can vary based on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, healthcare, and overall lifestyle. Providing proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to helping cats of all breeds live long and healthy lives.

While each cat has a distinctive coat, most tabby cats are shades of orange, gray, and brown.

No, tabby cats can have different markings. There are five common tabby coat patterns.

• Blotched tabby: The blotched tabby is the most iconic pattern; it’s sometimes called the “classic tabby” and refers to the whorls of stripes that create a shape that looks like a target.

• Mackerel tabby: The pattern on a mackerel tabby is similar to tiger stripes, with rings around the tails and legs and bands of solid or broken stripes covering the rest of their bodies.

• Spotted tabby: Named for the telltale spots that dot their bodies, the spots on these cats are different sizes and often line up to form bands, making them look similar to the broken stripes on mackerel tabby cats.

• Patched tabby: As their names suggest, patched tabbies have patches of color on their coats. The patches might be dark brown, gray-brown, red, or orange and are arranged in tabby patterns on their bodies. Patched tabbies are also known as Tortoiseshell tabbies. 

• Ticked tabby: It’s almost impossible to pick out the tabby pattern in their fur, but each hair has bands of light and dark coloring. Cats with the ticked pattern are also known as Abyssinian or agouti tabby cats.

Tabby cats come in all sizes, depending on their breed. When it comes to cats with tabby coats, American Shorthair cats are the smallest and weigh between eight and 12 pounds, while Maine Coon cats are the largest and can weigh between eight and 18 pounds.

Yes, tabby cats shed. Shedding is based on breed, genetics, and coat type, not coat color or pattern. How much tabby cats shed depends on their genes. Breeds like Abyssinian, Maine Coon, and Persian with tabby coat patterns can be moderate to heavy shedders, especially during spring and fall.

Yes, tabby cats can be good with dogs. Cats are independent creatures, and their willingness to accept canine company comes down to their individual personalities. Tabby cats who are introduced to respectful dogs as kittens are more apt to live in harmony with dogs; socialization and training (of both cats and dogs) can help older tabby cats adjust to being around dogs.

Like “tuxedo” and “calico,” the tabby label refers to a cat’s coat, not their breed. “Tabby” refers to the random patterns of stripes, swirls, spots, and blotches in a cat’s coat. So, there is no one-size-fits-all description of tabby cats; their sizes and colors are as unique as their coat patterns. While a tabby’s appearance varies, one shared characteristic is their forehead's distinct “M” pattern.

No, tabby cats are very common. The tabby pattern gene is seen often among all domestic cats. Some tabby cat breeds include Abyssinian, American Bobtail, American Curl, American Shorthair, Bengal, Domestic Shorthair, Egyptian Mau, Exotic, Maine Coon, Ocicat, Oriental, Persian, Ragdoll, Rex, and Siberian.

Yes, tabby cats can be friendly. Because the tabby coat pattern is found in multiple breeds of cats, it’s important to remember that a tabby cat’s personality depends on the individual cat, genetics, and life experiences. Tabby cats may be aloof and independent or friendly and affectionate.

Yes, tabby cats can be good family pets. Tabby cats have personalities as distinct as their coat patterns. Each cat breed with a tabby coat pattern has a different temperament that impacts how well-suited they are to family life. For example, tabby Persian and Maine Coon cats love attention and want to be much-loved family members, while Bengal cats are more independent and less accepting of affection.

Yes, tabby cats can be trained. Tabby cats can be trained to use litter boxes or do more advanced tricks like high fives and rolling over. They learn best with consistent training, positive reinforcement, and rewards.

Tabby cats, like all cats, have individual personalities. Some love to be held and cuddled, while others prefer their personal space. It’s best to observe a cat’s body language and respect their preferences, gradually building trust and comfort if they are initially hesitant.

No, tabby cats are not hypoallergenic. Cat allergies are caused by proteins found in their saliva, skin (dander), and urine. While some people might have fewer allergic reactions to certain cats, no cat is completely hypoallergenic.

Tabby cats can be diagnosed with the same common health issues that affect all cats, including:

• Obesity: Tabby cats are at risk of becoming overweight or obese, increasing their risk of developing diseases like arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Keep their weight in check by measuring food portions, limiting treats, and encouraging exercise through active play.

• Hyperthyroidism: This common endocrine disease leads to excess levels of hormones in the thyroid glands, causing tabby cats to have increased appetite, unexplained weight loss, hyperactivity, frequent urination, vomiting, and rapid heart rate. Medication is often enough to control hyperthyroidism, which is commonly diagnosed in middle age, but surgery is sometimes needed.

It’s important to remember that just because a cat might have an increased risk for certain health conditions doesn’t mean they will develop them. Your veterinarian can help you keep an eye out for possible health problems with regular checkups.