How to Describe a Tabby

Tabby cats come in a variety of base colors and breeds. The appearance, size and shape of tabby markings can vary significantly within the designation. Spots, large mottled markings and markings so tiny they cannot be observed at a distance are all common within the tabby designation. Developing an accurate, comprehensive description of a tabby can arise from necessity or merely a desire to relay the appearance of a feline friend. Observe multiple characteristics to give a thorough description.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ensure the tabby has multi-colored markings in an irregular, ticked pattern. Ticked or spotted tabbies may only feature stripes on their legs or tail. To accurately describe these markings, assess the size, frequency and color. Countless marking variations exist among domesticated tabbies.

    • 2

      Assess the feline's base coat color and any other markings. Tabbies come in nearly every shade seen in domesticated cats. To describe the tabby accurately, categorize both the shade of the base coat and the color, shape and location of any other markings. Tabbies often have white or light-colored markings on the chest, face and stomach.

    • 3

      Include a description of the feline's coat length and breed. For many domesticated felines, the breed is unknown and they are simply categorized as domestic short hairs or domestic long hairs. Tabby markings can appear most distinctively on short-haired cats, but tabby markings appear on most breeds and all coat lengths.

    • 4

      Describe other characteristics of the tabby beyond their markings, color and breed. To provide a comprehensive description, include the cat's gender and whether or not they have been spayed or neutered. Include the most accurate estimate of the feline's weight possible and any available information on height and personality traits.