Here's a breakdown:
* Genetics: The stripes are caused by a gene called agouti, which affects the distribution of pigment in their fur. The agouti gene comes in different forms, leading to different tabby patterns.
* Pattern Diversity: There are several tabby patterns:
* Classic Tabby: They have broad, swirling stripes that often look like an "M" on their forehead.
* Mackerel Tabby: These cats have thin, vertical stripes that run the length of their body.
* Ticked Tabby: These cats have a lot of small, broken stripes that look like freckles.
* Spotted Tabby: Some tabbies have spots instead of stripes.
* Evolutionary Purpose: Some scientists believe the stripes might have evolved to help cats camouflage in their natural environments, making it easier for them to hunt or hide from predators.
So, while the stripes don't carry a specific message, they do tell us about the cat's genetics and perhaps offer a hint about their evolutionary past!