If you’ve spent time on social platforms like TikTok, you’ve most likely seen kitties of the orange variety flexing their spicy sides. Here at Felix, we’ve dubbed this phenomenon Orange Cat Energy (OCE). The consensus seems to imply that orange cats are chaotic and, even worse, not very smart (albeit sweet and loving). But what exactly is OCE, and is it fact or just a myth? Let’s explore the behaviors behind these fabulous orange felines and whether there are actual scientific insights that support the existence of OCE.
What do the experts say?
There haven’t been many studies exploring cat behavior and coat color, but one survey does in fact dispel the correlation between behavior and coat color. Experts from the University of California found that while some stereotypes about cat behavior and coat color might hold a grain of truth—like non-agouti (solid-colored) cats being more friendly—the relationship isn’t as straightforward as people might think. They confirm that individual cats have unique personalities and behaviors that can be identified and somewhat predicted by their owners. However, it also highlights that not all stereotypes are accurate, as it found evidence challenging the idea that coat color alone determines a cat’s behavior.
Essentially, while there may be some patterns in behavior based on coat color, each cat is an individual, and broad stereotypes about behavior based on color can be misleading. Its more likely that the cat parents who attribute behavior to coat color may be biased by preconceived notions, such as those generated after watching videos of orange cats acting erratically.
This confirmation bias leads some to believe that the iconic orange coat is the cause of any chaotic behavior. But let’s be real—we all know that cats of every color have their share of the zoomies, knock over expensive items, and wage war against our bare ankles. This playful unpredictability is one of the many reasons why we love them.
Cat color can be tied to the sex of the cat
We’ve conceded that the coat doesn’t dictate the cat. But what else could be egging on the OCE rumors running rampant online? Well, here’s a fun fact: orange cats are generally always boys. According to BBC Science Focus Magazine, “The ‘ginger gene’ which produces the orange color is on the X chromosome. Females have two X chromosomes and so need two copies of this gene to become ginger, whereas males need only one. This means there are roughly three males to one female ginger cat. Ginger tom cats father tortoiseshell or ginger females. If both parents are ginger, then they will have all ginger kittens as well.”
So, cat people, is the myth of the chaotic orange cat more of a tale of naughty-whiskered boys?
Boys vs girls – what cat gender is better behaved?
At a surface level, male cats (after being neutered) are known to be cuddly, friendly sidekicks—with higher energy than female cats. Female cats are known to be a bit more aloof but keep their maternal instincts after spaying; typically the ones to cuddle up with you when you’re not feeling well.
But, this also isn’t scientific and can lead to unfair stereotypes. A cat’s genetics and the way you raise them shapes quite a bit of their personality. Why pass by a sweet female kitty in the shelter because you fear she may be aloof?
Just like the misconceptions surrounding black cats bringing bad luck, it’s unfair to assume and make choices based on oversimplifications of pet behavior based on internet content. Cat behavior is complex and can vary at a cellular level and be further influenced by the environment they’ve grown up in. We’re doing our feline friends a disservice by not getting to know them for who they are, gender and coat color aside.
Like people, cats can be quiet, rambunctious, shy, extroverted, playful, or lazy—and any number of wonderful qualities that make them inherently complex and unique.
The takeaways
While it’s fun to speculate about the quirks and idiosyncrasies of orange cats, it’s important to remember that every cat is an individual. By embracing the diversity of feline personalities beyond coat color, we can cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation for our little athletes.
So, is Orange Cat Energy a real phenomenon or just a figment of our imaginations? While the jury may still be out, one thing is clear: the world of orange cats is as diverse and complex as the rainbow of colors and patterns in their coats.
FAQs
The gene responsible for the orange color is sex-linked, resulting in a much higher likelihood that an orange cat will be male versus female. Although the research is far from definitive, male cats have been said to be slightly friendlier than female cats, which could explain the loving nature of orange cats.
Do orange tabby cats have health problems? ›
Tabby Cat Health
The health of Tabby cats can vary depending on their breed, but their average life expectancy can be upward of 15 years. The most common health conditions reported by ASPCA Pet Health Insurance pet parents with Tabby cats are hyperthyroidism, vomiting, urinary trouble, upset stomach, and weight loss.
What is the orange cat phenomenon? ›
According to the Internet meme archive Know Your Meme, "orange cat behavior" became popularized online around 2019 and continued after stories about viral orange cats, such as Jorts the Cat, increased. The stereotype suggests orange cats are "more chaotic, more affectionate and more stupid than other types of cats."
What does the orange cat energy mean? ›
So, in short, the orange cat symbolizes an optimistic will to lead the world to change, for the good of humanity and, of course, yourself. Those who have a ginger cat at home know: these animals give off beautiful energy, from which it is beneficial to draw inspiration.
Are orange cats autistic? ›
The short answer is no. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that cats can have autism.
What cat color is the friendliest? ›
When comparing the cats by coat color, gray cats had the highest scores for shyness, aloofness and intolerance, while orange cats had the highest scores for trainability, friendliness and calmness. Tabby cats had the highest scores for bold and active, tricolor cats for stubborn, and bicolor cats for tolerant.
What health problems do orange cats have? ›
Ginger cats are prone to obesity.
Even though the biggest snugglers and cutest lap buddies, tabbies tend to grow lazy over time. Do your due diligence and make sure your tabby's diet is well-balanced. Otherwise, you both would be dealing with a variety of health issues – joint damage, diabetes, maybe even cancer.
Are orange cats more prone to illnesses? ›
Unfortunately, orange cats tend to have more health issues than other cats. They can develop allergies that lead to skin issues and hair loss, but they're most commonly known for their weight issues. Orange tabbies are prone to obesity because of their love of food.
Are orange cats more prone to diabetes? ›
Genetics: Diabetes can occur in any cat breed, but orange cats and Burmese cats are the most likely. Gender: Neutered, male cats are more prone to diabetes than female cats. Obesity: Obesity is one of the main risk factors for diabetes in cats.
Are male cats more affectionate? ›
Male cats tend to be more social and affectionate with both humans and other cats. They commonly form strong bonds with other cats in the home, even when they are not from the same litter. Females, on the other hand, are often more standoffish. If you are looking for a cuddle bug, adopting a male may be your best bet.
Orange cats are often said to be particularly friendly. "There have been studies that have shown these cats tend to be the friendliest, calmest and easiest to train based on owner feedback," says Dr. Dwight Alleyne, veterinarian and expert for JustAnswer.
Are orange cats usually male? ›
About 81 percent of orange cats are male, says Bell. While female cats will inherit an orange coat only if they carry the orange gene on both X chromosomes, if a male carries the orange gene at all, he will be orange, says Konecny.
Is orange cat Energy real? ›
The fact is, at least according to science, there is no such thing as orange cat behavior. “To date, no studies have shown any impact of coat color on personality in cats,” veterinary behaviorist Dr.
Do cats match your energy? ›
You see, someone with a high and positive energy will feed that energy to their cat. In turn, the kitty will likely have a more happy and positive demeanor as well. The study also showed that pets 'that were anxious or aggressive had owners that possessed more negative personality traits.
Why do people want orange cats? ›
Many people perceive orange tabbies as affectionate and loving cats. Perhaps it's because they are drawn to the bright colors of their fur and tend to play and pet them more. Either way, thanks to this perception, ginger felines are more likely to be adopted than cats of other colors.
Is there anything different about orange cats? ›
As much as we'd love to put them in a category all their own, orange cats don't qualify as their own distinct breed. Instead, orange fur is just one coat variety found in a number of breeds, with shades ranging from creamy pastel to a sun-soaked tangerine.
How long do orange cats live? ›
How long does an orange tabby cat live? Generally speaking, the average indoor housecat has a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. Providing your tabby with a healthy diet and routine veterinary care can help maximize his lifespan.
Why are orange cats so rare? ›
As female cats have two X chromosomes and males have an X and a Y chromosome, this means that a female cat needs to inherit two orange genes in order to be orange in color (one from each parent) whereas a male cat only needs to inherit one.
