Long-Haired Calico Cat: Can Calico Cats Have Long Hair?

A cute adult long haired calico cat lies in the garden

Cat fanatics have heard the term “calico,” but not everyone is familiar with the long-haired calico cats. They are vibrant and eye-catching tri-colored cats with long coats that are delightful family companions.

If you desire a lot of affection and don’t mind taking care of cats with long coats, this feline is perfect for you. Calico cats come in all shapes and sizes and even fur lengths.

There’s so much to talk about these cats — from appearance and genetics down to health issues, costs, and many more.

If you don’t want to miss any information about long-haired calico cats, stick around and keep reading.

What Is a Long-Haired Calico Cat? Can Calico Cats Have Long Hair?

Tricolor long haired calico cat outdoors in green garden

A long-haired calico cat is a cat with calico patterns on its long fur. These patterns are tricolored, mainly a combination of orange, black, and white. The length of their coat varies depending on the breed; however, their fur is always straight regardless.

It is important to note that the term “calico” refers to the fur pattern or patches, not the type of fur, as they get confused a lot — and yes, calico cats have long-haired variants.

The vibrant color of long-haired calicoes is generally solid in color, and these patches are not spread uniformly on the body.

Each calico cat may have uniquely different placements of the patches and may appear random.

Additionally, genetics play a crucial role in both fur color and length, which will be discussed more in later sections. Moreover, another interesting fact is that 95% of long-haired calicoes are likely to be females.

Males are considered rare for these cats since they result from genetic mutations. Moreover, a male long-haired calico cat is most likely to be sterile.

These fluffy calico cats can also have another variation that makes their fur pattern slightly lighter than the solid colors of calicoes. They may be ubiquitous, and they are appropriately called diluted calico cats.

Are Long-Haired Calico Cats Rare?

Long haired calico cat close up portrait

The long hair calico fur is not breed-specific. Therefore they can appear in several breeds, especially popular and common ones.

It is not a deformity or a rare genetic condition, so this long-haired cat may be widespread globally.

In fact, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognizes several long-haired cat breeds as standards of the calico pattern. A few of those breeds are Maine Coons, Norwegian Forests, and American Curls.

However, male calico cats have been noted to be rare, as mentioned previously.

Furthermore, certain types of calico cats, such as the diluted variants, may be less common than others, but that doesn’t mean that they are less rare.

READ NEXT: Dilute Calico Cat: What Makes Their Coat Aesthetically Muted?

Long-Haired Calico Cat Breeds

Since long-haired calico cats refer to the tricolor pattern of a cat breed, you may be curious about specific breeds that may have it.

Here’s an overview of some long-haired calico cat breeds and what they may look like.

1. Maine Coon

Long haired calico Maine Coon cat

A Maine Coon calico cat will have a mixture of white, orange, and black patches on its fur, and the distribution of color will depend on the inherited dominant color gene from its parents.

The calico pattern can be classified as dense if it’s intensely vibrant and solid or diluted if the orange hues appear as cream, and the black pigments become blue tinges.

Moreover, these patches are seen throughout the cat’s fur, including the distinct lion-like manes Maine Coon cats have.

2. Norwegian Forest Cat

Long haired calico Norwegian Forest cat

Norwegian Forest cats can be compared to Maine Coons due to their large size and long coats. Their calico colors may also look closely similar to an untrained eye.

However, distinct characteristics may set them apart, such as the Maine Coon’s lion-like mane and the Norwegian Forest’s visible dip at the edge of their muzzles.

Either way, the tricolored patches are visually solid. The dominating pigment will solely depend on the inherited traits from its parents.

Others may have more black patches, while some retain most of their white fur.

3. Turkish Angora

Long haired calico Turkish Angora cat

Turkish Angora calico cats have the same tricolor coat. However, since this breed is widely recognized for its white coats, the white color from the calico patches may appear dominant.

Furthermore, they may also appear in the mixed pattern colors of cream or gold and slate if they are diluted variants.

Aside from that, these cats are tall and medium-sized. They also sport a delicate appearance.

4. American Curl

Long haired calico American Curl cat

American Curl cats have a unique appearance due to their wedge-shaped heads and distinct curled ears. Those with the calico pattern are more vibrant and striking.

As mentioned above, the calico pattern will not be uniformly distributed, but they will appear as solid colors depending on dominant parent genes.

Overall, they have beautiful and silky long coats and well-plumed tails, and they have that sweet and open expression that melts the heart of cat enthusiasts.

Long-Haired Calico Cat Genetics

A beautiful long haired calico cat laying at an angle

When it comes to long-haired calico cats, it is essential to understand that the length of the hair will solely depend on the specific breed of the cat. Hair length is not affected in any way by the calico patterns.

The calico is simply a fur pattern, and it can exist in both short and long-haired cats. Therefore, the long hair gene will only show depending on the particular cat breed. 

Genetically, calico fur colors are transmitted through the X chromosomes from the parent to the kitten.

Since female cats receive X chromosomes from both their parent breeds, they exhibit all three colors: white, orange, and black.

In contrast, males receive an X chromosome from their mother and a Y chromosome from their father. Moreover, in some cases, they can get an XXY configuration, a type of genetic mutation.

Since the X chromosome is responsible for the calico colors and males only receive one of them, they can only exhibit either orange or black patches, but rarely both.

Furthermore, male calicoes are mostly sterile. That’s why females dominate males by 95% in existence.

Long-Haired Calico Cat Shedding

Long-haired calico cats shed depending on the breed. Generally speaking, most cats with long fur coats do shed in clumps. That’s why we can say that they do shed more, but they shed less frequently.

Since they won’t shed all year heavily, maintaining their furs won’t be much work. Regular brushing and grooming should be enough to avoid matted hairs and minimize cases of hairballs.

It is also crucial to know what’s normal and what’s not when it comes to cat shedding.

As a quick tip for pet owners, combing big knots of fur in your cat may be uncomfortable, and they may often resist it. 

It’s best just to cut them off than to comb them forcefully. You can always seek the help of a professional groomer, too.

Long-Haired Calico Temperament and Personality

Calico cat with long hair and tabby pattern sitting outside on deck

Long-haired breeds with calico furs are usually affectionate, loyal, playful, and brilliant pets. Generally, they are friendly to other pets and kids, making them fantastic family companions.

However, you must understand that specific cat breeds have differences in temperament. It is essential that they get socialized to exhibit appropriate behavior at an early age.

Furthermore, these long-haired calico cats are fast learners and will respond well to training, so you won’t really have to worry about that. You just have to dedicate time and effort to actually help them learn.

Another outstanding characteristic that long-haired calico cats have is their neatness. They are not hard to maintain despite their long coats, and like other cats, they are capable of grooming themselves.

Check out this adorable video of a long-haired calico cat enjoying an outdoor walk independently:

Long-haired Calico cat taking a walk in the garden

Long-Haired Calico Cat Lifespan and Health Issues

Cat breeds with long-haired calico coats have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, and they are generally healthy.

Depending on how dedicated you are to giving them adequate care and vet needs, some can even live up to 20 years.

Furthermore, despite being healthy cats, there are some health conditions that long-haired calico cats may be prone to:

  • Klinefelter’s Syndrome: This genetic issue is commonly found in male calico cats. Klinefelter’s syndrome occurs in a long-haired calico cat with an XXY chromosome configuration. This may progress to having cognitive and developmental issues that may result in heart and joint problems and diabetes.
  • Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD): This condition is common in most cats, including long-haired calico cats. Symptoms of FLUTD include painful, frequent, and bloody urination. This may be caused by stress, diet, and obesity.
  • Hairballs: Hairballs are usually common in long-haired calico cat breeds, and it’s likely caused when a cat is grooming itself. These are large clumps of undigested hair that can block a cat’s intestinal tracts, and in worse cases, they can be deadly, especially if they don’t get regurgitated.

To keep your cat in tip-top shape, you should not take regular vet visits for granted.

You should never forget that prevention is better than cure. It does not only save you money, but it can also save your pet cat’s life.

How Much Does a Long-Haired Calico Cat Cost? Kitten Prices & Expenses

Long haired calico kitten for sale and adoption

Depending on the specific breed, long-haired calico cats from reputable breeders may cost between $400 and $2,000. According to some catteries, males are priced higher than females since they are rarer.

However, since there is currently no known breeder specializing in male long-haired calico cats, it is pretty challenging to find one.

If you want a cheaper option, adopting one may save you money, and you get to give a cat another chance at life.

Adopting a long-haired calico cat may cost you around $60 to $200, depending on the rescue shelter or organization.

Here’s a list of initial expenses you should consider before acquiring a long-haired calico cat:

Type of ExpenseCost
Food and Treats$20 – $50
Food and Water Bowls$10 – $25
Litter Box$20 – $160
Litter Sand$15 – $25
Collar and ID Tag$5 – $20
Cat Bed$15 – $30
Cat Carrier$20 – $60
Toys and Scratching Post$15 – $70
Grooming Essentials$25 – $35
Initial Vet Visits$100 – $250
Initial Vaccine Shots$25 – $50
Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Medications$30 – $100
Neutering or Spaying$200 – $500
Microchip$40 – $60
Miscellaneous Supplies$15 – $30
Total Initial Cost$555 – $1,465

It is vital to know this information so you can initially assess and prepare for the cost of owning a long-haired calico coat. It can also contribute to a smoother transition of your cat’s life into your home.

Places to Find Long-Haired Calico Kittens for Sale and Adoption

In case you decide to acquire a long-haired calico kitten, we’re here to give you a headstart in your hunting journey.

Never forget to stay away from backyard breeders to ensure high-quality and healthy cats.

Here is a list of some trusted places where you can find long-haired calico kittens for sale:

  • Sassy Koonz – This cattery is specialized in breeding all variants of the Maine Coon breed, including the calico variant. They have a five-year health guarantee and DNA records of the parent breeds. You can also benefit from lifetime pet support once you purchase a kitten.
  • Skogberg Cattery – This is a TICA/CFA registered cattery that exclusively breeds Norwegian Forest Cats, including calicos. They fulfilled the requirements for CFA’s highest recognition. All of their kittens get to enjoy a large outdoor space free from predators and threats.
  • GoKitty – GoKitty features reputable breeders and helps connect aspiring owners to them. They have different long-haired calico cats for sale in their directories, such as Norwegian Forest cats and Maine Coons. You can also input your location for a much easier search.

Meanwhile, here is a list of adoption services and websites where you can possibly adopt a long-haired calico cat:

  • Western Illinois Animal Rescue – This is a rescue organization located in Illinois. They cater both to cats and dogs in all breeds and fur colors. They were founded in 2000 and have been saving animal lives for years now. They are also a no-kill shelter, and they have rehomed countless rescues.
  • Southern Counties Rescue – This is another no-kill shelter dedicated to all cats and kittens in need of help, including calico cats. Though the short-haired variety is much more common, long-haired calico cats get rehomed from time to time. You may contact them on their website for further inquiries about specific breeds.
  • Kitten Rescue – This rescue organization is located in Los Angeles and was founded around 1997. They have already rehomed over 21,000 kittens, some of which are long-haired calicos. With patience and effort, your next furry companion may be here, so it’s best if you keep in touch with them.

Adopting a long-haired calico cat may not be as easy since no rescue organization is solely dedicated to this variation. You will need a lot of mental and physical effort to find one.

To help you with your search, check out our article on the different ways to find free kittens in your area for adoption.

READ NEXT: 11 Ways to Find Free Kittens in Your Area for Adoption (2023)

Frequently Asked Questions

Portrait of a beautiful long hair calico cat outdoors in green nature

Are Long-Haired Calico Cats Always Female?

Long-haired calico cats are usually 95% female. However, though very difficult to breed, there is still the probability of producing a male long-haired calico cat.

This male long-haired calico cat is generally a genetic mutation and is usually sterile because of the XXY chromosomes and Klinefelter’s syndrome. That’s why they are nearly non-existent.

Are Long-Haired Calico Cats Hypoallergenic?

Unfortunately, long-haired calico cats are not hypoallergenic. However, they do not cause extreme allergic reactions for people who are sensitive to pet danders and have asthma.

It is still vital that you consult a doctor first if you are highly sensitive to pet fur. This is important to avoid pet neglect and abandonment cases.

Do Long-Haired Calico Cats Like to Cuddle?

Long-haired calico cats are very affectionate pets. However, even if they love cuddles and affection from their owners, it is vital to give them some independence and space to avoid cases of feline separation anxiety.

Final Thoughts: Is a Long-Haired Calico the Right Cat for You?

Long-haired calico cats are well-loved and recognized by cat lovers worldwide. They are great companions with excellent temperaments and brilliant minds.

They may require a little bit more effort to maintain than short-haired cats, but they are still quite manageable. 

Now that we’ve tackled everything you need to know about them, it is time to assess whether you’re the right owner for them.

As mentioned above, they have essential needs and non-negotiable demands to have a happy life. But overall, they are loyal pets who want nothing more than to give joy to their families.

If you think you are ready for the challenge and responsibility of owning a long-haired calico cat, let us know in the comments below. While you’re there, tell us why you adore these long-haired kitties!

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