Calico cat

A calico cat has a coat featuring large patches of white, black (or another dark color), and orange/ginger. Calico is a color pattern, not a breed.

Genetics

Because the gene responsible for orange versus black coloring is carried on the X chromosome, calico cats are almost always female. Male calicos are rare and usually the result of a genetic condition.

Cultural significance

Calico cats are considered good luck symbols in various cultures, notably in Japan, where the "maneki-neko" beckoning cat figure is often depicted as calico.