Today is National Tortie Cat Day (or Tortoisehell Cat Appreciation Day). If you’ve ever had a tortie, you’re probably celebrating in your heart. I am.
What is a tortie (or tortoiseshell) cat? They sort of look like a calico without the white and the colors (black, grey, brown and a light or dark shade of orange) are not organized over the fur, but mixed all together forming a mottled look—dappled, speckled.
Some say torties are born with attitude—torti-tude. 
Those I’ve known had little minds of their own. Some torties are a bit sassy at times, but mostly, in my experience, they have a sweetness that is quite intriguing—and they’re smart. In my experience torties are smarter than the average cat and they know how to get what they want.
Fun facts: One in every 3,000 torties is a male.
Of course, tortoisehell is not a breed, but a color found in many breeds of cats
I mentioned torti-tude—torties can be feisty, some say unpredictable and certainly regal. I would describe our tortie, Sophie–who was with us for 18 years, as regal, sweet, and healthy. She never had a sick day in her long life, until her kidneys started to fail at age 18.
If you have a tortie, this is the day to lavish all of her favorite things on her. If she’s like most, she isn’t finicky, but she does have her likes and dislikes. One thing she probably adores is her brand of affection. It has been my experience that a tortie isn’t your typical cuddle cat. She makes the rules when it comes to affection. Yes, this cat is worth celebrating. (I miss you, Sophie.)
