<P> Because genetic determination of coat colors in calico cats is linked to the X chromosome , calicoes are nearly always female , with one color linked to the maternal X chromosome and a second color linked to the paternal X chromosome . Because males only have one X chromosome , a male calico would have to have a rare condition where they have three sex chromosomes ( two X chromosomes and one Y chromosome ) in order to be calico . In addition to other symptoms caused by the condition , these male calicos are often sterile . </P>
<P> Because genetic determination of coat colors in calico cats is linked to the X chromosome , calicoes are nearly always female , with one color linked to the maternal X chromosome and a second color linked to the paternal X chromosome . Because males only have one X chromosome , a male calico would have to have a rare condition where they have three sex chromosomes ( two X chromosomes and one Y chromosome ) in order to be calico . In addition to other symptoms caused by the condition , these male calicos are often sterile . </P>
where do calico cats get their color from
where do calico cats get their color from
linked to the X chromosome
linked to the X chromosome