The Tortoiseshell Prince Prepared an Important Decree
A wide pale blue sash crosses the prince's navy coat from shoulder to waist, with a heavy gold epaulette and tassels at one shoulder and gold embroidery at the high collar. The tortoiseshell face is a swirl of black, orange and cinnamon, with a stripe of orange along the nose, and her amber eyes look sharply forward. Behind the prince, a Victorian room has green damask wallpaper, a stone cornice and a green velvet curtain. His mouth is set in a firm line, and he looks as though he is about to issue an important decree.
Tortoiseshell cats are mostly female, because the color pattern is linked to the X chromosome, and a male tortoiseshell is quite rare. People often speak of tortitude, a feisty, strong-willed personality, but every cat is different. A tortie may love to play one moment and demand quiet the next, and respecting those cues helps. A cat who is overstimulated may flick her tail or flatten her ears, and it is kind to pause. Provide hiding places, vertical space and regular play. Scratching is a natural behavior, so a sturdy post near her favorite spot keeps furniture safer. If your cat's behavior changes suddenly, ask your vet to check for medical causes.
The decree is simple: dinner at five, and the royal sofa is not to be shared. The court will comply.
