Dubbed tortoiseshell cats because their coats feature a mixture of brown, red, black, and amber patches, these kitties — who are almost always female because their unique coloring requires two X chromosomes — are known as “torties” by their adoring fans. Torties are equal parts sassy and sweet, and their fun and feisty personality is often referred to as “tortitude.”
According to research, torties can be a bit more challenging than many of their counterparts, but the people who share their homes with tortoiseshell cats appreciate their fiery ways! To celebrate these remarkable beauties who know exactly what they want and when they want it, here are some adorable tortie kittens being ridiculously cute. We’ve even included a few kitties who have a lighter version of the traditional coloring, commonly known as dilute tortoiseshell cats.