How do I know if my cat is a Tabby (pattern, not a breed)?

Look for: Distinctive "M" marking on forehead; Stripes, spots, or swirls; Found across many breeds; Common in domestic shorthairs. "Tabby" is a coat pattern, not a breed — the classic striped cat with an M-shaped marking on the forehead. Many breeds and house cats can be tabby.

What does a Tabby (pattern, not a breed)'s coat look like?

Striped, spotted, or swirled with "M" on forehead. Size: Medium.

Tabby (pattern, not a breed)

"Tabby" is a coat pattern, not a breed — the classic striped cat with an M-shaped marking on the forehead. Many breeds and house cats can be tabby.

Size

Medium

Coat

Striped, spotted, or swirled with "M" on forehead

Temperament

Varies — a coat pattern, not a breed

How to recognize a Tabby (pattern, not a breed)

Distinctive "M" marking on forehead
Stripes, spots, or swirls
Found across many breeds
Common in domestic shorthairs

Not sure if that’s your cat?

Snap a photo and Cat Identifier names the breed — or the mix — with a confidence score and care tips.

Identify a cat free

More breeds

Domestic Shorthair Maine Coon Siamese Persian Ragdoll Bengal British Shorthair Sphynx Scottish Fold