The colour of the Tortoise-shell should be red, black, and yellow or white. The markings constitute the principal features, and unless these are sharply and clearly defined the cat will be handicapped in the show pen.

The Dutch markings on the face are points of beauty, viz. the "blaze" or light triangular strip up the face, ending at the back of the neck.

The white feet and stops, with white chest, are essentials, but there is no collar as in the Dutch rabbit.

The white markings must not be fused with the body colour, whilst the line of delimitation must be sharp, for judges are keen upon quality in this respect, as so many Tortoise-shells are defective in this matter; in fact, it is one of the chief difficulties a breeder of Tortoise-shells has to contend against.

If there is no white, then the amount of black hair should be small, compared with the red and yellow markings. Uniformity of markings in size, etc., is of paramount importance, and a Tortoise-shell will never stand high up in the prize-list if deficient in' this respect. The eyes should be a dark amber - a light eye being a serious defect.

When selecting a sire or queen to breed from, endeavour to procure one particularly good in respect to its markings; but really good specimens are not easily obtained, and, when obtained, as a rule, command a high price.