The Felis catus, commonly referred to as the domestic cat or house cat, is a small carnivorous mammal of the family Felidae. Cats have been domesticated for nearly 10,000 years becoming popular pets, valued for companionship and for their skill in hunting mice and rats. They are independent animals and look after themselves without the need for much attention. They are generally quiet and well-behaved possessing quick reflexes, sharp teeth, well-developed night vision and a strong sense of smell. Basic communication includes vocalisations such as meowing, purring, hissing and growling. MaltaPost launches a new set of postage stamps to celebrate the love of cats in the Maltese Islands. The collection of 4 stamps was painted by local artist Andrew Micallef.
The 0.20 stamp shows a close-up of an orange cat sitting relaxed in the countryside with a view of the old city of Cittadella in the background. The cat is of the calico long-haired type identified by its tri-colour coat of white, orange and black fur. Cats with calico colouration are believed to bring good luck and are almost exclusively female.
A white tabby cat is depicted on the 0.45 stamp, lying down at the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, with the parish church of Our Lady of Pompei towering above the houses. Tabby cats may have a variety of colours and patterns, including the classic "mackerel" tabby pattern with narrow stripes. The combination of a tabby pattern with white paws and a white chest are referred to as a "tabby and white" cat.
The 1.00 stamp shows a painting of an orange tabby cat posing on an outdoor wrought iron bench, with the chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes standing on the promontory overlooking Mgarr Harbour. Tabbies, often nicknamed "ginger", are known for their striped coats and, while they come in a wide variety of colours, the orange tabby is the most popular. Garfield, the lasagna-loving fictitious cat character, is one of the most famous orange tabby cats.
The 1.91 stamp features a long-haired Tuxedo cat with the village of Siggiewi and its parish church, St Nicholas, in the distance. Tuxedo cats have a prominent bicolour pattern of black-and-white that is reminiscent of formal wear for men. "Felix" and "Sylvester" are famous Tuxedo cat characters created in the fantasy world of cartoon animations.
