This calico cat's unique face markings make her look like she's always smiling

Some cats have coat patterns like works of art. From spots and stripes to patches and smudges, a feline's fur can resemble a stunning mosaic with vibrant colors and flecks so striking you'll do a double take.

Snickers the calico cat is a perfect example of this type of marbled artistry. Her facial markings alone make this pretty kitty stand out in a crowd.

In the TikTok from @snickersthesmilingcat, the captivating calico was curled up in a cozy comforter getting in some "me time." The markings on Snickers's face were almost like a patchwork quilt, interspersed with splotches of honey-cinnamon, black, and white surrounding two piercing green eyes.

Her nose was covered in midnight black fur, standing out from the rest of her face. Yet what was most noticeable was the literal smile on Snickers's face. The formation of colors framed around her mouth made her appear like she had a welcoming grin.

"Sending you a smile in case your day has been heavy," the on-screen text shared.

Many followers posted their appreciation for brightening their day with the feline fur baby's friendly greeting.

Why No Two Calico Cats Ever Look Exactly Alike

A calico's coat coloring is determined during pregnancy through a process called X-inactivation. The developing kitten's body randomly 'shuts off' either the orange or black gene in different groups of cells responsible for fur growth.

The areas where the black gene is active grow black fur, and the areas where the orange gene is active produce orange fur. White fur is the result wherever neither gene activates. This process makes each calico cat truly unique.

Calicos are usually female and are often confused with Tortoiseshell cats, yet there is a definitive difference. A calico coat has large patches of black and orange fur, separated by white fur. Tortoiseshell cats have mottled markings like calicos, but without white fur.

Related: Calico Cat Spends 13 Years on the Streets — Her First Safe Sleep in a Real Home Says It All

Calico is not a breed of cat, so you can get the same coloring in various breeds including:

• Persian
• Maine Coon
• American Shorthair
• Manx
• Scottish Fold
• Siberian
• Sphynx

Snickers beautifully represents the charm of a calico and adds her own extra touch with that winning smile.

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