Difference between classic & mackerel tabbies

[Sugar Plum]

Are the whorls on the sides of classic tabbies the main difference between the two patterns? Raphaela Puff has two ‘C’ like markings on her sides, near her hips. I’ll try again to get pictures, but she’s become too fast to photograph. I keep persevering, but come away with blurry images. She’s also getting much lighter in colour. The vet thinks she’s going to be a light grey tabby.

 

[lutece]

Yes, that is the most obvious difference. Mackerel tabbies have relatively narrow vertical stripes on their sides, and classic tabbies have broader swirls on their sides that can look similar to a "C".

From the picture of Raphaela Puff (the one in your profile picture), I agree that she appears to be blue classic tabby in color. I can see the swirling patterns on her sides that are indications of the classic tabby pattern. Very cute