Cat color like a lynx? - briefly
The coat of a cat resembling that of a lynx is often referred to as "tabby" or "wildcat-like." This pattern is characterized by distinctive stripes and spots, which are genetically determined and can vary in intensity and distribution among different breeds.
Cat color like a lynx? - in detail
The question of whether a cat can have the color of a lynx is intriguing and warrants a detailed exploration into the science behind feline coat genetics.
Firstly, it's essential to understand that both cats and lynxes belong to the family Felidae, which means they share many genetic similarities. The diversity in their fur colors and patterns is largely determined by specific genes, particularly those involved in pigment production.
One of the key genes responsible for coat color in felines is the Agouti gene (A). This gene controls the distribution and type of pigments in the hair shafts. In cats, the dominant allele of this gene typically results in a ticked or agouti pattern, where each hair has alternating bands of color, creating a tabby-like appearance. This is not too dissimilar from the coat patterns found in lynxes, which often exhibit a combination of brown and black stripes or spots against a lighter background.
Another crucial gene is the Melanocortin 1 Receptor (MC1R) gene, also known as the Extension locus (E). This gene regulates the amount and type of eumelanin (black/brown pigment) produced in the fur. The recessive allele at this locus (e) can lead to a dilution of the eumelanin, resulting in coat colors such as blue or lilac, which are not typically associated with lynxes but can be found in certain cat breeds.
The Taqpep gene, also known as the TaqMan assay, plays a role in determining whether the fur will have ticked (banded) hairs or non-ticked (solid) hairs. This gene is responsible for the presence of tabby patterns in cats and can influence the distribution of colors in a way that mimics the striped or spotted coats of lynxes.
Finally, the KIT gene, also known as the White Spotting gene (S), controls the development of melanocytes, which are cells responsible for producing pigments. Mutations in this gene can lead to white patches on the fur, a feature that is commonly seen in both domestic cats and lynxes.
In summary, while there is no single "lynx color" gene, the complex interplay of these genetic factors can result in cats exhibiting coat patterns and colors reminiscent of those found in lynxes. Breeders often select for specific combinations of these genes to produce cats with desirable coat appearances, including those that resemble the wild and exotic beauty of a lynx.