How are Burmese cat colors designated? - briefly
The color designation of Burmese cats is based on their coat color, with four recognized shades: sable (brown), champagne (beige), blue (gray), and platinum (light gray). Additionally, there are variations such as tortoiseshell, which combines two or more colors.
How are Burmese cat colors designated? - in detail
The color designation of Burmese cats is a subject of intricate detail, governed by specific genetic factors and historical breeding practices. The Burmese cat is renowned for its distinctive coat color, which is determined by a unique gene known as the albinism series gene (C). This gene regulates the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme crucial for melanin synthesis.
The standard colors recognized for Burmese cats include sable, champagne, blue, and platinum. Each color is a result of specific alleles within the C series gene, which control the level of pigment production in the cat's fur. The sable color, often considered the classic Burmese shade, is characterized by a rich, warm brown hue. This color is attributed to the presence of the wild-type allele (C) or the chinchilla allele (c^ch^).
The champagne color, which is lighter and more yellowish than sable, is associated with the burmese allele (cb). Champagne Burmese cats have a coat that appears creamy or beige, with a noticeably lighter shade compared to their sable counterparts. The blue color in Burmese cats is a result of the dilute allele (d), which reduces the intensity of pigmentation. Blue Burmeses exhibit a light grayish-blue coat, often described as a cool and elegant shade.
The platinum color is the result of both the burmese allele (cb) and the dilute allele (d) being present together. Platinum Burmese cats have an extremely light coat, almost white in appearance, with a hint of cream or pale yellow undertones. This color is relatively rare and highly sought after by breeders and enthusiasts alike.
In addition to these primary colors, there are also variations within each category, such as the dark sable or the warm champagne, which can be attributed to modifier genes that influence the final expression of the coat color. The Burmese cat's unique coloring is a testament to the intricate interplay between genetics and breeding practices, resulting in a beautiful and diverse range of shades within this elegant feline breed.