What color kittens do white cats have? - briefly
White cats can have kittens of various colors, as coat color is determined by the genes of both parents. Their kittens may be white, black, or any other color, depending on the genetic makeup.
What color kittens do white cats have? - in detail
White cats can produce kittens of various colors, despite their own coat color. This phenomenon is primarily due to the genetics of coat color in felines. To understand the possible colors of kittens born to white cats, it is essential to delve into the genetic basis of feline coat colors.
Feline coat colors are determined by multiple genes, with the most significant being the melanocyte-stimulating hormone receptor (MC1R) gene and the agouti signaling protein (ASIP) gene. White cats can be white due to several genetic factors, including the presence of the dominant white gene (W), which can mask all other coat colors. However, this gene does not affect the underlying genetics of the cat's potential offspring.
When a white cat carries genes for other colors beneath its white coat, these genes can be passed on to its kittens. Therefore, the color of the kittens depends on the genetic makeup of both the white cat and the cat it is bred with. Here are some possible outcomes:
- Black or Blue (Dilute Black): If a white cat carries the gene for black fur, its kittens can be black if paired with a cat that also carries the black gene. Blue kittens result from the dilution of the black gene.
- Chocolate or Lilac (Dilute Chocolate): White cats can carry genes for chocolate fur, which can produce chocolate or lilac (dilute chocolate) kittens when paired with an appropriate mate.
- Red or Cream: The gene for red fur can also be present in white cats, leading to red or cream kittens, depending on whether the red gene is diluted.
- Tortoiseshell or Calico: If a white cat carries genes for both black and red fur, it can produce tortoiseshell or calico kittens, which have patches of black and red fur. The presence of the white spotting gene can also influence the distribution of these patches.
It is crucial to note that the specific colors and patterns of the kittens can vary widely based on the genetic diversity of the parents. Additionally, some white cats may carry genes for white spotting, which can result in kittens with white patches on their fur, regardless of their underlying coat color.
In summary, white cats can produce kittens of various colors, including black, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream, tortoiseshell, and calico. The exact colors depend on the genetic makeup of both the white cat and its mate. Understanding the genetic basis of feline coat colors can help predict the possible outcomes of litters from white cats.