What is a black cat called? - briefly
A black cat is generally referred to as just that: a "black cat." There are no specific breeds or sub-breeds designated solely by their color; instead, it is simply a descriptive term for any cat with predominantly black fur.
What is a black cat called? - in detail
A black cat, while often referred to simply as a "black cat," can be more specifically described using various terms depending on its breed and genetics. In many cases, the term "Melanistic" is used to describe animals that exhibit excessive melanin production, leading to dark or black coloration. This trait can occur in several breeds of domestic cats, including the Bombay, which was selectively bred to have a black coat resembling that of a wild Indian cat known as the Asian leopard cat.
In addition to the term "Melanistic," some cat enthusiasts and breeders may refer to black cats by their specific breed names when they are purebred, such as a "Bombay" or "Scottish Fold." For mixed-breed cats with black coats, the designation is typically more straightforward, simply referring to them as "black cats."
It's important to note that the color of a cat's fur is determined by its genetics. The gene responsible for coat color in cats is known as the O (Orange) locus, and it can have several alleles: O (orange), o^b (burmese, which suppresses black pigment and allows orange to show), and o (non-agouti, which suppresses tabby patterns). A cat with two copies of the recessive allele o will be solid black.
Furthermore, the pattern of a cat's coat can also influence how it is described. For instance, a "black smoke" or "blue smoke" cat has a very light undercoat and a darker topcoat, giving the appearance of a smoky hue. This pattern is distinct from a solid black coat but still falls under the broader category of cats with predominantly black fur.
In summary, while a black cat can be referred to generically as such, more specific terms like "Melanistic," "Bombay," or "Scottish Fold" can provide a clearer description based on the cat's breed and genetic makeup.