What is a white cat? - briefly
A white cat is a feline with a predominantly white coat, which can be due to genetics or albinism. These cats are often revered for their unique appearance and may have blue or odd-colored eyes, depending on their genetic makeup.
What is a white cat? - in detail
A white cat is a feline with a predominantly white coat, which can be due to several genetic factors. The striking appearance of these cats is often attributed to their unique pigmentation patterns.
The most common reason for a cat's white coat is the presence of the dominant W gene, which inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for color in fur. This gene can be present in various alleles, such as W/W (homozygous) or W/w (heterozygous), where "w" represents a recessive allele that allows some pigment production. In addition to the W gene, other modifier genes can influence the extent of white fur on a cat's body.
White cats are not limited to a single breed; they can be found across many different breeds and among non-pedigreed domestic cats. Some breeds known for their predominantly white coats include the Turkish Van, the Turkish Angora, and the Maine Coon. However, the term "white cat" is often used more broadly to describe any cat with a mostly white coat, regardless of its specific breed or genetic background.
It's worth noting that white cats may have varying degrees of pigmentation in their eyes, ranging from blue to green or even heterochromatic (different colors in each eye). Additionally, some white cats may exhibit patterns such as spots or patches of different colors on their coat, which can be due to the presence of other genetic factors influencing pigment distribution.
In conclusion, a white cat is characterized by its predominantly white fur, which is primarily determined by the W gene and modifier genes. These felines span various breeds and exhibit diverse eye colors and coat patterns, making them a fascinating subject in the world of genetics and feline biology.