What is the breed of smoky cats called? - briefly
Smoky cats are often referred to as "smoke" or "smoke-colored" cats, which is a term used to describe their unique fur pattern rather than a specific breed. This coloration can appear in various breeds, such as the British Shorthair or the Persian.
What is the breed of smoky cats called? - in detail
The term "smoky cats" typically refers to cats with a specific coat color pattern rather than a distinct breed. This coloration is often described as "smoke" and is characterized by a solid or tabby base color with white or silver roots, creating a gradient effect that resembles smoke. This unique coat pattern can appear in various breeds, including the Persian, British Shorthair, Maine Coon, and Norwegian Forest Cat. The smoky effect is the result of a genetic trait known as the inhibitor gene, which restricts the production of pigment in the hair shaft, leaving the roots lighter. Cats with this pattern are often highly prized for their striking appearance. It’s important to note that while the smoky coloration is visually distinctive, it does not define a specific breed but rather a coat variation that can occur across multiple breeds. Breeders and enthusiasts often focus on maintaining this trait within their breeding programs to produce cats with the desired smoky appearance.