What is the name of the white coat color in cats? - briefly
The white coat color in cats is commonly referred to as "white." This color can appear in various breeds and is often associated with striking blue or odd-eyed cats.
What is the name of the white coat color in cats? - in detail
The white coat color in cats is commonly referred to as "white." This coloration is one of the most recognizable and is often associated with various breeds, although it can appear in mixed-breed cats as well. The genetics behind a cat's white coat are fascinating and involve several genetic mechanisms.
One of the primary genetic factors contributing to a cat's white coat is the presence of the dominant white gene (W). This gene can mask the underlying coat color and pattern, resulting in a completely white appearance. The W gene is part of the KIT locus, which is responsible for the development of melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment. When the W gene is present, it can inhibit the migration of melanocytes to the skin, leading to a lack of pigmentation and thus a white coat.
Another genetic factor that can contribute to a white coat is the presence of the piebald gene (S). This gene is responsible for the piebald pattern, which results in patches of white fur interspersed with colored patches. In some cases, the piebald gene can result in a mostly white coat with only small patches of color.
It is also worth noting that white cats can have different eye colors. Blue eyes are commonly associated with white cats, particularly those with the dominant white gene. However, white cats can also have green, yellow, or odd-eyed (one blue eye and one of another color) appearances. The eye color in white cats is determined by the same genetic factors that influence eye color in cats of other colors.
White cats can be found in various breeds, including the Turkish Angora, the Persian, and the British Shorthair, among others. Each breed may have its unique characteristics and standards, but the white coat is a defining feature. Additionally, white cats are often associated with certain cultural and symbolic meanings, such as good luck in some cultures.
In summary, the white coat color in cats is the result of specific genetic factors, primarily the dominant white gene and the piebald gene. These genes influence the development of melanocytes and the distribution of pigment in the cat's fur, leading to a white appearance. White cats can be found in various breeds and can have different eye colors, adding to their unique and recognizable appearance.