When do a cat's eyes turn green? - briefly
A cat's eye color is determined by genetics and can change until they are about one year old. By this age, most cats with green eyes will have developed their final eye color.
When do a cat's eyes turn green? - in detail
A cat's eye color is determined by several factors, including genetics and the amount of melanin present in the iris. Green eyes are particularly fascinating because they are quite rare among cats, occurring in only about 10% of the feline population. The process of a cat's eyes turning green can be influenced by multiple factors.
Firstly, genetics play a crucial role in determining eye color. A cat's genetic makeup dictates whether it will have blue, green, or another color of eyes. In many cases, cats are born with blue eyes due to the presence of a specific protein called tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production. As the kitten grows older, the activity of this enzyme decreases, allowing other pigments to develop and change the eye color.
The amount of melanin in the iris is another key factor. Melanin is a pigment that gives color to the eyes, skin, and hair. In cats with green eyes, there is an intermediate amount of melanin present. This balance of melanin creates the distinctive green hue. If there is more melanin, the eyes may turn yellow or amber. Conversely, if there is less melanin, the eyes might remain blue.
Hormonal changes can also affect a cat's eye color over time. During puberty, hormonal fluctuations can lead to changes in eye pigmentation. Additionally, pregnancy and other significant life events may cause temporary alterations in eye color due to shifts in hormone levels.
Moreover, environmental factors such as light exposure can influence the appearance of a cat's eyes. The iris's ability to expand or contract (a process called dilation) in response to light can make the green color more or less prominent depending on the lighting conditions.
In summary, a cat's eyes turn green due to a combination of genetic predisposition, melanin levels in the iris, hormonal changes, and environmental factors. The intricate interplay of these elements results in the beautiful and unique green eye color that some cats possess.