Who is a shell cat? - briefly
A shell cat is an animal that has evolved to have a hard outer layer, or shell, for protection and support. This unique adaptation allows shell cats to inhabit various environments, including both land and water.
Who is a shell cat? - in detail
A shell cat, also known as a Russian Blue or Maltese Cat, is a distinctive feline breed recognized for its unique coat color and pattern. The term "shell cat" originates from the specific way their fur grows and sheds, which creates a distinct pattern resembling a seashell or a tortoiseshell. This characteristic coat pattern is a result of the interaction between two different genes that control fur color: one gene determines whether the cat's fur is orange (O) or not (o), while another gene determines the type of black pigment present in the fur, either eumelanin (B) or phaeomelanin (b).
When a cat inherits two copies of the recessive allele for orange coloration (oo), and one copy of each allele for the coat pattern gene (Bb), it results in a shell cat. The fur grows initially with a base color determined by the black pigment gene, usually gray or blue. As the cat ages, the fur begins to shed and regrow, revealing patches of orange or cream-colored fur due to the influence of the recessive orange allele. This process creates a unique mosaic pattern on the cat's coat, similar to the markings found on seashells or tortoiseshells.
The shell cat's distinctive appearance is not only visually striking but also genetically intriguing. The specific combination of genes that produce this coat pattern is relatively rare, making shell cats a fascinating and sought-after breed among feline enthusiasts. Despite their unique appearance, shell cats exhibit typical cat behaviors and require the same level of care and attention as other domestic cat breeds.