1. What is Cat Coat Genetics?

Cat coat genetics determine the appearance of a cat's fur. Multiple genes control color, pattern, length, and texture. This calculator focuses on basic color and pattern genetics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses known genetic interactions to predict possible coat colors and patterns:

Key genetic factors considered:

• Primary color alleles (B/b/bl)
• Dilution gene (D/d)
• Agouti gene (A/a) for tabby patterns
• Sex chromosomes for color-linked traits

3. Importance of Coat Prediction

Details: Understanding coat genetics helps breeders predict offspring colors, identify rare combinations, and avoid undesirable traits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Select known alleles from genetic testing or pedigree information. For unknown alleles, use most common variants (B, D, A).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why doesn't my cat's color match the prediction?
A: Additional genes (like white spotting, silver, or point coloration) can modify the basic colors.

Q2: What's the difference between chocolate and cinnamon?
A: Chocolate (b) produces a rich brown, while cinnamon (bl) creates a warmer reddish-brown tone.

Q3: Why does sex affect coat color?
A: The orange gene is on the X chromosome, so females can display both colors (tortoiseshell) while males typically show one.

Q4: Are dilute colors less healthy?
A: No, dilution only affects pigment concentration. However, some color-linked genes may have health implications.

Q5: Can two solid cats produce tabby kittens?
A: Yes, if both carry the recessive agouti (A) gene and pass it to offspring.