Summary
The color of a Persian cat’s coat is primarily determined by two key sets of genes: those controlling the base color and those influencing pattern and dilution. The interaction of these genes, along with the white gene, can result in a wide variety of color divisions recognized in Persian cats, including solid colors, tabby patterns, shaded and smoke colors, bi-color and calico, tipped and ticked patterns, golden and silver, and the Himalayan (colorpoint) pattern.
What are the Primary Genes Determining Persian Cat Color?
The base color in Persian cats is largely determined by the interaction of two types of melanin: eumelanin (black and dark brown) and pheomelanin (red and yellow). The genes responsible for these melanins include the Extension Locus (MC1R Gene) and the Brown Locus (TYRP1 Gene).
The pattern and dilution of the base colors are influenced by the Agouti Gene (ASIP) and the Melanin Inhibitor Gene (I).
How Does the White Gene Interact with Other Color Genes in Persian Cats?
In Persian cats, the white gene can interact with other color genes to produce various white or bi-color patterns. The primary gene involved in white spotting is similar to the KIT gene, which controls white spotting in cats.
The interaction of the white spotting gene with other color genes can result in bi-color or white patterns, such as White Gloving (Wg) and Dominant White (DW).
What are the Seven Color Divisions Recognized in Persian Cats?
Persian cats are categorized into several color divisions based on their coat colors and patterns. These divisions include:
- Solid Colors: Black, Blue, Red, and Cream.
- Tabby Patterns: Classic Tabby and Mackerel Tabby.
- Shaded and Smoke Colors: Shaded and Smoke.
- Bi-Color and Calico: Bi-Color and Calico.
- Tipped and Ticked Patterns: Tipped and Ticked.
- Golden and Silver: Golden and Silver.
- Himalayan (Colorpoint): Himalayan.
