Mary Allen
Introduction: The Mystery of Heterochromia in Cats
Heterochromia is a rare genetic trait that causes a cat to have two different colored eyes. The phenomenon has fascinated people for centuries, and it is often considered a unique and beautiful feature in felines. However, many cat owners and enthusiasts are still curious about the causes and implications of heterochromia in cats.
Genetics 101: Understanding Eye Color in Cats
In order to understand heterochromia, it is important to first understand how eye color is determined in cats. Like humans, cats have two sets of genes – one inherited from each parent – that determine their eye color. These genes are responsible for the production and distribution of pigments that give the eyes their color. The two main pigments that determine eye color in cats are melanin and lipochrome. Melanin is responsible for darker colors, such as brown, black, and green, while lipochrome is responsible for lighter colors, such as yellow and orange. The combination and distribution of these pigments determine the final eye color in cats.