Scientists Uncover Genetic Mutation Behind Unique Cat Coat Pattern In Finland

In a remarkable discovery, scientists have identified a genetic mutation responsible for a distinctive coat pattern in cats found in Finland. This mutation, observed in feral cats since 2007, has captivated both researchers and pet lovers alike. The striking appearance of these cats, characterized by a coat that starts black and transitions to white at the tips, has led to increased adoptions, turning many of these feral cats into beloved household pets.

Dubbed the "salmiak" pattern, named after a type of salty licorice popular in Finland, this unique fur coloration is most noticeable in solid black cats but can also appear in various other colors, including brown tabby, tortoiseshell, and blue. The presence of this coat pattern not only enhances the visual appeal of these animals but also raises intriguing questions about feline genetics and evolutionary adaptations.

As researchers delve deeper into the genetics of these salmiak-colored cats, their findings promise to shed light on this unusual phenomenon. With continued interest and study, we may uncover more about the specific genetic mechanisms that drive this captivating coat color, further enriching our understanding of feline genetics and the natural world.

Researchers initiated DNA tests to understand more about the genetics of these salmiak-colored cats. Their findings are published in the journal Animal Genetics.

Firstly, they collected blood samples from five such cats with permission from owners, through a biobank at Helsinki University. They tested four of the cats for known genes affecting fur color. The tests showed that these cats had typical genes for full color and no genes for white fur. Their black or blue fur was due to specific genetic traits.

The researchers sequenced the entire genome of two of the cats. This means they looked at all their DNA to find any unique changes. They found a specific deletion, or missing piece of DNA, near a gene called KIT, which could be responsible for the unique salmiak fur color.

Next, the scientists studied the genetics of 180 Finnish cats, some with salmiak-colored fur and some without. They used specific tools to check if the cats had a particular genetic variant they discovered, named "wsal," linked to the salmiak fur color. They discovered that this variant matched perfectly with the salmiak fur pattern.

Three additional salmiak cats, who hadn't had their whole genome sequenced, also had this variant, the study reported. In cats without salmiak fur, three carried one copy of the variant without showing the salmiak pattern, while the rest had no copies of the variant. This indicates that two copies of the wsal variant are needed in order for the salmiak fur to manifest.

Scientists found that this variant was not present in other unusual fur patterns from cats in Romania and the U.K. The researchers conclude that they have found the reason for this distinctive coat pattern.

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