The Wonderful White Cat
September 5th is White Cat Day. A white cat is not a specific breed. Like ginger cats and black cats, they are being celebrated for their unique color. A pure white cat is rarest coat color in cats. But many breeds have a standard that include a solid white coat as an option, including Persians, Maine Coons, Khao Manee, Turkish Angoras and more.
White cats are not just a pretty face. They also have some interesting genetic traits that make them stand out from other cats.
One of the most notable characteristics of white cats is their tendency to be deaf. Studies have shown that up to 85% of white cats with blue eyes are born deaf in one or both ears. 40% of odd-eyed white cats with one blue eye are deaf, and 17% of white cats without blue eyes result in deaf kittens.
Related Post: Living with a Deaf Cat
Contents
White Cat: Genetics
White cats are the result of genes that affects the production of pigment in their fur. The amount of white that is laid down as the kittens develop in the womb depends on the interplay between 3 genes: The N or non-white, the W, or dominant white masking gene which is responsible for all-white cats, and the “Ws” gene, which stands for “white spotting factor.” The Ws gene is dominant, meaning that if a cat inherits one copy of the gene from either parent, it will have at least some white fur.
However, not all white cats are the same. There are different variations of the W gene that can affect the amount of white fur on a cat’s body. For example, some cats may have only a small patch of white fur on their chest or belly and white paws, while another may be a high white bi-color. You can not breed for the high white/low white patterns.
Sometimes a white cat will have a shadow “cap” on the top of her head. It’s a clue to what color Kitty would have been had the white masking/spotting gene not covered her coat color. It usually disappears when she grows in her adult coat.
Albino Cats
White cats are different than albino cats. White cats are genetically programmed to have a white coat or a pattern with white spotting. Albino cats have a mutation that produces a cat with no pigment in their fur, skin or eyes. The pink eyes are giveaway for an albino vs. a white cat.
Eye Colors
White cats can have any of the variety of eye colors available in cats, including blue, green, yellow, and even odd-eyed (one blue eye and one green eye). Blue eyes are more common in white cats than in cats of other colors. However, some white cats may have eyes that are not completely blue, but rather have a hint of green or yellow.
Health Issues in White Cats
White cats are adorable and unique, but they can also be prone to certain health issues. Here are some of the most common health issues that white cats may experience.
Deafness
White cats with blue eyes are more likely to be deaf than cats with other eye colors. If you have a white cat with blue eyes, it’s important to have their hearing tested regularly to catch any potential problems early.
Sunburn
White cats are more susceptible to sunburn than cats with darker fur. This is because their skin has less melanin, which provides natural protection from the sun’s harmful rays. If your white cat spends time outdoors or lounging in a sunny window, it’s important to apply a pet-safe sunscreen to their ears, nose, and other exposed areas to prevent sunburn. Ask your vet about an appropriate product.
Skin Cancer
White cats are also more prone to skin cancer than cats with darker fur. This is because their skin has less pigmentation, which provides natural protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. If you notice any unusual lumps or bumps on your white cat’s skin, it’s important to have them checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Grooming a White Cat
White cats are beautiful creatures that require special care to keep their coats looking clean and healthy. This involves brushing their fur daily to remove any loose hair and prevent matting.
It is also important to keep their eyes and ears clean. White coats will stain if Kitty has an eye discharge. Moisture in the eye crevices can lead to infections that damage Kitty’s coat. White cats need a lot more help from us than most cats to keep their coats pristine. They are more likely to need baths, or at least paw soaks and face cleanings.
The white Persian is the quintessential show cat because it is the hardest cat to present properly. It is hard to keep a white cat white and you can’t hide any faults in a white coat.
Related Post: Breed Cats Page
Are White Cats Good Luck?
If people think black cats are bad luck, are white cats then good luck? Actually, yes. Many cultures do, in fact, consider them a good omen. They are associated with the moon, water, and rain.
- The well-known Japanese Beckoning Cat (Maneki Neko) is most often depicted as a white cat.
- A white cat is associated with the Greek goddess of beauty and purity, Astraea.
- In the Mediterranean countries, a white cat who befriends a child is considered a good luck omen, symbolizing a promising future ahead.
- Russians believe white cats are a sign that money is on the way.
- In India, some believe that a picture of a white cat will keep away evil spirits.
- White cats have been a status symbol because only the very wealthy could afford the white pedigreed cats.
https://www.cattipper.com/tips/2022/white-cats-good-luck.html#What_do_white_cats_mean
Love and White Cats
Do white cats attract men? According to this theory, if you are looking for a future spouse, you should get a picture of a white cat and display it in your home.
White cats are said to be good luck for people about to marry. If a man sees a white cat on his wedding day, it is an omen that the man will be fortunate in love as long as he keeps the cat. Other cultures predict favor and love for the bride if she sees a white cat on her special day.
Spirituality and White Cats
Like black cats are considered by some to be witch familiars and associated with dark forces, white cats are associated with white magic.
- They symbolize light, the moon, and stars, water, purity, and rebirth. They are also symbols of healing, purification, and peace.
- White cats are associated with Lady Luck. White witches believe that these cats bring good fortune, good luck, and success in business.
- A white cat represents peace and objectivity. You are supposed to do well in debates and argument if you associate with a white cat.
- White cats represent the household Goddess, who leads people and animals in worship. They are also a symbol for those who have passed away.
- Some cultures believe that a white cat crossing your path may be the ghost of a dead person who does not want you to know they are in the area.
https://www.cattipper.com/tips/2022/white-cats-good-luck.html#What_do_white_cats_mean
Conclusion
White cats are special cats that have captured the hearts of many cat lovers. While they may be prone to certain health issues and require special care, their striking appearance and affectionate personalities make them a popular choice for many households.
