Cat Coat Genetics Calculator
Curious about what colors your cat’s kittens might have? Use our Cat Coat Genetics Calculator to explore possible coat color outcomes based on the genetics of the parent cats.
Understanding Cat Coat Color Genetics
Feline coat color genetics is a fascinating and complex topic! A cat’s coat color is determined by multiple genes that interact to create the wide variety of patterns and colors we see. Understanding how these genes work can help predict possible outcomes in kittens based on the genetics of their parents.
Basic Coat Color Genes
Here are some of the major genes that influence cat coat color:
- O gene (Orange gene): Controls whether the cat will express orange pigment (pheomelanin). Located on the X chromosome. Males (XY) can be orange or not; females (XX) can be orange, non-orange, or tortoiseshell if heterozygous.
- B gene (Black/brown gene): Determines black-based colors (black, chocolate, cinnamon). Modifications of this gene affect color shades.
- D gene (Dilution gene): Controls whether colors appear diluted. Black → blue, red → cream, etc.
- W gene (White gene): Masks all other colors when present.
- Tabby gene (Agouti gene): Controls whether a cat shows a tabby pattern or a solid color.
How Inheritance Works
Each parent passes one copy of each gene to their offspring. For sex-linked genes like the Orange gene (O), inheritance depends on whether the kitten is male or female.
Example: If a red male mates with a black female, all female kittens will be tortoiseshell (carrying both orange and black) while all male kittens will be either red or black depending on the mother’s contribution.
Common Color Outcomes
| Parent Combination | Possible Kitten Colors |
|---|---|
| Red Male + Black Female | Red or Black Males, Tortoiseshell or Calico Females |
| Black Male + Tortoiseshell Female | Black, Red, Tortoiseshell, Calico |
| Blue Male + Cream Female | Blue, Cream, Blue-Cream, Tortoiseshell |
| White Parent + Any Color | White or other parent colors, depending on whether white masking gene is dominant |
Limitations of Prediction
- Not all genetic combinations are visible in coat color alone.
- Polygenes (many genes) influence shade, pattern intensity, and modifiers.
- White masking gene (W) can override other color expression.
- Sex-linked inheritance influences orange expression.
Why It’s Fun to Predict Coat Colors
- Provides insight into feline genetics.
- Helps breeders plan litters with desired traits.
- Educates cat owners on the genetics behind their cat’s appearance.
- Fun family activity when expecting kittens!
FAQs About Cat Coat Genetics
Can you guarantee kitten colors?
No. While predictions can estimate probabilities, genetic variation and masking genes can produce surprises.
Why can only female cats be tortoiseshell?
Because the Orange gene is on the X chromosome, females with two X chromosomes can inherit both orange and non-orange alleles, producing a mix (tortoiseshell or calico). Males (with one X) can only be one or the other unless genetically abnormal (XXY).
Can white cats carry color genes?
Yes. White cats may carry color genes that are masked by the dominant W gene. Their kittens can display these colors if W is not inherited.
Why do some kittens change color as they grow?
Temperature-sensitive genes (as in Siamese cats), hormonal changes, or slow pigment development can affect coat color in young kittens.
Can two black cats produce a red kitten?
Only if the black female carries the Orange gene and the male passes the appropriate gene combination. For a red male kitten, the mother must carry orange.
Using This Calculator
- Select the coat colors of the mother and father cats.
- Click "Predict Kitten Colors."
- View a list of likely coat color outcomes for the litter.
- Remember that genetics is complex — results are estimates!