The term “salt licorice cat” refers to a cat with a unique coat pattern and is an interesting subject of recent genetic research. Below is a breakdown of the important information:

Specific Coat:

These cats exhibit a striking gradient coat, usually dark at the roots (often black) and fading to white at the tips.
This pattern has been compared to the shape of “salimikki,” a salty licorice sweet native to Finland.

Genetic Basis:

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified a specific genetic mutation responsible for this coat pattern.
The mutation affects the KIT gene, which plays a role in pigmentation.
This genetic discovery explains the unique distribution of white coats in these cats.

Origin:

The “salt licorice” pattern was first observed in domestic cats in Finland, specifically in the Petajavesi area.

Non-Pure:

It's important to note that "salty licorice" describes a coat pattern, not a distinct breed of cat.

Significance of the Research:

Research on these cats provides valuable insight into the genetics of coat color in felines.
The research, published in the journal Animal Genetics, delves into genetic mutations.

From Salma:

The name comes from the Finnish sweet salmikki, which is a salty licorice.

In short, the "salty licorice cat" is a fascinating example of how genetic mutations can produce beautiful and unique coat patterns in animals.

What is the salt licorice coat pattern?

What does a salt licorice cutie look like? Fluffy resembles a tuxedo cat, except it has white markings on the darker parts of its fur. The dark coat of Salmiyak cats is usually black, although they can also have blue, brown, or tortoiseshell fur in unusual patterns.

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Tipped Tabby Cat coat pattern

The “tipped tabby” pattern is an interesting variation within the broad category of tabby cat coat patterns.

Here's a detailed look:

Understanding Tabby Patterns:

It's very important to understand that “tabby” is not a breed. It's a coat pattern.

All domestic cats have the tabby gene, but other genes can mask it.

There are some recognized tabby patterns: Classic (fuzzy) tabby, mackerel tabby, spotted tabby, speckled tabby. Distinguishing Characteristics of the Tipped Tabby: Agouti Hairs: The ticked tabby is characterized by the fact that each individual hair has bands of light and dark colors, called “agouti hairs.”

This creates a mottled or “ticked” appearance rather than distinctive stripes or spots.

Subtle Patterns:

Unlike other tabby patterns, ticked tabby’s generally do not have prominent stripes or spots on their bodies.
However, they often retain the classic tabby "M" marking on the forehead.
They may also have faint "ghost stripes" on the legs, tail, or face.

Appearance:

The overall effect is subtle, almost "salt and pepper" or "sandy."

Genetic Basis:

The ticked tabby pattern is caused by a specific gene that alters the expression of the tabby pattern.
This gene is dominant, meaning a cat only needs to inherit one copy of the gene to display the tabby pattern.
Breeds Associated with the Ticked Tabby Pattern: Abyssinian: The Abyssinian is perhaps the best-known breed that consistently exhibits the ticked tabby pattern.

Somali:

The Somali is a longhaired version of the Abyssinian and also displays the ticked tabby pattern.

Singapore:

This breed also commonly displays the tabby pattern.
This pattern can also occur in other species.

Key Characteristics:

Uniform, spotted coat appearance.
"M" marking on the forehead.
Possible faint "ghost stripes."
Agouti hair shaft.

The tabby pattern adds a unique and beautiful variation to the diverse world of feline coat colors.

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Seal Point

The seal point color is a distinctive and beautiful coat pattern primarily associated with Siamese cats, but it can also appear in other breeds. Below is a detailed breakdown:

Understanding Seal Point Color:

"Point" refers to the dark color of the cat's head:
- Face (mask)
- Ear
- Claws
- Tail
This pigmentation is the result of a temperature-sensitive form of partial albinism.
Due to a genetic mutation, the enzyme responsible for pigment production is less effective in warmer areas of the body.

Therefore, darker coloration appears in cooler areas ("points").

Seal Point Characteristics:

Color:
- "Seal" refers to a very dark brown, almost black color.
- Seal point cats have a light-colored body (cream, ivory, or light fawn) with these dark brown points.
Temperature Effect:
- A seal point cat's coat may darken with age, especially in cold climates.
- Warmer temperatures may make the body coat appear lighter.
Eyes:
- Seal point cats typically have blue eyes.

Breeds That Can Have the Seal Point Color:

Siamese:
- This is the most popular breed associated with cell point coloration.
Himalayan:
- A Persian variety with pointed coloration.
Ragdoll:
- This breed may also display a cell point pattern.
Burmese:
- Cell point coloring is also possible.
And others.

Key Genetic Information:

The "pointed" pattern is due to the Himalayan gene, which is a recessive gene. This is very important to understand for anyone who wants to breed point cats.

in short:

Seal point cats are recognized by their light-coloured bodies and very dark brown coats, a unique trait resulting from a temperature-sensitive genetic mutation.

The Siamese breed is most famous for this color pattern.

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