Is Your Black Cat Really Black? The Truth About Black Coats

Black cats often face unfair misunderstandings, even today, with many finding it harder to be rehomed or adopted. Yet, black cats are often some of the friendliest and most affectionate felines you’ll meet. Their stunning black coats are a defining feature, but did you know that not all black cats are the same when it comes to their coat colour? Domestic shorthair kittens for example, can show surprising black coat variations due to genetics.

In this article, we'll explore the fascinating science behind black cat coats, from genetics to how coat colour can change, helping you understand the truth behind your pet’s striking appearance.

The Genetics of Black Cat Coats

The colour of a cat's coat is determined by genetics, particularly by specific genes called alleles. The key gene responsible for a true black coat is the dominant "B" allele, which produces the black pigment eumelanin. Variants of this gene, the recessive "b" alleles, result in related colours such as chocolate or cinnamon but still fall within the black pigment family.

However, the black colour gene dominance applies mainly over other alleles that produce darker colours, but not over all genes. The agouti gene, which controls patterns like tabby stripes, is the most dominant coat colour gene overall. If a cat inherits an active agouti gene, it will show tabby patterns, even if it has the black "B" gene, explaining why many cats have subtle patterns beneath what looks like a black coat.

This means that for your cat to be truly black without any tabby markings, it must inherit two recessive or inactive agouti genes alongside the dominant black gene. Otherwise, you might notice faint tabby stripes particularly in kittens or when black fur fades in sunlight.

When Is a Black Cat Not Really Black?

It may surprise you that a black cat isn't always purely black. When a cat carries the dominant black gene but doesn’t fully suppress the agouti or tabby gene, subtle patterns can show through the dark fur. For example, young black kittens sometimes reveal faint tabby markings that become less visible as they grow, or older cats may reveal these markings when their fur lightens in sunlight.

Sunlight exposure, especially in warmer months, causes black fur to sometimes fade visibly, revealing a rusty or reddish-brown tint on the tips of the fur. This phenomenon, known as "rusting," is caused by UV light breaking down the eumelanin pigment, similar to how human hair can become sun-bleached.

How Black Fur Can Change Over Time

Aside from sun exposure, black cats' fur can change as they age. Many develop a few grey or white hairs over time, especially around the face, neck, or chest, giving a distinguished salt-and-pepper look. This is a natural part of ageing and doesn’t affect their overall health.

Additionally, some black cats may have an enzyme deficiency related to tyrosinase, which plays a crucial role in pigment production. A lack of sufficient tyrosinase can cause black fur to appear faded or take on a rusty or chocolate brown hue persistently, not just from sun exposure.

If you notice your black cat’s coat stays rusty or chocolate brown through the winter or doesn’t revert after sun exposure fades, it's a good idea to consult your vet. Such enzymatic imbalances can sometimes be managed with supplements or dietary adjustments and might signal other health issues if left unaddressed.

Understanding Black Cat Coat Care

Knowing your black cat’s coat genetics helps in understanding its care needs. Fading from sun exposure can be minimised by providing shaded areas for outdoor cats in summer, and regular grooming helps keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Always approach cat rehoming and breeding responsibly; avoid perpetuating myths about black cats and focus on providing loving homes for all cats regardless of coat colour.

For those interested in finding a black cat or adopting, reputable breeders and animal shelters are great places to start. Remember, true black or not, every cat deserves a caring home and a happy life.