Have you ever noticed a cat with one eye blue and the other green? This phenomenon, known as heterochromia, is fascinating and also full of mysteries. Is it normal? Does it affect the cat’s health? And why do some cats have such different eye colours? Let’s dive into the world of feline heterochromia and dispel all doubts.
What is heterochromia and how does it manifest itself in cats?
Heterochromia literally means ‘different colour’ and refers to a difference in the colour of the eyes, skin or hair. In the context of our feline friends, we refer to it when one colour of a cat’s eyes differs from the other. It could be one eye blue and the other green, but different combinations are possible.
Eye colour change in a cat, especially in young kittens, is often a normal developmental process. Many kittens are born with blue eyes, which can change colour as they mature. Consequently, the question “when does eye colour change in a cat?” often arises. Eye colour change in a cat usually starts around 6-8 weeks of age and is usually complete by 3-4 months of age.
Heterochromia of the irises of the eyes – causes of occurrence
Heterochromia in the cat is usually the result of a hereditary anomaly that does not adversely affect the cat’s health. It is linked to the gene responsible for the development of eye colour, which varies depending on the breed of cat.
It is equally important to understand that heterochromia is not a disease. In fact, many people ask – is heterochromia a disease? – The answer is no. It is simply a difference in the cat’s genes that does not affect the cat’s health.
Types of heterochromia
Heterochromia in cats varies and can take different forms. Three types of heterochromia are most common:
Complete heterochromia – the most recognisable form, where one eye is a different colour to the other. For example, one eye may be blue and the other green.
Sectoral heterochromia – occurs when one part of the iris is a different colour to the rest. For example, part of the iris may be green and the rest blue.
Central heterochromia – this form of heterochromia occurs when the centre of the iris, the area around the pupil, is a different colour to the outer part of the iris. For example, the centre may be gold and the outer ring blue.
All these types of heterochromia are natural and do not affect the cat’s health or quality of life.
Heterochromia versus deafness and white coat in cats
Have you ever noticed that heterochromia is more common in white-coated or white-dominant cats? This is definitely not a coincidence. The gene responsible for the white coat often blocks the distribution of melanin to the eyes, leading to different coloured irises.
This gene, called the protein gene, is dominant, meaning that even if only one of the cat’s parents is white, there is a chance that the kittens will also have a white coat. Not all white cats have heterochromia. This gene has different ‘levels of distinctiveness’, meaning that it can affect different cats differently. Some white cats may have normal eye colour, while others may exhibit heterochromia.
In addition, it is worth noting that one in three cats with different coloured irises is deaf or partially deaf to the side with blue eyes. This trait is also linked to the protein gene, which not only affects the colour of the coat and eyes, but also the internal structures of the cat’s ears.
Despite these specific traits, white cats with heterochromia lead normal, healthy lives. Key to their health is a proper diet, such as good cat food, regular visits to the vet and attentive owner care.
Is heterochromia dangerous?
Is heterochromia dangerous? Definitely no. Most cats with heterochromia lead normal, healthy lives. However, owners of cats with heterochromia should remember to use regular cat eye care products and monitor their cat’s appearance. Some cats may require cat supplements to help maintain eye health.
In conclusion, heterochromia in the cat is a fascinating phenomenon that adds beauty and uniqueness to our feline friends. The right diet, such as good cat food, and regular checkups with the vet will help ensure that our feline friend enjoys good health.
