A buff colored cat refers to a cat that has a light tan or fawn coat. The buff coat coloration is often seen in certain pedigree cat breeds, such as the Somali, Abyssinian, and Oriental Shorthair. However, buff colored domestic shorthair cats can also occur due to their genetic makeup. The exact genetics behind the buff coat are complex, but it essentially arises from a form of partial albinoism. Let’s take a closer look at what defines a buff colored cat, what breeds exhibit this coloration, the genetics involved, and how to care for these beautiful cats.
Defining the Buff Coat
The buff cat coat is pale tan or fawn in color. It is lighter than a normal tan or fawn coat, but not as pale as cream. There is a warm, golden tone to the buff color. The coat may range from a pale golden tan to a warmer brownish tan. But in all cases, it is distinctly lighter than a regular brown tabby or tan coat.
Here are some defining characteristics of the buff colored cat coat:
– Pale, warm tan ranging from golden to brownish tan
– Lighter than a normal tan/fawn coat
– Warmer and more golden than cream
– Distinctive from brown tabby coat pattern
– Free of pattern such as tabby stripes
– Even coloring across the body, though may be darker on legs, tail, face and ears
The buff coat appears as a solid, even color across the body. Unlike tabby cats, it lacks striping or mackerel patterns. However, many buff cats will show some darker coloring on the legs, tail, face, and ears. This is known as “ticking”. But the overall impression is a uniform pale tan coloration lacking strong markings.
Breeds that Exhibit the Buff Coat
While domestic cats may show buff coats, this pale tan coloring is most associated with particular pedigreed breeds. Breeds that are known for having buff coat varieties include:
| Breed | Notes on Buff Coat |
|---|---|
| Somali | One of the signature coat colors, ranging from warm beige to cooler tan |
| Abyssinian | Common coat color referred to as “usual” or “tawny” |
| Oriental Shorthair | CFA refers to buff coats in this breed as “fawn” |
| Cornish Rex | Buff coats are more rare but do occur as a dilute of red |
| Devon Rex | Dilute buff gene causes a warm tan coat |
| Egyptian Mau | Naturally spotted breed with buff as a background color |
| Savannah | Serval hybrid can display a buff coat |
| Bengal | Some buff colored Bengals have golden-tan coats with tabby markings |
| LaPerm | Curly-coated breed with rare buff coat color |
As seen, the buff gene most commonly occurs in Oriental and Abyssinian type breeds. But it can also rarely turn up in certain Rex breeds and wild hybrids. Savannah cats, for instance, may show buff coats when they inherit the dilute gene from domestic outcrosses.
Genetics Behind the Buff Coat
The pale buff coat arises from a genetic quirk that causes a form of partial albinoism. Specifically, it relates to an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is essential for melanin pigment production in cats. The buff coat occurs because tyrosinase activity is reduced, but not completely eliminated as in a true albino.
The biochemical explanation involves two genes:
– **TYR** – Encodes the tyrosinase enzyme needed to produce melanin pigment
– **C** – Causes a mutation in the TYR gene, resulting in low tyrosinase activity
A cat needs two copies of mutant tyrosinase gene (C/C genotype) to show the buff coat phenotype. With one copy, they may still produce enough melanin for a normal tan coat. It takes two copies to sufficiently inhibit tyrosinase and dilute color to buff.
The C gene mutation arose in cats brought from the Near East or Egypt to Europe. It became fixed in breeds like the Abyssinian and Somali. Most buff coated purebreds have a recessive c/c genotype inherited from their foundation stock. However, some Rex breeds likely developed the mutation spontaneously later on.
In mixed breed cats, variants of the C gene can interact with other dilute genes and modifiers to produce random buff coats. The genetics behind buff coloring in moggies is complex. But at its root, it stems from inheritance of mutant alleles that inhibit melanin production.
Care and Health of Buff Cats
When it comes to care, buff colored cats have the same basic needs as any feline. Here are some key points for keeping your buff kitty healthy and happy:
Grooming
– Brush weekly to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils
– Trim nails every 2-3 weeks
– Check ears and wipe gently with cloth to prevent waxy buildup
– Use stainless steel bowls to prevent chin acne
Health
– Schedule annual vet exams to catch problems early
– Keep vaccines up to date; Rabies, FVRCP, FeLV recommended
– Use monthly flea and tick prevention medication
– Have litterbox checked for parasites yearly
– Feed a balanced diet and avoid obesity
Enrichment
– Provide appropriate scratching posts and cat trees
– Use interactive toys like wands and treat puzzles
– Play with kitty daily to satisfy hunting instinct
– Consider getting a companion cat if left alone often
– Give access to perches with view of outdoors
With their unique coats, buff cats do need a little extra care when it comes to sun exposure. Their pale tan fur provides less protection against UV radiation. Limit time in direct sun, provide shaded areas outdoors, and use pet-safe sunscreen on ears and noses if needed. With proper care, your buff colored kitty will stay healthy and enthralled with their golden glow.
Conclusion
The buff coat is a distinctive pale tan seen in certain pedigreed cats and some mixed breeds. Arising from reduced tyrosinase enzyme activity, the warm golden color occurs when two copies of a mutant gene are inherited. Breeds like the Abyssinian and Somali showcase buff coats as part of their pedigree standards. But other breeds, along with the occasional domestic shorthair, may also bear this beautiful dilute color. With attention to their grooming, health, and enrichment needs, your buff colored cat can live a long and happy life. Their golden sheen will brighten up your home for years to come.