University of Sydney Identifies Gene for Ginger Cat Color in 188 Felines After 60 Years of Research at Stanford

Dec 5, 2024, 04:06 PM

Researchers from the University of Sydney have identified the gene responsible for the distinctive ginger color in cats, linking it to their gender. This discovery, which has been validated through various studies involving genetic samples from over 188 felines worldwide, sheds light on a genetic puzzle that has perplexed scientists for six decades. The findings were influenced by contributions from experts at Stanford University, including Greg Marsh, who have been exploring the genetic challenges associated with orange cats. While the reasons behind the quirky behavior of ginger cats remain unclear, the genetic basis for their coat color has now been established.