The village of Petäjävesi in central Finland has become home to a group of remarkably eye-catching cats. These felines possess a distinctive fur pattern with ombré strands that start dark at the root and gradually fade to white, similar to tuxedo cats. Geneticists from the University of Helsinki, led by Hannes Lohi, were intrigued by this peculiar trait and conducted a study to unravel the genetic basis of these striking feline features.

Published in the journal Animal Genetics on May 9, the study delves into the DNA analysis of these unique cats. The research was a collaborative effort between the University of Helsinki, a pet care company specializing in genetic tests, and cat owners and breeders who offered their furry companions' DNA for analysis.

Dubbed "salmiak," in reference to a popular Finnish treat known as "salty licorice," the exceptional fur pattern was found to be the result of a novel gene mutation. The researchers sequenced the entire genome of two of these cats, discovering a previously unknown mutation that affects a specific gene called KIT. This variant, known as w-sal, causes the distinctive ombré effect. Testing 178 samples from the biobank, including the salty colored cats and normal-colored samples, the researchers found that the salmiak cats carried two copies of the recessive gene, while others had one or none.

The study's findings not only shed light on the origin of these unique fur patterns but also have broader implications beyond feline genetics. The KIT gene, responsible for hair color, also plays a crucial role in red blood cells and the development of reproductive cells. However, unlike other gene variants that result in white fur and can cause deafness, the w-sal mutation does not appear to have any adverse health effects.

"While fascinating, this study also reveals the complex regulation of the KIT gene, a vital component in multiple biological processes," remarked Greg Barsh, a professor of genetics at Stanford University, who was not involved in the research.

The overarching aim of this biobank research, according to Lohi, is to comprehend the genetic and environmental factors behind feline disorders. The University of Helsinki has ongoing projects with Wisdom Panel, which specializes in pet DNA tests, to explore various genetic diseases. The knowledge gained from these studies could potentially benefit not only cats but also humans with similar medical conditions.

With the emergence of salmiak cats as a distinct phenomenon, the question arises as to whether they may become the next sought-after designer breed. Lohi suggests that breeders may choose to develop a population of salty licorice cats, but emphasizes the importance of monitoring their health to ensure the absence of any color-related issues. Tailored genetic testing can assist in breeding these cats without passing on potentially harmful genes.

"It is possible that if people find these unique cats rare and cute, they may become very popular," said Barsh, underscoring the human-animal bond's influence on pet preferences.

The investigation into the genes behind the enchanting fur patterns of these Finnish cats not only provides a glimpse into the intricacies of feline genetics but also presents an opportunity to further understand the nature of genetic disorders in both cats and humans.