It has long been believed that cats with different eyes bring good luck to their owners. Scientists have argued for many years over what this unique, and sometimes frankly frightening sight is connected with. Some claimed that this was a genetic mutation, others were sure that it was some kind of disease. Today we will try to understand the causes of this phenomenon and find out what breeds of cats it is inherent in.
What is the reason for this anomaly?
We must say right away that this unique phenomenon is found not only in cats, but also in other animals, and even in humans. It has a scientific basis and is known as heterochromia. The cause of differences in the color of the iris is considered to be a deficiency of melanin or its presence in the body in an abnormally large amount. The color in which the irises will be painted depends on the concentration of this substance and on the characteristics of its distribution. In other words, the eye affected by heterochromia underwent hyper- or hypopigmentation.
Most often, cats with different eyes are found in nature; the breed of an animal does not play a special role in this matter. Heterochromia is complete or partial. In the first case, one eye of the animal is blue, and the other is golden, green, yellow or orange.
Is heterochromia a disease?
Immediately make a reservation that cats with different eyes are not considered sick, since this phenomenon does not affect the eyesight of animals. This anomaly is often found in white and tricolor individuals, as well as in those who once suffered a serious illness.
Specialists distinguish acquired and congenital heterochromia. The first occurs due to prolonged use of certain medications. The second is due solely to hereditary factors.
White cat with different eyes
The breed of animals does not affect the appearance of heterochromia. In the case of white individuals, this anomaly is due to the presence of a very dangerous dominant White gene. In a homozygous form, it often causes the death of unborn babies.
Another feature associated with white coat color is that, under its influence, significant changes in the organs of vision and hearing can occur. In addition, it has a strong effect on the formation of the beginnings of the cat's nervous system.
Van cats with different eyes
The breed was bred by accident. These semi-long-haired animals have a strong elongated body with an excellently developed chest and a rectangular, slightly tapering back to the tail. Strong limbs are considered a characteristic feature of adults. Moreover, the rear is a little shorter than the front.
These beautiful graceful cats weigh with different eyes from four and a half to nine kilograms. Males are distinguished by a more powerful skeleton and large size. Individuals considered to have reached the age of three are considered sexually mature. Representatives of this breed are very sociable. They are able to express their own emotions and needs. Despite the fact that these animals are attached to all members of the family, they single out one owner for themselves.
Turkish Angora
These small animals, characterized by a small skeleton, have an elegant elongated body with rounded ribs. The average weight of an adult is about five kilograms.
Among the representatives of this breed, cats with different eyes are also found. The sphenoid head of the animal is decorated with large erect ears covered with soft nap. The body of the Turkish Angora is covered with silky hair of white, cream, black, blue or red. Individuals of Himalayan, lilac and chocolate color are not allowed for breeding.
Especially popular are white Angora cats with different eye colors. They are usually sold at a higher price. Individuals purchased in a professional nursery do not have hereditary diseases and can survive at least eighteen years.
The basis of the diet of Turkish Angora should be special feed of a super-premium class. Hair care is reduced to regular combing with a brush. It is enough to repeat this procedure once a week. Representatives of this breed also need regular cleaning of the auricles, cutting their nails and rubbing their eyes.
These rather playful cats are characterized by an active temperament. They love physical activity and love to be in the spotlight. So that the pet does not get bored during your long absence, it is advisable to purchase a clawcloth, special simulators, interactive toys and other accessories that allow the animal to pour out the accumulated energy. In addition, Turkish Angora is well trained. She's so smart that she’s quite capable of mastering a few not-so-complicated tricks.