A cute cat with a rare genetic mutation has had some kittens… and their colours are rather interesting.
The father cat, as you can see in the picture, has a two tone face, black and grey. This is believed to be due to a genetic mutation in the mother’s womb, and something to do with the x chromosome.
Narnia is a special cat.
The mutation, called chimerism, where there is an issue with an extra X chromosome as explained above, is the most common explanation for feline mutations like the one pictured above. However, Narnias owner insists that isn’t the case for him. In fact he’s been tested for this mutation and there is no evidence of it, which is ever stranger.
And it seems these wacky genes have been passed down to Phoenix (his grey kitten) and Prada (the black kitten), as the two different halves of his face have seemingly manifested in two separate kittens!
Phoenix and Prada.
Stephanie Jiminez, who is a professional cat breeder and owner of these cats, explained: “A geneticist performed tests and Narnia has only one DNA… there remains a mystery for science.
“He also has beautiful blue eyes, which is very rare in a cat that is all black. Normally blue eyes are often found in white cats.”
She continued: “When Narnia was born I was extremely surprised. I knew immediately that he was exceptional.
“Narnia was born with a double black and grey face, which is very rare – normally a cat cannot be black and grey.”
Narnia is set to stay with Stephanie, whilst Phoenix has already been adopted and Prada is getting ready to go to a new home soon.
