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What’s Behind the Orange Cat Coat Color? A Genetic Mutation

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Published:  June 3rd, 2025

Experts have been able to figure out a lot about cat coat colors, but the orange coat, in particular, had left them with questions. That is, until recently. Researchers discovered the genetic mutation that is responsible for the orange/ginger color, and we’ve summarized the findings for you below.

Khorzhevska/Shutterstock

Researchers Find the Genetic Mutation That Causes Orange Cats


Researchers knew that a mutation in the X chromosome was associated with orange fur in cats, but they didn’t know the specific gene that caused this coat color. Well, two groups of researchers at Kyushu University, located in Japan, and Stanford Medicine, located in the United States, have published new information that sheds light on how these beautiful kitties come about.


These two groups of researchers worked independently but came to the same conclusion, and they were able to figure out the “ remarkably unique genetic pathway” that hasn’t been seen in other cats or other mammals.


So, what’s the genetic cause of the orange coat color in cats? A deletion in the X chromosome (most orange cats are male), which increases activity of Arhgap36, a gene that causes pigment cells which produce melanin to “shift orange.” What’s even more interesting is that this gene wasn’t even considered to be associated with pigmentation in the past.


How Did the Researchers Figure It All Out?


The scientists at Kyushu University sequenced the genomes of kitties who had a variety of coat colors. As they did this, they focused on variations on the X chromosome. Meanwhile, the scientists at Stanford Medicine used the sequenced genomes of various cats, and gathered DNA samples of cats from spay/neuter clinics, to compare kitties with orange coats to those showcasing different colors.


Now experts are wondering if the genes that affect coat color could also have an affect on behavior and personality, especially since Arhgap36 is expressed in hormonal glands and the brain, in addition to pigment cells.


These findings further prove how extraordinary cats are. Unlike other ginger mammals, the orange color in cats is linked to their gender, and the mutation that causes orange cats doesn’t seem to happen in other mammals.


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Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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