The Mystery Of Orange Tabbies' Green Eyes

The eye color of cats can vary for a number of reasons, including genetics, age, and even health. In the case of an orange tabby cat, it is not uncommon for their eyes to change color multiple times, shifting from shades of amber orange to green, blue, and even steel gray. While this may be attributed to genetic factors or the age of the cat, it is always a good idea to monitor any changes and consult a veterinarian if concerns arise, especially if the cat starts to show signs of blindness or other eye-related issues.

Eye colour changes in kittens

Most kittens are born with blue eyes due to a lack of pigment combined with light refraction. As their sight develops, their eyes will begin to change colour, taking on a range of shades from browns and yellows to greens, oranges and ambers. This change will likely begin when a kitten is between three to eight weeks old and will be complete by the time the kitten is three months old. The colour change occurs as the kitten's eyes mature and the melanocytes of the eye produce melanin, the pigment that determines eye colour. The amount of melanin will determine the final colour, intensity and depth of the cat's eyes. For example, light green eyes indicate small amounts of melanin, while brown eyes have the most melanin.

While some breeds, like Siamese cats, retain blue eyes throughout their lives, the eyes of most kittens will change colour over time. Once a kitten reaches seven weeks of age and has assumed its adult eye colour, its eyes will not change colour again. However, a cat suffering from certain eye conditions might appear to have shifting eye colours, which could indicate a serious health problem. For example, an older cat whose eyes return to their original blue colour may have experienced eye damage or be going blind. Additionally, changing eye colour is commonly an indicator of an eye infection and could be a sign of a more serious condition such as uveitis, an eyeball inflammation that can cause permanent damage if untreated. Other common eye problems include blepharitis, conjunctivitis, glaucoma and cataracts. Therefore, it is important to be wary of eye colour changes in adult cats and to consult a veterinarian if any abnormal changes are noticed.

Genetic anomalies in cats

Cats are known for their captivating eyes, which can come in a variety of colours, including brilliant blues, radiant greens, mysterious yellows, and deep browns. The colour of a cat's eyes is determined by a combination of genetics, pigmentation, and, occasionally, health conditions. While genetics play a significant role, the presence of pigments and their interaction with light can lead to variations in eye colour, even within the same breed or lineage.

Polydactyly

Polydactyl cats, also known as "Hemingway cats," have extra toes, ranging from a few extra digits to as many as 10 additional toes. This genetic anomaly is more common in certain breeds and geographical areas, such as the Hemingway cats of Key West, Florida, and the Maine Coons of New England. It is believed that early sailors and settlers brought polydactyl cats on their ships for mouse control, and these cats later bred with local felines. While polydactyly is generally harmless, it does result in more nails for their owners to trim.

Four Ears

Since at least 1946, cats with four ears have been documented. This recessive genetic mutation, which requires both parents to carry the gene for it to manifest, does not typically cause health issues beyond potential hearing impairment.

Vitiligo, Albinism, and Lentigo

These three conditions are related to pigmentation in cats. Vitiligo results in white or pinkish patches on the skin, fur, and sometimes claws due to a lack of pigment in certain areas. Albinism is a genetic mutation that causes a complete lack of pigment, leading to pinkish skin, white fur, and pale blue or pinkish eyes. Lentigo, on the other hand, is characterised by dark spots, similar to human freckles, and is most common in orange cats, affecting their noses, lips, and eyelids.

Taillessness

A random genetic mutation can cause a malformation in the spinal cord and its nerves, resulting in a cat being born without a tail or with a shortened tail. The Manx cat breed, deliberately bred for this trait, may suffer from significant neurological and musculoskeletal problems, collectively known as Manx syndrome.

Folded Ears

Scottish Fold cats have folded ears due to a spontaneous genetic mutation affecting the cartilage in their bodies. While the folded ears give them a unique appearance, this mutation can also cause malformations in other bony structures, leading to pain, early-onset arthritis, and behavioural changes.

Dwarfism

Munchkin cats exhibit dwarfism, a naturally occurring genetic mutation that results in short legs. While they have a distinct and appealing appearance, organisations like the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) do not recognise this breed due to concerns about potential health problems, including a predisposition to osteoarthritis and mobility issues.

Male Tortoiseshell and Calico Cats

Tortoiseshell and calico cats typically have a mix of orange and black fur, and they are almost always female. In rare cases, male cats can be born with an extra X chromosome (XXY), resulting in the mosaic coat pattern of tortoiseshell and calico cats. However, these males often have shorter lifespans and are usually sterile.

Congenital Deafness

Some white cats experience congenital deafness due to the mutated gene responsible for white fur (W). This gene can cause the degeneration of inner ear structures necessary for hearing. White cats with blue eyes are more likely to be deaf than those with gold or green eyes.

When to consult a vet

While it's always tempting to turn to Google for advice, it's important to remember that your furry friend might need veterinary care. Here are some signs that your orange tabby cat with green eyes, or any cat for that matter, needs to be seen by a vet:

Changes in Eating Habits

Monitor your cat's eating habits. If you notice a sudden lack of appetite or a decrease in food consumption, it could be a cause for concern, especially if coupled with other symptoms. On the other hand, overeating or a sudden increase in appetite could also indicate an issue. Any significant change in eating habits warrants monitoring and, if persistent, a visit to the vet.

Elimination Habits

Get to know your cat's elimination habits, including the size, colour, consistency, and odour of their faeces. Take note of their normal urine output, colour, and frequency. Any deviations, such as diarrhoea, constipation, or straining to urinate, could indicate a problem that requires veterinary attention.

Gait and Activity Level

Cats typically walk with a purposeful stride. Changes in their walking style, such as limping or favouring one side, could indicate an injury or arthritis, and a vet should assess them. Additionally, sudden changes in activity levels, such as decreased playfulness or a preference for walking instead of running, could signal injury, lethargy, or depression, all of which are reasons to consult a vet.

Grooming Habits

Cats are usually meticulous groomers, spending a significant amount of their waking hours grooming themselves. If your cat suddenly stops grooming, resulting in a greasy, matted coat, it could be a sign of arthritis or depression, among other issues. Conversely, if they start grooming one particular area excessively, it could indicate skin irritation caused by fleas or allergies, warranting a visit to the vet.

Sociability and Behaviour

Even though cats are known for their independence, they are often social with their human companions and other pets in the household. A usually social cat that suddenly becomes reclusive and hides in corners likely has physical or emotional problems that need professional attention. Additionally, behavioural changes, such as urinating outside the litter box (assuming it's clean and there are no recent environmental changes), could indicate a lower urinary tract blockage or infection, both serious conditions requiring immediate veterinary attention.

Other Signs

• Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
• Excessive Drinking and/or Urination: This could indicate a problem with the kidneys or diabetes.
• Skin Irritation or Swelling: Any irritation or swelling on the skin could be a sign of an allergy, infection, or other skin condition.
• Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath might indicate dental issues or other internal problems.
• Ear Odour, Scratching, or Head Shaking: These could be signs of ear mites or an ear infection.
• Trouble Getting Around: If your cat is having difficulty moving or navigating their surroundings, it could indicate joint pain or other mobility issues.

Eye colour changes in older cats

Cats' eyes are known for their stunning appearance, and their ability to change colour is one of their most distinctive traits. A cat's eye colour can change due to various factors, including age, health, genetics, and lighting conditions.

The Anatomy of a Cat's Eye

A cat's eye is made up of three layers. The outermost layer, the cornea, is a clear protective layer covering the eye's surface. The middle layer, the iris, is the coloured part of the eye and contains muscles that contract or expand to adjust the size of the pupil. The pupil, the black centre of the eye, regulates the amount of light entering the eye. The innermost layer, the retina, contains cells that respond to light and send signals to the brain, enabling the cat to see.

The colour of a cat's eye is determined by the amount and distribution of pigments in the iris. Melanin is the pigment that gives colour to the skin, hair, and eyes. The more melanin in the iris, the darker the eye colour. A lack of melanin results in lighter eye colours, such as blue, green, and yellow.

As cats age, their eyes may change colour due to the lens of the eye becoming less flexible over time, causing the eye to appear more yellow or cloudy. In older cats, eye colour changes can be a sign of health issues such as cataracts, glaucoma, or uveitis.

Potential Health Complications

It is important to distinguish between normal eye colour changes and those indicating underlying health problems. While eye colour changes in older cats can occur naturally, sudden changes over a short period of time could signal a more serious issue.

One common eye condition in cats is uveitis, an inflammation of the uveal tract of the eye, which can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Symptoms of uveitis include red, cloudy eyes, an abnormally shaped pupil, light sensitivity, and a protrusion of the third eyelid.

Another potential complication is glaucoma, which occurs when there is increased pressure inside the eye due to abnormal drainage of fluid. Glaucoma can also lead to vision loss and is often secondary to another eye problem, such as uveitis.

Additionally, older cats whose eyes return to their original blue colour may have experienced eye damage or could be going blind. While blue eyes are not a definitive sign of blindness, it is important to consult a veterinarian if this colour change occurs along with any difficulties in your cat's normal movement.

While eye colour changes in older cats can occur for various reasons, it is always a good idea to consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns. Taking pictures of your cat's eyes can help track colour changes and ensure your furry friend receives the care it needs.

Causes of eye colour changes

Cats' eyes are beautiful and unique, and they come in a variety of colours. While a kitten's eyes may change colour as it matures, an adult cat's eye colour typically remains the same. However, in rare cases, eye colour changes in adult cats can indicate a health issue.

Melanin

Melanin is the pigment in a cat's fur, skin, and eyes that is responsible for colour changes. Kittens are born without pigment in their eyes, which is why they all start off with blue eyes. As the kitten's body starts producing melanin, typically around 4-10 weeks into its life, the eye colour changes. The higher the amount of melanin, the brighter and more intense the eye colour will be.

Lighting

Changes in lighting can also affect the appearance of a cat's eye colour. The reflection of light on a cat's eyes can make them appear to glow in the dark, with the colour of the glow depending on the eye colour. For example, yellow eyes will glow green, while blue eyes will glow red.

Pupil Size

Variations in pupil size can also contribute to the perception of eye colour change. When a cat's pupils widen or constrict, the eyes can appear to change colour due to the way light reflects off the iris.

Health Issues

In some cases, eye colour change in adult cats can indicate underlying health issues. For example:

• Uveitis: an inflammation of the eyeball that can cause the eyes to appear abnormally yellow or red-orange.
• Jaundice: a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream, leading to yellow discolouration of the eyes and other body parts.
• Infections: bacterial, viral, parasitic, or protozoan infections can cause eye colour changes.
• Trauma: eye trauma or injury can lead to changes in eye colour.
• Serious ailments: sudden dark yellow or unusually brown eye colour can indicate a buildup of red blood cells in the eyeball, which may be linked to feline leukemia or AIDS.

It is important to monitor your cat's eye colour and overall health and seek veterinary advice if you notice any unexpected changes, as early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for your cat's well-being.

Frequently asked questions