Chip Chick
The mutation was discovered when the researchers noticed there was a bit of sequence missing from the KIT gene, which is responsible for white fur patterns in cats.
The researchers also found that the genetic mutation in the Salty Licorice cats was recessive, meaning these cats could only inherit their fur from both parents, which could explain why the breed is rare.
So why are the cats called Salty Licorice cats? Because of their special salt and peppered fur, they reminded researchers of the salted black licorice that’s so popular in countries like Finland.
While it may be a long time before Salty Licorice cats are found in average households around the globe, the research on them has made great advances in the animal science world.
