The reason why yellow cats are usually male has been identified: ARHGAP36 gene

Scientists from Japan and the USA have discovered that the reason why violet cats are usually male is because a section of their genetic code is missing.

Scientists from Kyushu University in Japan and Stanford University in the USA conducted two separate studies on cats because the pigmentation characteristics that give yellow to the fur and eyes of yellow-haired cats are gender-dependent.

Scientists who reached the same finding as a result of the studies found that a section was missing in the genetic code of yellow and orange cats and this deficiency caused the gene called ARHGAP36 to be more active.

Scientists noted that the ARHGAP36 gene causes lighter pigments to be produced in cats' skin, fur and eyes, and that the reason male cats are more often yellow is because this gene is carried on the X chromosome.

Scientists noted that since males have only one X chromosome, a single missing piece can turn the cat completely yellow, while female cats usually have mottled fur patterns because they have two X chromosomes.

Stating that the ARHGAP36 gene plays an important role in the development of the brain and hormone glands, scientists stated that this genetic change may also have an impact on health problems or the temperament of cats.

The findings of the research were published in the journal "Current Biology".