When you see photos of cats or dogs with unusual features on the Internet, you probably wonder: “Is this really Photoshop?” However, many animals do have unique features that are the result of genetic mutations that usually occur randomly. For example, Scottish Fold cats owe their unusual ears to a mutation in the Fd gene. Let's get acquainted with amazing animals that nature has endowed with a unique appearance thanks to incredible genetic mutations.
Some mutations make animals even more beautiful. Image source: koshka.top
Contents
- 1 Cats with large paws and extra fingers
- 2 Dogs and cats with vitiligo
- 3 Muscle hypertrophy in animals
- 4 Cat with extra ears
Cats with large paws and extra fingers
Some cats can have an amazing mutation – polydactyly, which manifests itself in the fact that more toes than usual appear on the paws. Instead of the standard five on the front paws and four on the back paws, such cats may have six, seven or even eight toes on one paw.
Kittens with polydactyly. Image source: reddit.com
This feature is caused by a mutation in the Sonic Hedgehog SHH gene (yes, it's named after the speedy hedgehog Sonic), which is responsible for the formation of limbs in the embryo. When this gene changes, the cells that form the fingers divide differently, and cats with unusual “gloves” are born.
Polydactyly is common in Maine Coon cats. Image source: reddit.com
Polydactyly is inherited: if at least one of the parents is a carrier of the mutation, there is a high probability that the kittens will also have extra toes. Usually, this does not prevent cats from leading an active lifestyle – they can easily walk, climb and even catch prey. In rare cases, problems with nails may occur, which require attention and care.
Dogs and cats with vitiligo
Vitiligo in dogs and cats is a rare disease that appears as white or discolored spots on the skin and fur due to loss of pigmentation.
Dogs of Different Breeds with Vitiligo. Image Source: reddit.com
The main cause of vitiligo is the destruction of the cells responsible for producing melanin, which leads to the disappearance of pigment in these areas. This may be due to a genetic predisposition, with some breeds such as Siberian Huskies, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds being more susceptible to the condition.
Some dog breeds are more likely to develop vitiligo than others. Image source: reddit.com
Vitiligo typically appears as discolored patches on the face, around the nose and eyes, and on the paws. Over time, the patches can grow larger and appear on other parts of the body.
Vitiligo is most noticeable on the face. Image source: reddit.com
Vitiligo does not affect the quality of life of dogs, they remain just as active and healthy. However, their unique appearance attracts attention and makes them truly special. Look at these unusual pets – they are adorable!
Awesome cat with vitiligo. Image source: reddit.com
Read also: 5 appearance deviations that make people unique
Muscle hypertrophy in animals
Mutation in the myostatin gene (MSTN)can turn an ordinary animal into a real bodybuilder. Myostatin is a protein that normally limits muscle growth so that they develop within normal limits. But if this gene fails, the muscles begin to grow almost without stopping. As a result, animals with this mutation become incredibly muscular and physically developed, looking much stronger than their relatives.
Dog with muscle hypertrophy. Image source: reddit.com
A cat with huge muscles. Photo source: reddit.com
While such changes may seem attractive, because more muscle mass means more strength, it also carries its own risks. Too much hypertrophy can lead to joint problems, as well as put stress on the heart and blood vessels. So in muscles, as in everything, balance is important. But we must admit that animals with such a mutation really do look impressive!
Everyone should know about this:What are the mutations and how do they differ?
A cat with extra ears
In 2021, a cat named Midas became an internet sensation thanks to her unusual appearance. The thing is, she has four ears! Thanks to a genetic mutation, she has two regular ears and two extra, slightly smaller ones on her head.
Midas the cat with extra ears. Image source: reddit.com
Despite her uniqueness, Midas acts like a normal kitten: she plays, runs around the house, explores every corner, and loves to nap, snuggled on her back. The vet confirmed that she has perfect hearing and is in excellent health, and that her extra ears do not interfere with her life in any way. A few months after gaining fame, she was tested again to make sure there were no other genetic abnormalities.
No one knows exactly which gene affected the animal's ears. Image source: reddit.com
The mutation that caused Midas to have extra ears probably affected genes responsible for the development of head and ear tissues during the embryonic period. One of these genes may be HOXA2, which plays an important role in the formation of skull structures and hearing organs. However, it is difficult to determine the exact gene responsible for four ears, since such mutations are extremely rare and require detailed genetic research.
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These amazing genetic anomalies clearly demonstrate how diverse and unpredictable nature can be. What about humans? Are there mutations that make us more attractive? Of course, yes!