White "socks" on cats' paws are a sign of a genetic mutation, American scientists have said.
According to the researchers, the amazing feature arose as a result of the domestication of the animal.
It is known that this feature is almost never found in wild cats. In nature, a cat with white paws will have a hard time camouflaging itself from enemies and during hunting, writes the LIFESCIENCE publication.
People first noticed graceful animals about 10 thousand years ago.
Presumably, cats with white "socks" on their paws approached human habitation because it was difficult for them to survive in the wild.
Scientists are not sure about this version, but point out that white spots in the coloring appear in all domesticated animals, including horses, pigs, mice, cows and rats.
It is noted that the appearance of white spots occurs even at the embryonic stage of development.
The cells responsible for fur color migrate throughout the body.
The animal will retain its uniform coloration if these cells move far. Otherwise, the embryo may end up with white legs, a muzzle, chest, and belly.
Previously, what color cats protect from negativity and help improve life.
