When do cats turn gray?

Silvery hairs in an animal’s coat are a side effect of heredity or age. For example, black cats “turn gray” in early adolescence. Although this process is not at all connected with the gray hair itself. If gray or smoky individuals came across in the genus of a black animal, then it may well survive a one-, two-, or even three-fold color change, called “recolour.” Black kittens acquire their color only closer to a year and a half, until this moment their color can vary from brown to ashy.

In addition to the “overcolor” characteristic of black cats, there are a number of other reasons that cause gray hair, but have nothing to do with age. The color of an animal can be affected by changes in seasons or temperatures. For example, the coat of a Burmese, Siamese or Himalayan cat darkens during the cold season, while in summer it acquires a different shade, fading in the sun. True, such a change in color cannot be called gray hair, because it passes on its own over time.

Some owners confuse with gray hair a change in the pattern on the coat of an animal. A certain set of genes is responsible for it, which can only be activated in adulthood. The white hairs that appear look like gray hairs, but they are not, retaining the pigment.

Reasons for gray hair:

1. Disease – after an illness or operation, owners can often find tufts of gray hair in the animal. Allergies have the same effect.

2. Food – lack of amino acids, copper and macronutrients often leads to the appearance of gray hair in cats. It is these chemical elements that are responsible for the production of melanin, and their lack in food leads not only to gray hair, but also to a general pallor of color.

3. Stress – Like people, cats turn gray from grief or strong feelings. Moving or separation from the owner can lead to a change in color.

4. Age – over time, the color of the animal changes, but it is rather difficult to single out the exact period, since heredity also plays a role. Some acquire gray hair as early as 3-5 years, while others retain the brightness of the coat until death. The average data suggests that the appearance of gray hair is normal at 8-12 years old.

Contrary to popular belief, the appearance of gray hair does not indicate the imminent death of a pet and mandatory changes in its behavior (sleep more, move less). Rather, a change in pigmentation indicates a hereditary predisposition. But if, along with gray hair, you notice a change in food habits or behavior of the animal or the cat looks sick, then be sure to show the pet to the veterinarian.

August 5 2019

Updated: August 7, 2019