Cat Coat Calculator
Predict your cat’s coat type and colour from parent traits
Parent 1 Coat
Parent 2 Coat
Parent 1 Colour
Parent 2 Colour
Cat Coat Genetics: What Determines a Cat’s Coat?
A cat’s coat — both length and colour — is determined by multiple genes inherited from both parents. Our cat coat calculator gives you a simplified prediction of possible kitten coat types and colours based on parent traits.
Coat Length Genetics
| Cross | Expected Kittens |
|---|---|
| Short x Short | ~75% short, ~25% long (if both carry gene) |
| Short x Long | ~50% short (carry long gene), ~50% long |
| Long x Long | ~100% long hair |
| Rex x Straight | ~50% straight (carry Rex gene) |
Coat Colour Basics
Coat colour in cats is controlled by genes including the B gene (black/brown), the O gene (orange, X-linked), the W gene (white, dominant), and the D gene (dilute, recessive). For deeper colour genetics prediction, see our cat genetics calculator.
FAQs
Is long hair dominant or recessive in cats?
Long hair is recessive. A cat needs two copies of the long-hair gene (one from each parent) to have a long coat. A cat with only one copy will appear short-haired but can pass the gene to kittens.
Can two short-haired cats produce a long-haired kitten?
Yes — if both parents are heterozygous (carrying one long-hair gene each), approximately 25% of their kittens will be long-haired, even though both parents appear short-haired.
Conclusion
Our cat coat calculator gives you a fun, science-based prediction of kitten coat types and colours. For a deeper genetic exploration, visit our cat genetics calculator and cat color genetics calculator. Track your new kittens’ health with our cat age guide.