White and grey coats in a cat are normally a result of a mutation, not a specific trait limited to some breeds. Despite that, some breeds may be more likely than others to develop this mutation, either at birth or at a later stage in life.
In many cases, cats with white and grey coats are born as fully white cats but tend to develop distinct markings as they grow older. Meanwhile, in some cases, they inherit unique coats of white and grey shades directly from their parents.
Today, we discuss 18 cat breeds that are more likely to produce cats with the desired color patterns.
1. British Shorthair
White and gray coat is a fairly common color combination in British Shorthair cats. A coat with the desired mixture occurs due to a dilute gene responsible for lightening the shades of the fur.
A coat featuring white and gray coat isn't the only bi-color option you can choose. These cats also possess a combination of white and black, white and tabby, and orange and tabby, among others.
Additionally, the British Shorthair coat is also available in solid colors, some of which are cream, chocolate, black, cinnamon, red, and more.
2. Turkish Angora
Often referred to as the ballerinas of the cat world for their high-end appearance, Turkish Angoras are friendly cats with the ability to adapt to families and single individuals alike. These cats quickly become attached to their humans and may even show destructive behavior when isolated.
Smaller than most cat breeds, Turkish Angora cats are more resilient than they appear. And, with an average lifespan of 15-20, they are one of the longest-living breeds.
Featuring a silky cat, white and gray Angoras are the prized variety of the Turkish breed. These cats can cost anywhere from $1000 to $2000, while rescued cats are cheaper than purchasing a kitten from a breeder.
3. Norwegian Forest Cat
The national cat of Norway, Norwegian forest cats were once on the verge of extinction due to uncontrolled mixed-breeding with other feline breeds. But, thanks to the effort made by King Olav V of Norway, the cat was saved.
The white and gray coat isn't the most recognizable bi-color pattern in Norwegian cats. Meanwhile, due to the wide breeding of these cats, this coat isn't rare either.
Moreover, the Norwegian breed has a naturally light tone to survive the harsh winter of Norway, especially in inland areas. Their long legs help them maintain a low center of mass, thus aiding in walking across snow.
4. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are the weird anomaly of the cat world; they enjoy taking baths and often show dog-like behaviors. These felines are known to greet their humans at the front door and may even demand occasional petting.
All Ragdoll cats are born solid white but develop other shades as they grow older. On average, it can take up to two weeks before they embrace their true coat color.
Normally, bi-colored Ragdolls have a signature V-shaped color pattern on their face. Their head, limbs, and tail are usually covered with darker hair, whereas the other parts develop a a lighter tone.
5. Birman Cat
Once endorsed by the legendary British singer Freddie Mercury, Birman cats have a long history with humans and an interesting mythology regarding their origin. During their initial years in Burma, these cats were mostly raised by priests in temples.
Birman and Burmese are confused as the same breeds; however, these cats have unique differences that set them apart from each other. You can distinguish these cats with little knowledge about both of these breeds- Birmans are relatively muscular than Burmese, and normally have blue eyes. On the other hand, a Burmese cat possesses exotic yellow eyes.
6. Egyptian Mau
While there are multiple varieties and hybrids of this Egyptian breed, the silver Egyptian Mau is considered a particularly high-end end. Extremely rare, these cats can cost up to $2500 when bought from a reputed breeder.
As the Egyptian Mau comes from a hot climate, they are more sensitive to cold. While their white and gray coat can absorb sunlight better than most other colors, they have not yet adapted to live in the cold conditions of Europe.
If you live in a cold region and to rescue an Egyptian Mau, make sure that the cat is kept completely indoors to avoid damages caused by extreme cold.
7. Turkish Van
A rare breed, the Turkish Van is an expert in climbing; it loves resting on high spots that most humans can't even reach. The cat also shows behaviors that are considered abnormal for feline, such as playing with water and socializing with dogs.
Although these cats are not particularly harmful, they possess an instinct for reckless behaviors like stealing toys, breaking valuable items, and sleeping in high spots. Adult humans may not have much problem living with a companion of this nature; however, these cats are not suitable for living with families that have young children.
8. Maine Coon
Maine Coons are one of the few breeds with a waterproof coat; the main purpose of this coat is to protect the cat against the wet and cold weather of their natural habitat. These felines, with a relatively slower growth rate than other cats, can take up to 5 years to reach their majestic size.
Lighter colors in a Maine Coon's coat patterns have helped these kitties camouflage in snow and receive maximum light during the day. Among the multiple white and gray choices, the smoke pattern is considered the most appealing to humans. This coat consists of a white undercoat and gray guard hair, giving the cat a perfect look.
9. Devon Rex
Native to England, the Devon Rex is named after the county of its origin. In addition to their uniquely lean, physique, these cats are famous for their curly hair.
Devon Rex is a relatively new cat breed, discovered in 1959. The breed's existence started with the discovery of a male feral cat with curly hair by a cat enthusiast named Beryl Cox. When Cox found that the cat she discovered had a litter, she used them for further breeding.
The Devon Rex is considered a truly unique breed, thanks to its
10. American Shorthair
Known for their distinctive short coat, American Shorthair cats can be found in multiple solid and bi-color options along with their famous tabby pattern. The chinchilla pattern, meanwhile, involves a white undercoat and gray spots or tickings.
This unique pattern is predominantly white, with ticking on the head, tail, and back. Paired with their yellow eyes, American Shorthairs are indeed pleasing to the eyes as a symbol of nature's beauty.
11. Ragamuffin Cat
Though not a pure breed, the Ragamuffin was created by crossbreeding Ragdolls with Himalayan and Persian cats in the late 20th century. However, as time passed, the criteria for the breed's development changed. As of now, only cats born of two Ragamuffins can be accepted to the breed.
With only a few breeders in the US and Europe, the Ragamuffin is a rare breed. Purchasing a kitten from a certified breeder can cost you over $1500; so, these cats may not be the best choice for a new cat owner.
12. Tonkinese Cat
Tonkinese cats with white and gray coats are relatively rare, making them exotic to cat owners. This pattern is caused by the genes that these cats inherited from their ancestors - Burmese and Siamese cats. Due to this, white and gray Tonkinese cats can be born from cats of other colors.
The gray coloration is primarily developed as a result of the loss in the black pigmentation's intensity. The pattern is highly likely is cold regions where they don't require a dark coloration to reflect heat.
13. American Bobtail
The American Bobtail, unique for its short tails, was developed in the '60s by crossing a short-tailed brown tabby cat with a domestic cat. The length of each cat is different, possibly between 1 to 4 inches in length.
Often used as therapy animals, American Bobtails are gentle and affectionate. They are friendly with humans and tend to enjoy a family life. Additionally, these cats are also active and love to play games like fetch.
14. Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex has a short coat that doesn't shed frequently. Although considered a hypoallergenic breed, they shed minimally and will require occasional grooming.
With over 40 color variations, the Cornish Rex breed is categorized through different physical characteristics, other than their coat colors. The bi-color pattern of white and gray is of particularly high value.
15. Snowshoe Cat
Considered one of the rarest breeds in the world, a single Snowshoe cat cost you around $2000-$4000. While these cats are born fully white, the thermal fluctuations in different parts of their bodies can cause their hair to grow darker. The regions that remain cooler tend to grow a grayish tone, whereas hair in hotter areas turns black.
Another distinctive feature of this breed is their signature blue eyes. These eyes are shaped like walnuts, unlike the rounded eyes of their ancestor, the Siamese. Atypical to most cats, these cats also love playing with water and normally don't resist baths.
16. Chartreux Cat
At first glance, a Chartreux cat might appear cold and distant. And, judging by their quiet nature, you won't be wrong to assume so. However, what most people misunderstand about this breed is that these cats are extremely affectionate, despite their appearance.
Chartreux cats are also expert mousers, used by farmers to get rid of rodents. As companions, they're even better. These cats love to hang out with humans and can grow attached to their owners. Their rare meows are perfect for people who enjoy a quiet and peaceful environment.
17. Persian Cat
With a history of over four centuries, Persian cats have become a highly-demanded breed. Their most recognizable feature is the flat face, developed as a result of careful breeding.
Normally, Persian cats can have a mix of gray and white, with various patterns possible - including a white face, chest, and paws with gray covering the rest of the body. The combination of the two colors provides them with a unique appearance.
18. Scottish Fold
The hallmark of the Scottish Fold is, of course, its folded ears that give the breed an owl-like appearance. The fold can vary, with some cats having either single, double or even triple folds.
Additionally, Scottish Folds are extremely friendly and affectionate. They easily become friends with their family members and even other pets. Their low energy levels make them the perfect breed for individuals living in apartments.
Just don't let their tendency to stand upright freak you out. Other than that, they are the ideal pet for any household.
