What is a fever coat?

Fever coat is described as unusually light or silver-tipped fur on kittens, which is a temporary condition during the high stress, ill health, or fever of pregnant cats. The disturbance of pigment cell migration causes the peculiar pale color. Normal coloration returns after the first natural shedding.

Disruption of pigment cells produces this odd appearance. Increased body temperature from the mother results in melanocytes migrating finely along the pigmentation in the hair follicle. These pigment-producing cells arrive at an advanced stage of follicular development. Thus, as they are situated chiefly in the area of the roots, the tips of the hair will be pale. This condition is never associated with any genetic changes in the kittens.

Kittens are cared for ordinarily despite the unusual coat. Provide proper food and warmth for any newborn. Watch for normal gain in weight and activity. There is no special treatment required for the coat change. The ordinary methods of grooming will assist the healthy growth of fur. The permanent colors appear regularly.

Differentiate fever coat from other conditions. Vitiligo causes permanent loss of pigmentation, which typically progresses with age. Tipping in color appears at specific points, such as in the Siamese. Ghost tabby markings appear striped, not uniformly frosted. The fever coat affects the coat evenly all over at birth.

Breeders should minimize stress for brood queens. Keep the environment stable in late gestation. Take care of health problems promptly. Record the health events in Queens to explain unusual litter. These methods will prevent the development of fever coats and, at the same time, assure the well-being of the kittens.

Read the full article: Cat Coat Patterns: A Visual Guide