Scientists solve the mystery of ginger cats – helped by hundreds of cat owners

Scientists have finally cracked the genetic code behind why some cats have that striking orange fur—and they couldn’t have done it without the help of hundreds of cat owners. Two new studies, one from Stanford and another from Japan, pinpointed the specific gene mutation responsible for ginger coats. But here’s the cool part: the discovery isn’t just about cats—it could help us understand how cells and tissues work across species, including humans. Plus, the project turned into a rare collaboration between researchers and everyday pet lovers, bridging the gap between labs and living rooms.