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Why Do White Cat’s Fur Turn Yellow – What You Should Know!

Why Do White Cat’s Fur Turn Yellow – What You Should Know!

White cats are widely considered some of the most beautiful. Their bright white coats catch the light and always catch attention. Plus, there’s something just a little odd about an all-white pet, a little unique. So, naturally, when white fur starts to turn yellow, most cat owners get concerned. Let’s get to it, why do white cats’ fur turn yellow?

There are a few reasons white fur might turn yellow. Age is a common reason, but your cat’s fur may also turn yellow from dirt, from poor nutrition, or because of health problems that affect the color of their skin and fur. Under or over-grooming can also change the color of your cat’s fur, and in some cases, may make their fur yellow. 

Here’s what you need to know about white fur turning yellow, what it means, and what you should do to make sure your cat is happy and healthy. 

Can White Cats Change Color

Most of the time, a cat’s color doesn’t change much in its life. Small changes, like the shape or size of a spot, changing, or the overall color of your cat getting a little lighter or a little darker are normal. But fast or significant changes in your cat’s skin and fur are almost always reasons for concern. 

And, in general, a white cat shouldn’t turn to a different color. 

However, in some rare cases, if you adopt a malnourished cat or already had health problems, resolving those problems can change its fur color. When that happens, it’s because they were naturally a darker furred cat, but their fur was paler than it should have been because of their malnutrition or poor health. 

That being said, your cat’s fur changing color isn’t always a bad thing or a sign of bad health. For instance, if your white cat is a Siamese, they will likely develop slightly more pigment as they age, and their body temperature gets slightly lower. A few other harmless conditions can make your white cat’s fur change, but if you don’t already know your cat has them (like when you buy a Siamese knowing that they have Siamese cat’s albinism), you should check with your vet to make sure. 

Why Is Your Cat’s Fur Turning Yellow

Turning yellow is one of the most concerning colors because, while it can be nothing, yellowing fur can also signify that your cat has jaundice. Jaundice can be caused by liver stress and liver failure. 

Just like in humans, jaundice is a serious condition and needs to be treated as soon as possible. If you notice your cat’s fur starting your yellow, contact your veterinarian and try to get an appointment as soon as you can. 

Why Does White Cat’s Fur Turn Orange

Orange fur is another concerning color in a white cat. That’s because orange fur is usually caused by saliva discoloration, which means that your cat is licking and grooming more than it should. 

Over-grooming can be caused by many problems, including fleas, ringworm, allergies, and many others. If your cat is starting to over-groom, it’s essential to see a vet to make sure you have the right diagnosis and treatment to help them feel better. 

Thankfully, saliva discoloration usually disappears once your cat isn’t over-grooming their fur. 

Is Jaundice In Cats Fatal

Jaundice, which is usually caused by a liver condition, and can make your cat’s fur turn yellow, can be a fatal condition, but it’s treatable. Most fatalities from jaundice happen when owners don’t take their cats in to see the vet quickly enough or when the source of the jaundice is resistant to treatment. 

Other signs of jaundice include yellowing of the ears, gums, and the whites of their eyes. 

How Long Does It Take For Jaundice To Go Away In Cats

The time it takes to help jaundice resolve varies depending on what caused it. Jaundice can be a liver disorder, a blood cell problem, a gall bladder problem, or other issues. Some cases can be resolved with supportive treatment regularly, while other problems may require a vet visit. 

Once the source of the jaundice is identified and treated, jaundice itself can usually be resolved within 6-12 weeks. 

What Is The Rarest Color Of Cat

The rarest color of a cat coat isn’t really a color so much as a condition. The rarest color is albino. However, not all white cats count as albinos. Only a handful of breeds, including Siamese cats, have albinism as a typical trait in the breed. 

Other breeds of cats can have albino members. Still, they’re usually rare and result from mutations that either aren’t passed along to their kittens or conditions that cause albinism but aren’t inheritable. Often albino cats aren’t allowed to breed, especially when they crop up in intentionally bred cats. 

How To Remove Yellow Stains From A White Cat

Removing yellow stains from a white cat’s fur can be challenging or straightforward, depending on the cause of the stain. Anytime you notice yellow on your cat’s fur, you should check them for other signs of yellowing since the yellow color can be a sign of jaundice. 

Once you’ve ruled out jaundice, though, the next step should be to figure out where the yellow color is coming from. 

Yellow discoloration can come from saliva discoloration, urine discoloration, dirt or dust, or almost any yellow thing your cat could have gotten into. Knowing which is causing the problem will tell you if you need to wipe your cat down, give them a bath, or stop letting them play outside.

If your cat has a stubborn stain, or the yellow color comes from something potentially dangerous (like a spice), you may need to give your cat a bath. First, try washing with plain water a little warmer than room temperature. If that doesn’t work, consider using a shampoo designed for cats

Do not use shampoo or soap meant for people. Since cats and people have different needs from a soap, you can’t guarantee that a soap meant for people will be safe for your cat’s skin and fur or safe for them to groom after.

Things To Consider

As your white cats get older, their fur may need more maintenance, just like any other cat. White fur shows malnutrition, disease, damage, and other problems faster than other colors of fur that both means that it can be harder to keep your cat’s fur looking sleek and luxurious and makes it a little easier to tell the health of your cat by looking at them. 

As your cat gets older, things like brushing, getting them higher quality food, or a senior cat’s food will help to keep your white cat looking good. Cat wipes and other cleaning tools may also help your cat look and feel better, even if they cannot groom themselves effectively. 

Remember, if you have any questions about your cat’s fur and skin health, your vet is the best resource. They’ll have the knowledge and experience to connect the symptoms to the problem and provide an effective treatment.