Ticked coat colour / Abyssinian tabby 2 variants (DKK4-related) - Cat

Ticked tabby in cats

This genetic analysis tests two DKK4 variants that influence the Ticked coat pattern. Ticked is also described as Abyssinian tabby or a pattern in which the classic body stripes are strongly reduced, while individual hairs can show banding.

What is visible in the coat?

In ticked cats, body stripes are less clear or almost absent. The face, legs and tail can still show markings. The visible result depends on the specific DKK4 variant, the combination with other tabby alleles and the base colour.

Practical value of this test

• Tests the TiCK and TiA variants in DKK4.
• Helps predict whether a cat can show or pass on ticked tabby.
• Supports breeding plans in breeds where ticked patterns are important.

Inheritance

The tested DKK4 variants act dominantly on the tabby pattern. A positive result can reduce striping, while other coat-colour genes influence how strongly the effect is visible.