Genetic characterisation of the domestic cat population (Felis catus) in Valledupar – Cesar using coat markers

Abstract

The domestic cat (Felis catus) is a small carnivorous mammal belonging to the feline family. It is characterised by significant variability in terms of breeds, with females commonly smaller than males. Cats are one of the most popular pet species worldwide, though there is growing evidence that their large populations are having negative effects on the environment. Cats exhibit noticeable polymorphisms, particularly related to the colour, pattern, and texture of their coat, which can be easily recognised by visual inspection. This makes data collection a straightforward procedure. Cats are an ideal species for population studies because they are cosmopolitan animals and form a panmictic population. Genetic population analyses of cats are essential for understanding the history of their evolution and for developing phylogenetic hypotheses about allele relationships. However, despite the importance of these studies, global information availability is limited and, in some areas, completely absent. The aim of this study wasto determine the level of genetic diversity and structure in domestic cat populations using coat markers in Valledupar, Cesar. Random sampling was conducted between February and September 2022, and 365 adult animals were phenotypically identified in twelve neighbourhoods of the locality. The genes studied included Orange, Agouti, Dilution, Tabby, Long Hair, Siamese, Manx, Spotting White, and Dominant White. The Non-agoutimarker showed the highest frequency (0.740), while the Manx gene exhibited the lowest value. Most of the genetic diversity was found within populations and was limited between populations. Additionally, high gene flow, an excess of heterozygotes, and reduced genetic differentiation between populations were observed. The Spotting White locus showed a departure from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Genetic distance between populations and the obtained dendrogram revealed low significant values, indicating that the populations as a whole are closely related.