A cat’s unique coat, which is the result of vitiligo, has stunned viewers online.
Gatsby, a black cat, has a white, spotted pattern resembling a galaxy of stars on his coat. He took the internet by storm after a video of him shared to Instagram on July 1 went viral. The short clip, shared by his owner under @gatsbygalaxykitty, has garnered more than 1 million likes and has captivated viewers worldwide.
Viewers were able to see Gatsby lying down on a bed, showing off his striking fur, which he owes to vitiligo; despite occurring in humans, it is a relatively rare condition in cats and dogs.
“Vitiligo manifests as patches of depigmented skin and fur, usually appearing as white spots that can vary in size and location,” Nita Vasudevan, a veterinary consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance, told Newsweek. “While the exact cause is unknown, it is thought to be an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own pigment-producing cells.”
Fortunately, vitiligo is primarily a cosmetic condition and does not pose a threat to the general health of cats.
“It does not cause pain, itching, or any form of physical discomfort,” Vasudevan added. “Cats with vitiligo can live normal, healthy lives without any adverse effects directly from the condition.”
@gatsbygalaxykitty Gatsby, my Galaxy Kitty, thinks you’re all perfect just the way you are! Don’t change for him!✨️🐈⬛❤️ Happy Tuesday, friends. #gatsbygalaxykitty #crazycatlady #happytuesday #cats #vitiligo #ilovecats #ilovemycat #beautifulcat #catsoftiktok #tiktokcat #tiktokcats #tuxedocatsoftiktok #tuxedocat #favoritesong #inxs
While there is no cure for vitiligo, treatment is generally unnecessary due to its benign nature. However, regular veterinary checkups are recommended to ensure the overall health of cats with vitiligo, as the condition can sometimes be associated with other autoimmune disorders.
“Depigmented areas may be more sensitive to sunlight, so protecting these areas from excessive sun exposure can prevent potential skin damage,” the veterinary consultant said. “As with any pet, a balanced diet and possibly supplements to support overall skin health might be beneficial, although no specific diet has been proven to affect vitiligo progression.”
Gatsby’s mesmerizing look and the love shown by his owner through his dedicated Instagram account have struck a chord with social-media users.
“What in the Van Gogh of the kitty world,” one user, @shubhamraghav_, posted.
