Breaking Mews! Meet The Salty Licorice Cat

In a world filled with adorable feline companions, the Salty Licorice cat stands out as a delightful newcomer that’s capturing attention from animal lovers nationwide. Characterized by its striking dark coat, subtle charcoal-striped patterning, and bright eyes, this unique breed has recently emerged on the radar of cat enthusiasts and genetic researchers alike. Early evidence suggests that the Salty Licorice cat’s distinctive appearance may be rooted in a rare gene sequence influencing fur pigmentation, giving it that glossy, licorice-like sheen. Yet, looks aren’t the only thing drawing interest. Enthusiasts and veterinarians report that these cats tend to display a confident, curious temperament, making them exceptional companions for both experienced cat owners and newcomers to the world of feline care. As the Salty Licorice cat continues to gain popularity, many are keen to learn more about its origins, behavior, and what makes it a truly one-of-a-kind addition to any home.

There’s a new kitty on the scene … and she’s really, really cute. The Salty Licorice cat is sporting a stunning coat that is exactly on fashion. These exquisite kitties—also known as salmiak cats—have ombre, or gradient, colored fur, which is usually black at the roots and white at the ends. Keep reading to discover more about this gorgeous cat from an Askov, MN veterinarian.

Is Fluffy A New Breed?

Salmiak kitties have not been officially recognized as a new breed, though that could possibly change down the road. The name simply refers to the color of Fluffy’s coat.

Where Did Salty Licorice Cats Originate From?

Fluffy resides in Petäjävesi, Finland. The town is well-known for its lakes, farms, and magnificent 18th-century wood-log church and is situated in a gorgeous environment—at least that is what it was known for. The Salty Licorice cat has to now be included in the list of noteworthy characters, must-see sites, and intriguing locals of the town.

Why Is Fluffy Called The Salty Licorice Cat?

The cats were called following a popular Finnish cuisine. As one should expect, it is composed of Salmiak salt-coated licorice. Popular in Scandinavia, northern Germany, and the Benelux, the treat—sometimes called Salmiak liquorice or Salmiac licorice—is very much a local favorite.

Describe The Appearance Of A Salted Licorice Kitten

Fluffy looks like a tuxedo cat except her dark coat has white fleckings. Although Salmiak cats usually have deeper black fur, under that distinctive pattern, they may have blue, brown, or tortoiseshell coats. (We actually believe the brown ones should be known as Salted Caramel kittens). Usually, their tails are either wholly or partially white. Fluffy typically has gorgeous green or yellow eyes.

When Did The First Salty Licorice Kitten Come Into The World?

Nobody knows who originally discovered or embraced the Salty Licorice cat. Fluffy became well-known in 2007 when it was discovered that several of Petajavesi’s kitties had an avant-garde sense of fashion.

Since all wild felines of that hue had been fixed, nobody knew initially whether the cats could breed. The riddle was solved when one of the chic cats produced some quite lovely kittens.

Can I Give My Cat Licorice?

Apart from the chance of a kitty choking on a bigger amount, licorice causes little damage to our feline friends. Research indicates, indeed, that it has anti-inflammatory properties and might even be beneficial for pets with respiratory problems. Still more study is required, though. In any case, we do not advise rewarding Fluffy with licorice. Actually, unless your Askov, MN veterinarian specifically tells you to, do not feed your cat any herbs or drugs. If you want to give your furry little pal something special, stick with approved options, like plain, boneless fish, chicken, or meat.

That said, some of our feline buddies seem to truly enjoy licorice’s taste. Our kitty companions have a genetic defect that prevents them from tasting sweetness. Most likely, Fluffy is attracted by the texture or scent. Some cats, of course, seem to have missed the memo: kitties have been known to eat cake, cookies, and donuts. While it would be adorable to share your donut with your furry friend, it’s better to just keep sweet foods away from her. Not only are they high in sugar, but several also contain xylitol—often referred to as birch sugar—which is toxic to cats.

See your veterinarian for further guidance on treat giving for your cat.

Why Does The Salty Licorice Cat Have Such Unique Fur?

In a word? Genetics. A recent study examined this cute kitty’s family tree. Leading the official research were animal rights activists and geneticists from the University of Helsinki, Hannes Lohi acting as the main investigator.

Lohi and his colleagues examined five Salty Licorice cats. None of the cats had the exact gene changes causing white fur. (Note: These alterations are also linked to deafness, which is why so many white dogs and cats have hearing loss.) After looking over the complete genomes of the cats, they found a distinct mutation in a gene called KIT. This gene is also linked to piebald patterns in horses and other animals.

Apart from the five Salmiak animals, the study involved 178 other cats with normal fur. Every Salmiak kitten carried two copies of the pertinent gene variant, sometimes referred to as w-sal or salmiak. A handful more kitties had one copy. Since the gene is recessive, none of the hairy carriers could wear Salmiak colors and patterns.

The findings were written up in May in the journal Animal Genetics.

The Background Of Salted Licorice

Originally developed and popularized by Danish candymakers Galle and Jessen, these small black sweets first became well-known in the 1800s and are still beloved today. Admittedly, cuddling up on a chilly night with a purring cat and a bowl of treats seems very nice!

There are many recipes accessible online. These are little deviations from the same basic idea.

Here’s a typical recipe:

Bring eight tablespoons of unsalted butter, one cup of sugar, half a cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup of blackstrap molasses, and one-eighth teaspoon of kosher salt boiling in a pot. Remove from the fire then add half a cup of dark corn syrup, three-quarters of a cup of whole wheat flour, 1.5 teaspoons of anise essence, and one-half teaspoon of black food dye. (Tip: You can replace heavy cream with condensed milk and brown rice syrup for dark corn syrup for a healthier take.) Chill for 30 to 45 minutes after pouring into a pan covered with parchment paper; then remove and shape. Season it with salt, please! You will have to let it chill once more.

If you are truly inclined, you may purchase a mold to transform your treats into feline-shaped snacks. (Fun fact: In Finland, katjes are another name for these delicacies.)

Are Salted Licorice Cats Expensive?

Right now, it is not easy to say. These charming kitties are rare. To the best of our knowledge, they have not yet departed from Finland. Although we can all agree that the Salted Licorice kittens are lovely, as animal lovers we have an unofficial responsibility to spread awareness of the bad sides of the designer breed mania. Regretfully, this fuels long-standing issues including mistreatment, hoarding, and pet overpopulation. This is one case in which the maxim “Adopt, don’t shop” is absolutely pertinent. There are far too many beautiful, friendly cats stuck in shelters who are seeking a new residence!

The Salted Licorice cat is a new coat color, not a new breed overall. Though their deeper coat tones are “frosted,” or salted, with white, the cats resemble tuxedo cats. Named after a common local food, salted licorice, these stylish, fashion-forward cats are peculiar to Finland’s Petäjävesi area.

Salty Licorice Cat: Understanding the Genetic Foundations and Pattern Development in 2025

How does this pattern fit into the broader context of cat genetics?

This coat pattern arises from a distinct recessive mutation in the KIT gene, which regulates pigment distribution in various species. Like other genetic variants shaping feline appearance, these salmiak coats depend on inheriting two copies of the altered gene. Similar genetic changes have produced white markings, piebald patterns, and other striking fur colors in domestic cats. The Salty Licorice pattern represents another emerging phenotype influenced by known genetic pathways. Its discovery broadens understanding of feline coat variation and helps clarify how inherited traits create diverse and dynamic feline appearances.

What was the timeline of the genetic research?

The genetic exploration of these unique coat patterns began following the recognition of the cats’ distinct coloration in 2007. Over time, Finnish researchers collected and examined samples from a small population of Salty Licorice cats, eventually identifying a unique KIT gene mutation. After thorough genome sequencing and analysis, the results were published in May in Animal Genetics. This progression, from the initial observation of the cats to the formal genetic studies and published results, reflects a systematic approach that likely took several years. The timeline covered observational phases, sample collection, genetic mapping, and conclusive reporting.

How were additional salmiak cats found?

Additional salmiak cats surfaced when ongoing observation of the feline population in Petäjävesi, Finland revealed more individuals displaying the striking black-and-white ombre coats. Initially, no one knew if this pattern could persist since many wild cats of that hue were already sterilized. Eventually, one of these uniquely patterned felines produced kittens with the same distinctive coloring. Subsequent genetic analysis determined that these cats carry a recessive mutation in the KIT gene. Confirming that the trait was inherited, this discovery allowed further identification of additional salmiak cats.

How does the pattern vary among individual cats?

Individual cats display variations in their salmiak coat pattern based on genetic differences influencing fur coloration. Although all share a distinctive black-and-white gradient, underlying hues such as brown, blue, or tortoiseshell may emerge beneath the dark coat. Some show more pronounced white flecking across their torsos or entirely white tails, while others retain primarily black fur accented by subtle lighter areas. Genetic factors, including specific mutations in the KIT gene, create these unique patterns, and each cat’s coloring can differ slightly, resulting in a diverse range of salmiak appearances among the population.

Is the pattern visible from birth?

This distinctive pattern results from a recessive gene variant carried by both parents. The recessive mutation affects pigment distribution, giving the fur its trademark gradient. Since pigmentation and coat color are genetically programmed, the pattern emerges as soon as the kittens’ fur begins to grow. Newborns display these variations early, though some tonal shifts may become more pronounced as they mature. None of the studied Salty Licorice cats carried the typical white-fur genes commonly linked to deafness. Instead, the mutation involves the KIT gene, tied to piebald patterns in other animals, ensuring that distinctive markings appear right from birth.

Plan A Visit To Your Askov, MN Pet Clinic

Does your cat friend require vaccines, a check-up, or parasite control? Has your cat not lately come inside? Please contact us at your neighborhood Askov, MN pet clinic for all of your cat’s veterinarian needs. We are always happy to help!