The term describes a specific coat color and pattern combination found in a recognized breed of domestic cat. The ‘blue’ refers to a dilute black coloration, appearing as a soft gray. ‘Silver’ indicates the presence of the inhibiting gene, which restricts pigment production at the base of the hair shaft, resulting in a shimmering, silvery appearance. The breed in question is known for its large size, long fur, and gentle disposition.
This particular coat variation is prized by breeders and enthusiasts for its aesthetic appeal and relative rarity within the breed. The genetics underlying the coat expression are complex, involving multiple genes that interact to produce the final visual phenotype. The popularity of this specific color and pattern contributes to the diversity and ongoing development within the breed’s gene pool, as breeders selectively pursue and refine these traits.