8 Unique Cat Eye Colors and Their Rarity Levels

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Odd-eyed cat
Jill-Schafer-Creative-Lab/PixaBay

Cats are charming, no doubt about that, but their eye colors truly elevate their allure to another level. While many cat owners may appreciate the traditional greens and blues, some feline companions possess eye colors that are exceedingly rare and simply mesmerizing. From the ethereal charm of dichroic eyes to the captivating depths of aqua, these unique hues offer more than just a pretty appearance, they tell stories of genetics, mystery, and the extraordinary diversity found within our beloved cats. So let’s dive into this colorful world to discover eight extraordinary cat eye colors and their rarity!

Albinism

An Albino cat
photodee/123RF

Albinism is a fascinating genetic condition that results in a striking appearance characterized by a lack of pigmentation. Cats with albinism typically have pale pink or light blue eyes, often complemented by white or very light fur. This unique look makes them stand out, yet they are incredibly rare. Breeds such as the Siamese can sometimes carry these genetic traits, although true albino cats are quite uncommon. Their delicate appearance often evokes a sense of ethereal beauty, but it’s essential to remember that their lack of pigment can make them more susceptible to sunburn and other environmental factors.

Dichroic

Macro shot of Cat with Dichoric eyes
granevsergey/123RF

Imagine a cat with eyes that shift in color, appearing as though two distinct hues reside within a single iris. This captivating trait, known as dichroic eyes, is exceptionally rare and mesmerizing. Cats exhibiting this eye color often have one half of their iris displaying one shade and the other half another, creating an entrancing visual effect. While specific breeds may display this rarity, it tends to be more of a unique genetic quirk than a breed standard. Owners of di-chronic-eyed cats often find themselves fascinated by the ever-changing expressions within those eyes, making every glance a delightful surprise.

Odd-Eyed

Black odd-eyed cat
Chris Yarzab -CC BY 2.0/Wikimedia Commons

Odd-eyed cats are a captivating sight, typically featuring one eye that is strikingly blue and the other a different color, often amber or green. This unique trait is particularly prevalent among white cats, where the contrast between the two eyes enhances their mesmerizing appearance. Breeds such as the Turkish Van and the Japanese Bobtail frequently display this rare coloration. The allure of cats with heterochromia lies not only in their beautiful, contrasting colors but also in the whimsical charm they exude, captivating the hearts of those who encounter them.

Aqua

Cat with aqua eyes
aaphperkins/123RF

Aqua eyes present a bewitching blend of blue and green, resembling the tranquil waters of a tropical paradise. This rare eye color is often found in the Tonkinese breed, known for their playful and affectionate nature. Aqua-eyed cats can capture the attention of anyone with their exotic look, appearing almost jewel-like in their vibrancy. The enchanting hue can shift subtly depending on the lighting, offering a dynamic visual experience.

Copper

Closeup of copper eyed cat
birgl/PixaBay

Copper eyes boast a deep, warm reddish-brown hue that evokes feelings of warmth and richness. This striking color is not only rare but also lends a unique character to the cats that possess it, often found in breeds like the Persian and the British Shorthair. The intensity of copper eyes can be mesmerizing, drawing more attention than one ought to. As these cats gaze back at you, their eyes seem to hold stories of warmth and companionship, making them all the more enchanting. Their regal appearance, enhanced by their eye color, often complements their luxurious fur, creating an impressive and captivating presence.

Hazel

Hazel-eyed cat
By Tizianpood – CC BY 4.0/Wikimedia Commons

To simply summarize Hazel eyes, think of it as a delightful mixture of green, gold, and brown. Exception aren’t they? Although not as rare as some other colors, hazel eyes can still make a cat stand out. This eye color is often found in domestic cats of various breeds, adding to their charm. The warmth of hazel eyes can seem inviting and friendly, reflecting the cat’s playful or gentle personality. Many cat lovers find themselves enchanted by the way light dances in a cat’s hazel eyes, providing a warm connection that draws them closer to these fascinating creatures.

Blue

Cat with blue eyes
cocoparisienne/PixaBay

Blue eyes are commonly associated with many breeds, particularly colorpoint cats like the Siamese and Ragdolls. While not the rarest compared to most others on this list, they still carry an air of mystique and charm. The clarity and vibrancy of blue eyes can be mesmerizing, often evoking feelings of tranquility. Cat owners with blue-eyed felines often feel a special connection, as the intense gaze seems to communicate emotions and feelings that transcend words.

Yellow

Cat with yellow eyes
Gruendercoach/PixaBay

Bright yellow eyes are perhaps the most common yet still captivating. This eye color often features a range of shades from pale gold to deep amber, found in many breeds including the Domestic Shorthair and the American Shorthair. Despite their prevalence, yellow eyes add an appealing vibrancy to a cat’s appearance. The striking contrast between their fur and their eyes can create a captivating look that draws admirers in. Yellow-eyed cats exude a sense of playfulness and curiosity, making them delightful companions that charm their way into the hearts of many.

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