Coat Color and Other Factors Influencing Hair Cortisol Concentration in Domestic Cats

This study investigated the impact of hair color on cortisol concentrations in domestic cats, using samples from 27 cats with black-and-white or ginger-and-white coats. Each cat provided two samples, one of white hair and one of the other color. Results showed that black hair had significantly higher cortisol levels than white hair (p = 0.016), while ginger hair did not show a significant difference compared to white hair (p = 0.613). Additionally, a significant positive correlation was found between hair cortisol levels and behavioral issues reported by owners (p = 0.010). This research highlights the potential influence of hair color on cortisol storage in cats, a factor not previously reported.