Identification of a Novel Missense Mutation in the Fibroblast Growth Factor 5 Gene Associated with Long Hair in the Maine Coon Cat

The study identified a novel missense mutation in the FGF5 gene, termed Mutation 5 (M5), associated with the longhair phenotype in Maine Coon cats. This mutation was found in four Maine Coons in a compound heterozygous state with another known FGF5 mutation, suggesting its contribution to the longhair trait. Genetic screening of 277 cats showed that M5 was specific to Maine Coons, with an allele frequency of 1.4% and contributing to the longhair trait in about 3% of the breed. This discovery added to the understanding of FGF5 variants affecting hair length in cats, aiding genetic testing and breeding practices.