We are proud to announce that IconicSX Cattery is home to the first Sphynx cat with a genetically confirmed DBE Celestial gene. Our Queen Sofia is genetically confirmed heterozygous N/ DBECEL, one of the safest Dominant Blue Eye (DBE) genes recognised today. This line is the best studied and well known for its genetic health*, making it a cornerstone of our breeding program.
The DBE-CEL gene, previously classified under the DBE-Altai group, was officially identified and distinguished as a separate gene in 2024 by Professor Marie Abitbol. This autosomal dominant trait is celebrated for producing stunning blue-eyed and odd-eyed cats while ensuring their health and well-being.
What makes the DBE-CEL gene unique is its safety and reliability:
• No association with deafness.
• No link to Waardenburg-like symptoms - dystopia canthorum, a key diagnostic feature of Waardenburg Syndrome Types 1 and 3, is not present in DBE-CEL cats.
*
• “Dystopia canthorum was not observed in adult DBE cats from Altai, Celestial, British, Sphynx, and Siberian genetic backgrounds. The variant (DBE-CEL) was found in the Celestial breed and has not been associated with deafness.”
(Different Founding Effects Underlie Dominant Blue Eyes (DBE) in the Domestic Cat, Marie Abitbol et al., Animals [Basel], 2024).
DBE Variants: Understanding the Differences
One of the biggest challenges in breeding cats with Dominant Blue Eye (DBE) traits is the misconception that DBE is a single mutation. In reality, DBE encompasses multiple distinct mutations, including:
• DBE-Altai (DBE-ALT)
• DBE-Celestial (DBE-CEL)
• DBE-Rociri Elvis (DBE-RE)
Each of these variations has unique inheritance patterns and associated risks:
• The DBE-CEL gene, carried by our queen Sofia, is a safe and reliable mutation, free from health risks such as deafness or Waardenburg-like symptoms.
• The DBE-RE gene, in contrast, has been linked to deafness and Waardenburg-like syndrome.
At IconicSX, we are proud to confirm that none of our breeding cats carry the DBE-RE gene, ensuring the highest standards of health and safety in our breeding program.
The Importance of Responsible Breeding
Crossing different types of DBE mutations, such as DBE-CEL and DBE-RE, or breeding blue-eyed cats without genetic testing can result in serious health issues, including traits resembling Waardenburg Syndrome. Some DBE mutations are also homozygous-lethal, meaning kittens inheriting two copies of the gene may not survive (embrto is not viable).
To avoid these risks, it is crucial to understand the differences between DBE genes and avoid mixing incompatible mutations. At IconicSX Cattery, we are committed to responsible breeding practices and ensure that all our pairings are based on comprehensive genetic testing and compatibility.
Commitment to Health: BAER Testing and Genetic Certification
At IconicSX, we go above and beyond to ensure the health of our cats:
• All of our DBE and odd-eyed cats undergo BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) testing to confirm perfect hearing.
• Every DBE kitten leaves our cattery with a genetic certificate confirming their DBE status , guaranteeing full transparency and trust for their new families.
Special Thanks
We are deeply grateful to Professor Marie Abitbol for her groundbreaking research on DBE genes and for inviting us to join her research project, which has advanced our understanding of these fascinating traits.
Our heartfelt thanks also go to Sarah Hartwell for her incredible dedication to classifying, describing and organising genealogical data for DNA studies, which are invaluable to the breeding and scientific communities.
You can read more here: BLUE-EYE SPHYNX (ROXI DBECEL GENE)
At IconicSX Cattery, we celebrate the rare beauty and genetic diversity of the Dominant Blue Eye (DBE) gene while maintaining the highest standards of health and ethics.
Follow us to learn more about Sofia’s legacy and our upcoming litters!
We strongly recommend everyone to read:
Read more about DBE Gene: https://www.iconicsx.com/dbegene
Read more about our DBE & Odd Eyes Line here: https://www.iconicsx.com/s-projects-side-by-side
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