A chimera is one individual organism, but genetically its own fraternal twin. Chimerism tends to occur very early in the embryonic development. It is often the result of two non-identical twin embryos merging together instead of growing on their own. When the organism forms, the cells that had already begun to develop in the separate embryos keep their original phenotypes and appearances. This means that the resulting animal is a mixture of tissues and can look like this striking cat.

For any doubters out there, according to Snopes, Venus is a very real moggy, “but her unusual physical appearance is more likely due to ordinary genetic variation than true chimerism.” But as far as we’re concerned, that doesn’t mean she’s any less awesome,

Visit Geekologie to watch a video of Venus doing what kitties do best.

This is hands down both the most gorgeous & badass cat I have ever seen.

(via archiemcphee)