Why are white tigers not true albinos?

White tigers are not true albinos because their coloration is caused by leucism, a genetic mutation that differs fundamentally from albinism. While albinism is characterized by a complete absence of the pigment melanin, white tigers retain the ability to produce certain types of this pigment.1

Specifically, the mutation in white tigers reduces the production of pheomelanin—the pigment responsible for red, orange, and yellow hues—but they still possess eumelanin. This allows them to maintain their dark brown or black stripes and blue eyes, whereas a true albino would lack pigment entirely.1

It is important to note that the breeding of white tigers for their appearance often involves inbreeding, which is an unethical practice that frequently leads to severe health issues, including heart defects, physical deformities, and increased cub mortality.1