13 Fun Facts About Tuxedo Cats

Tuxedo cats, we’ve all seen them, and we all love them, but what are they exactly? Are they a special cat breed? Are they only a type of coloration, and are they rare? We’ve gathered all the essential info about tuxedo cats to answer your questions. Here are some entertaining facts about the adorable tuxedo cats!

Fact No. 1 – Tuxedo Cats Are Not a Breed

Even though these black and white felines have a name, they are not a breed. Tuxedo refers to the combination of colors on the cat that makes them look like a person wearing a suit. The name “Tuxedo” refers to a specific type of coloration, but this can occur in virtually any cat breed. You can get male or female tuxedo cats.

Moreover, it can occur with colors other than black and white. So even though the best-known tuxies are black and white, there is virtually no limit to the color combination for tuxies. And that’s not all.

This coloration can occur in cats with long coats, short coats, shaggy coats, silky coats, or any other coat type. This is why there are plenty of variations when it comes to tuxies. But how does it all happen? This takes us to the second fact on our list – genetics.

Fact No. 2 – The Tuxedo Coloring Comes From Their Genes

That’s right, it’s all in their genes. The bi-color pattern that makes these cats look like they are wearing a tuxedo comes from their genetic background. Cats can get the tuxie gene from their parents or from some other member of their family tree.

The gene will make them have a dominant and a second color that is less represented on their bodies. Among the specific traits are the socks (in the second color, usually lighter) and the mask – the effect created by the color combination on the cat’s face. Learn about patterns and colors in cats.

Fact No. 3 – There Are Several Types of Tuxedo Cats

As we’ve mentioned above, the tuxedo gene can affect any cat. This makes the variation of tuxies absolutely enormous. The best-known type of tuxedo kitty is black (dominant) and white patches with short silky fur.

But there are so many types of tuxies in many colors and breeds. Orange and white cats, or grey and white cats, are relatively common, but there are others too. So yes, there can also be Ragdoll tuxedo cats, and they are gorgeous.

Fact No. 4 – Tuxedo Cats Are Smarter Than the Average Cat

Not only are they more elegant than many other cats, but tuxies are also more intelligent. Tuxedo kittens develop much quicker than other cats, both physically and mentally. They tend to hit cognitive milestones much earlier as well. These cats are brilliant, which also makes them excellent companions.

Fact No. 5 – Tuxedo Cats Are Not Rare

The gene that gives tuxies their famous color pattern is quite powerful, which has produced quite a few tuxedo cats over the years. So they are certainly not rare, but if you are looking to get a tuxedo of your own, you have better chances of finding one in a shelter than at a cattery. Learn about Cat Rescue Organizations.

Fact No. 6 – There Is Such a Thing as “Tuxitude”

The term “tuxitude” refers to the particular attitude of tuxedo cats. What makes these cats easy to spot is their black and white coats and their elegant attitude. However, despite their solemn appearance, tuxies are said to have dog-like personalities.

They are extremely friendly, playful, and outgoing but also affectionate, making them very nice to be around. They create close bonds with their owners and have a friendly attitude to new people.

Fact No. 7 – Tuxedo Cats Might Have Magical Powers

People say that their black and white coats make tuxies virtually invisible during a vernal or diurnal equinox. In fact, some regard this as proof of their magical powers.

If you are open to the spiritual side, then a tuxedo cat might be the companion you are looking for. Or a tuxie can show you the magic in the world.

Fact No. 8 – Tuxies Were Worshiped in Ancient Egypt

As you might already know, ancient Egyptians worshiped cats. So much so that several Egyptian goddesses were depicted as cats.

You may also know that cat decorations were a trendy choice for Egyptian tombs and that there are plenty of cats featured in hieroglyphics. But you should be aware that over 70% of these cats are tuxedo cats. So again, this shows a clear preference for the Egyptians.

Fact No. 9 – One Particular Tuxie is a Millionaire

In 1998, a tuxedo cat named Sparky inherited a vast $6.3 million when his owner passed away. It’s safe to say that Sparky is the richest cat in the entire world. This story should emphasize the special bond between tuxies and their owners. Read about celebrities with special cats.

Fact No. 10 – Simon the Tuxedo Cat Is a War Hero

During World War II, one tuxedo cat named Simon enormously contributed to the war. He did what cats do best – he protected the food supplies from mice and other pests, which made him an invaluable asset to the Allies. As a result, Simon received the highest honor for Animal Military Gallantry, and his story is fascinating. Read more about Simon here.

Fact No. 11 – A Tuxie Once Ran for Office

Back in 2012, a cat named Tuxedo Stan ran as a candidate for mayor in Halifax, Canada. While Tuxedo Stan wasn’t able to formally run, as he didn’t have a birth certificate, he was able to raise awareness of the feral cat population in the town.

His political party, The Tuxedo Party of Canada, gained international attention (including an endorsement by Ellen DeGeneres). As a result, the town built a new spay and neuter clinic for feral cats.

Fact No. 12 – Tuxies Are Popular With Famous People

Whether it’s because of their dashing look or their superior intelligence, quite a few famous people owned tuxedo cats as pets. Among them are William Shakespeare, Beethoven, Sir Isaac Newton, and even President Bill Clinton. That’s right, tuxies have also made it into the White House!

Fact No. 13 – There Are a Lot of Famous Tuxies

As you can see, tuxedo cats are trendy. While they may not be a breed, they are certainly a phenomenon. Tuxies have stolen the show with their dashing looks, elegant attitude, superior intelligence, and irresistible dog-like personality.

Over the years, these gorgeous kitties have been depicted in many works of artistic fiction. Tuxies have conquered the small screen as well as the big screen. To read about these Tuxies, click here.