**Thank you to all the readers who contributed photos for this post**
Tuxedo cats, we’ve all seen them, we all love them, but what are they exactly? Are they a special cat breed? Are they only a type of coloration? Are they rare? Well, we’ve gathered all the essential info about tuxedo cats to answer all of your questions. Here are some very fun facts about the adorable tuxedo cats!
Fact No. 1 – Tuxedo Cats Are Not a Breed
Even though these black and white cats 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 breed of cat.
Moreover, it can occur with other colors than black and white. 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 type of coat. 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 specific 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 color and a second color which is less represented on their bodies. Among the specific traits are the socks (in the second color, which is usually lighter) and the mask – this is the effect created by the color combination on the cat’s face. If you want to find out more about tuxedo cat breeding, go to https://www.tuxedo-cat.co.uk/, which is dedicated entirely to tuxies.
Fact No. 3 – There Are Several Types of Tuxedo Cats
As we’ve mentioned above, the tuxedo gene can take effect in any type of cat. This makes the variation of tuxies absolutely enormous. The best-known type of tuxedo cat is black (dominant) and white, with short silky fur.
But there are so many types of tuxies, in so many colors, and so many breeds. 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 smarter and that’s a fact. These cats develop much quicker than other cats, both physically and mentally. They tend to hit cognitive milestones much earlier as well. These cats are extremely intelligent, 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 a powerful one, which has produced quite a few tuxedo cats over the years. They are certainly not rare, but if you are looking to get a tuxie of your own, you have better chances at finding one in a shelter then you do at a cattery.
Fact No. 6 – There Is Such a Thing as “Tuxitude”
The term “tuxitude” refers to the special attitude that tuxedo cats display. What makes these cats easy to spot out is not only their black and white coats, but also their elegant attitude. However, in spite of their solemn appearance, tuxies are said to have a dog-like personality.
They are actually extremely friendly, playful, outgoing, but also affectionate, which makes them very nice to be around. They create close bonds with their owners and they have a friendly attitude to new people as well.
Fact No. 7 – Tuxedo Cats Might Have Magical Powers
People say that during a vernal or diurnal equinox, their black and white coats make tuxies become virtually invisible. 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 maybe 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 actually depicted as cats.
You may also know that cat decorations were a very popular choice for Egyptian tombs and that there are plenty of cats featured in hieroglyphics . But what you may not be aware of is that over 70% of these cats are tuxedo cats. This shows a clear preference for the Egyptians.
Fact No. 9 – One Particular Tuxie is a Millionaire
Back in 1998, a tuxedo cat named Sparky inherited a huge $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.
Fact No. 10 – Simon the Tuxedo Cat Is a War Hero
During World War II, one tuxedo cat named Simon made a very big contribution 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 of the Allies. Simon received the highest honor for Animal Military Gallantry and his story is absolutely fascinating.
Fact No. 11 – Tuxies Are Popular with Famous People
(Except to the Vet or the Groomers, rats!!)
Whether it’s because of their dashing look or their superior intelligence, it seems that quite a few famous people owned tuxedo cats. Among them are William Shakespeare, Beethoven, Sir Isaac Newton, and even President Bill Clinton. That’s right, tuxies have made it into the White House as well!
Fact No. 12 – There Are a Lot of Famous Tuxies
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. Here are some of the most famous tuxedo cats in animations and film:
Sylvester the Cat – Sylvester and Tweety – Looney Toons
When people think about tuxedo cats, there is one cat that comes to mind much more than any other. Sylvester the Cat is the ultimate representative for tuxies everywhere. He is the typical tuxedo cat with black and white fur and his amusing antics alongside Tweety have made generation after generation fall in love with him.
In terms of tuxie diversity, Sylvester actually has longer fur than most “classic” tuxies display. What you may not know about Sylvester is that the character has no less than three Academy Awards under his paw. Impressive, right?
Tom – Tom and Jerry – Warner Bros. Metro-Goldwin-Mayer, and others
Probably the most famous cat in cartoon history, Tom of “Tom and Jerry” is actually a tuxedo cat. While he does not have the classic black-and-white tuxie cat coloration, Tom is part of the great variety of tuxido kitties.
Millions of children have grown up watching Tom chase Jerry. Known and loved by so many generations of children and adults alike, Tom is one of the most charming characters ever to grace the small screen.
Penelope Pussycat – Pepe Le Pew – Looney Toons
Yet another Looney Toons favorite is Penelope Pussycat, the lovely kitty that has stolen the heart of hopeless romantic Pepe Le Pew. She is portrayed as Pepe’s love interest in one of the most beloved episodes in the series, “Odor-Able”. Even though she does not speak, Penelope is certainly a sight for sore eyes.
The Cat in the Hat – The Cat in the Hat – Dr. Seuss
One of the most famous children’s book of all time, Dr. Seuss’ “The Cat in the Hat”, tells the story of two children who have their world turned upside down by a talking cat. There were several cartoon series based on the book, including a recent one where The Cat is voiced by Martin Short, as well as a film starring Mike Meyers as The Cat.
Figaro – Pinocchio – Disney
Another adorable animated tuxedo cat is Figaro from Disney’s “Pinocchio” (1940). He is Geppetto’s cat that becomes Pinocchio’s companion. Figaro was Walt Disney’s favorite character in the film, and it seems that he liked it so much that he requested Figaro to be featured as much as possible in the film. Over the years, his decision has made so many children extremely happy as the adorable kitty steals the show.
As you can see, tuxedo cats are extremely popular. While they may not be a breed, they are certainly a phenomenon. Tuxies have stolen the show with their dashing looks, their elegant attitude, their superior intelligence, and their irresistible dog-like personality.
What do you think about tuxedo cats? Are they your favorite? Tell us all about it in the comments section below.
ABSOLUTELY SUPER PAWESOME & FABULOUS post, Jenny honey! What a AMAZING & FASCINATING topic! I have never had a tuxedo cat but now I want one…lol! LURVED all the facts and the playfulness of the addition of the famous cartoon tuxies! Tuxitude…LURVE THAT, TOO! TYSVM for such a delightful and educational read! I truly enjoyed this post today sooooo very much! 🙂 <3
Big hugs & lots of love & purrs!
Patti & Miss Pink Sugarbelle 🙂 <3 <3 <3
Tuxedo cats are the best. I lost my black and white tux in January and I am lost without him. He was so special, he sensed when I was upset and comforted me when my mom was dying. He was a crazy boy and loved as intensely as he was crazy. I also have a gray tux and a blind orange tabby tux who is smart as a whip.