1. Fascinating Facts about Tuxedo Cats
a. Tuxedo Cats are not a specific breed
Tuxedo Cats are not a specific breed, but rather a term used to describe their unique coat color pattern. The name “Tuxedo” comes from the United States because the coat of these cats resembles a tuxedo suit. In other countries, they are known as bicolor cats. Bicolor cats have different variants, and the tuxedo pattern is one of them.
b. Variation: Milk Cow Tuxedo Cats
Tuxedo Cats are normally known for their black coat with white patches. However, there is a variation called “Milk Cow” where the majority of the coat is white, with random black patches. This gives them a striking resemblance to a regular milk cow.
c. Equal number of male and female Tuxedo Cats
Contrary to popular belief, Tuxedo Cats are not exclusively male. Tuxedo Cats have an equal balance between males and females.
d. Rapid development and intelligence
Tuxedo Cats are known to mature faster than other cats. This rapid development helps them in the wild, especially if they get lost. One reason why Tuxedo Cats may mature faster is because they are generally more intelligent. They learn quickly and understand their owner’s intentions faster. They also know how to attract attention and seek rewards.
e. Very affectionate
Tuxedo Cats have an adorable personality and are one of the most affectionate cats. They love to sit on your lap and curl up on your chest while you sleep. Their meow is slightly louder, especially when they are still kittens and you can sometimes hear it from the next room.
f. Always loyal
One of the distinctive characteristics of Tuxedo Cats is their loyalty. In the book “100 Cats that Changed Civilization: The Most Influential Cats in History,” the author introduces a Tuxedo Cat named Trixy. When Trixy’s owner was imprisoned in 1601, this loyal cat stayed by his side until he was released. It remains a mystery how Trixy made the journey from their home to the Tower of London. But it is another testament to cats’ loyalty, rivaling that of dogs.
g. Each Cat is Unique
No two Tuxedo Cats are exactly alike. Just like human fingerprints or a cat’s nose print, no two Tuxedo Cat coats are the same. This means that your cat is truly one of a kind. There will always be a small difference in the ratio of black and white, and these patches can also have different shapes from one cat to another.
h. Worshipped by the Ancient Egyptians
Did you know that the ancient Egyptians revered cats? Their devotion was so great that when a cat in the house passed away, the owners would shave off their eyebrows to express sorrow. And up to 70% of the cats found in artwork in the pyramids and other sources were Tuxedo Cats. They became the most popularly depicted cat in ancient times. This fact proves that the Egyptians really loved Tuxedo Cats.
i. Ran for Mayor in Canada
In 2012, breaking stereotypes about the species, a Tuxedo Cat named Tuxedo Stan gained fame when he ran for Mayor in Halifax, Canada. Although he didn’t win the race, he raised awareness about the issue of stray cats in the area (Tuxedo Stan himself was a former stray cat). His Facebook page attracted 2,300 followers in just a few months. All the proceeds from selling bow ties and lapel pins went towards low-income families paying for their pet’s care and upkeep. Unfortunately, Tuxedo Stan passed away in 2013 due to cancer.
j. Served as the Chief Mouser in the UK
In London, there is an official Tuxedo Cat named Palmerston who holds the position of Chief Mouser for the UK government’s Foreign & Commonwealth Office. He has held his position since 2016 with the mission of catching any mice that enter the office. Additionally, Palmerston is known for his ongoing feud with Larry, the fat cat.
k. Once lived in the White House
A Tuxedo Cat named Socks once lived in the White House during President Bill Clinton’s tenure. Chelsea Clinton, the daughter of the former president, took care of Socks for many years. The Clinton family actually adopted this stray cat before Bill Clinton’s election in 1992. Socks then moved to the White House and became the mascot for the White House’s new website during the Clinton administration.
l. Received the Medal for Military Service
A Tuxedo Cat named Simon became the only cat to receive the Medal for Military Service for his service in World War II. Simon’s important job was to protect the UK’s food supply from mice and other harmful species that could contaminate it. As his medal proves, he performed his duty excellently. The brave Able Seaman unfortunately died from wounds sustained in an attack.
2. Top Tuxedo Cat Breeds
a. Maine Coon Cats
The Maine Coon is one of the largest cat breeds and is known for its gentle nature. Combined with its unique and beautiful appearance and glossy fur, it is one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide. Maine Coons come in various colors and patterns, including black and white (tuxedo). They are generally good-natured and get along with all family members, including children and other pet dogs. They are loyal and affectionate.
b. Cornish Rex Cats
A tuxedo Cornish Rex Cat stands out with its curly fur, large ears, and slim physique. It is sometimes called the greyhound of the cat kingdom. Active and sociable, this breed thrives on companionship. Cornish Rex cats are intelligent and can be trained to perform various impressive tricks.
c. Manx Cats
Like Cornish Rex cats, Manx cats resemble dogs to some extent. They are often cheerful, sociable, and even temperamental, full of energy. Manx cats are also highly intelligent and trainable. They often have a stubby tail or, in some cases, no tail at all. They come in various colors, including black and white. This short-haired breed tends to shed a lot more fur. With a shorter, rounder back, they may have more spine-related issues.
d. Munchkin Tuxedo Cats
Munchkin cats come in a wide range of colors, including black and white (tuxedo). These adorable little cats are known for their warm and friendly hearts and outgoing nature. Due to their short legs, Munchkins may require extra help with grooming hard-to-reach spots. It is advised to research any health concerns specific to Munchkin cats before owning one.
e. Oriental Shorthair Cats
Often mistaken for Siamese cats, Oriental Shorthair cats are a distinct breed. Unlike Siamese cats, these cats have green eyes and come in various patterns and colors, including Tuxedo coats. These cats are usually curious, less vocal, and sometimes even temperamental. While no cat is truly hypoallergenic, this breed is known to produce less Fel D1 protein. They have short, thin coats and prefer a warm, draft-free home.
f. Persian Tuxedo Cats
Persian cats are easily recognizable by their long, thick coats, vibrant eyes, and flat faces. Persian cats are known for their calm, easygoing personalities. However, their long, dense fur requires daily grooming. They are prone to tangling and matting if not regularly groomed. Persian cats come in a variety of colors, including white, black, cream, silver, tabby, and tuxedo.
g. Scottish Fold Cats
Scottish Fold cats are loved for their adorable appearance. They are known for their cuddly and friendly nature, making them ideal companions. Scottish Folds have a higher risk of developing joint degeneration due to the cartilage and bone development. They are also known for their distinctive folded ears. These cats have short to medium-length hair, and their coat can come in various colors, including tuxedo.
h. Siberian Cats
Siberian cats have long, thick coats that are highly resistant to the cold. They need this fur to survive in the dense forests and icy regions near the Arctic Circle in Russia. This breed is becoming increasingly popular in the United States due to their friendly nature, vivacious personality, and stunning appearance. Siberian cats are active, intelligent, and require exercise to prevent boredom. Their fur sheds in cycles every 6 months.
Conclusion
Similar to calico and tortoiseshell cats, Tuxedo Cats are not a specific breed but a color pattern. They stand out with their unique black and white coat, making them one of the most sought-after coat colors. Consequently, Tuxedo Cats can be quite expensive. The price of a Tuxedo Cat will depend on its specific breed. For example, an American Shorthair Tuxedo Cat can range from $500 to $1,000, while a Persian Tuxedo Cat can cost between $1,000 to $2,000.