A cat described as a “tuxedo” is not a specific breed but a common and striking coat pattern. This term refers to a bi-color cat that is predominantly black with white markings on the chest, paws, belly, and sometimes the face. The pattern is so named because the arrangement of colors resembles formal black and white attire worn by humans.
Tuxedo: A Coat Pattern, Not a Breed
The vast majority of cats exhibiting the tuxedo pattern are not purebreds but are classified as Domestic Shorthairs or Domestic Longhairs. These terms are used to describe mixed-breed cats whose ancestry is too varied or unknown to be traced to a specific pedigree. The pattern is defined by a solid black coat broken up by white patches, typically covering less than 40% of the cat’s body. These white areas often appear as a neat bib on the chest, white “gloves” on the paws, and sometimes a patch on the face.
The Genetics Behind the Black and White
The appearance of the tuxedo pattern is controlled by the White Spotting gene, often referred to as the S-locus. This gene is responsible for preventing the migration of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells, to certain areas of the skin during embryonic development. If the S-locus gene is only partially expressed, the melanocytes fail to reach the extremities, resulting in the unpigmented white patches characteristic of the tuxedo look. The areas where the melanocytes successfully migrate develop the cat’s base color, which is black.
Cat Breeds That Can Be Tuxedo
While most tuxedo cats are mixed-breed Domestic Shorthairs, the bi-color pattern is accepted within the breed standards of several recognized purebred cats. The only way to confirm a cat is a purebred is through documented pedigree papers from a recognized registry.
The Maine Coon, known for its large size and shaggy coat, can exhibit the tuxedo pattern, though its defining features remain its substantial bone structure and tufted ears. The British Shorthair, recognized by its dense, plush coat and rounded face, can also be a tuxedo. The American Shorthair, a medium-sized cat with a powerful build and short, even coat, frequently displays the bi-color pattern.
Other breeds that allow the tuxedo coloration include the Turkish Angora, a slender, elegant cat with a long, silky coat and a wedge-shaped head. The Manx, a tailless or short-tailed breed originating from the Isle of Man, also accepts the bi-color pattern. Examining the cat’s overall body type, head shape, coat texture, and tail length provides more reliable clues to its breed than the coat color alone.
Common Personality and Traits
Many owners of tuxedo cats report a consistent set of personality traits, though these are anecdotal and not scientifically linked to the coat pattern. These cats are often described as highly intelligent, displaying a quick ability to learn tricks or solve simple puzzles. They are also noted for being particularly vocal, using a wide range of meows, chirps, and trills to communicate with their owners. This playful nature and “dog-like” loyalty are likely due to the common Domestic Shorthair lineage, which makes up the majority of the tuxedo cat population.