Tuxedo cats are nature's version of elegance and sophistication. Indeed, tuxedos are always ready for the ball. So what is a tuxedo cat? Is it a cat breed? Is it just a color pattern? The answer to the second question is no, tuxedo cats are not a cat breed. They just happen to have a very unique coat pattern and coloring. In fact, tuxedo cats are bi-color cats. They are true black and white feline beauties. This answers the third question.

Tuxedo cat pattern

Now, the answer to the first question (what is a tuxedo cat?) is that for a cat to be a tuxedo cat she must have the following characteristics:

1. She must have solid black throughout her entire body (except for a few white patches).
2. The white patches must be on her chin, chest, belly, and paws.
3. She must have more black than white.

Tuxedo cats look as if they're wearing a tuxedo. That's why they are called tuxedo cats.

It is important to note that not all black and white cats are tuxedos. There are some bi-color, black and white cats that are not tuxedos. Some of these cats, for example, may have more white than black, or be half black and half white, or have solid white throughout their bodies and just have a few small patches of black. These kitties are not considered tuxedos.

Do you know a famous tuxedo?

Now that we have established what makes a tuxedo cat, we must celebrate some well-known tuxedo cats.

Tuxedos were immortalized in Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, a poem by T.S. Eliot in which a tribe of black and white cats are the protagonists.

Other famous tuxedos include Silvester the Cat (of Looney Toons fame), Felix the Cat (that wonderful, wonderful cat who became a star of the silent era and beyond), and of course Socks, former President Clinton's cat. Socks joined the list of the many cats who have called the White House their home.

Gift ideas and tuxedo cat names

If you have a tuxedo or know someone who does, you will find a wide selection of gifts that showcase tuxedos including posters, calendars, magnets, and many other cat items.

If you are planning on adopting a cat, you will be glad to know that tuxedos make wonderful and loving companions. If you have already adopted one and are looking for a name that honors your cat's appearance, consider Chess Piece, Domino, Jellicle, and Mime.