If James Bond had a purr...
She is black. She is white. She is stylish. And she wears the best outfit in the cat world: the Tuxedo cat. Her trademark? An elegant “tuxedo”, a self-confident look - and the constant suspicion that she is out and about at night as a secret agent.
The Tuxedo cat is more than just a color combination. She is an appearance. In this article, you'll find out what makes them so special, why they are often responsible for pranks (but never get caught) - and why they even play a role in art and pop culture.
What is a Tuxedo cat anyway?
“Tuxedo” is not a breed name, but describes a color coat. Tuxedo cats (also known as bicolor cats) have a black coat with white markings - usually on the chest, paws and nose. They look as if they are strutting around the living room in a tailor-made suit.
They come in all kinds of breeds and mixes. Their appearance makes them real eye-catchers - especially when they settle down in the middle of your dining table as if they were about to open a business lunch.
And yes: some really do look like they have a moustache. That makes them the undisputed aristocats among the house cats.
The Tuxedo cat in art and culture
Tuxedo cats have style - and they know it. So it's no wonder that they have always served as a muse.
Famous examples? The cartoon character Sylvester (“Sufferin' succotash!”), the clever cat from Looney Tunes, is a classic Tuxedo. Felix the Cat, the cartoon pioneer from the 1920s, also wore black and white like no other.
In modern pop culture, Mr. Mistoffelees from the musical “Cats” has landed a leading role - in a Tuxedo look, of course. And what about your living room wall? A Tuxedo cat in the style of Frida Kahlo or Andy Warhol? Yes, please!
Character with contrast - what makes Tuxedos so special
Tuxedo cats have a reputation for being particularly clever. Studies suggest that they learn faster than their fellow species. Whether this is due to their cool appearance or the fact that they secretly use your keyboard at night is still unclear.
They are considered self-confident, playful, sometimes a little headstrong - but always charming. Many owners report that their Tuxedos like to be the center of attention and have a real show talent.
In short: if you think you have a cat - it's already got you.
Genetics with style
The typical “tuxedo look” is the result of a whim of genetics: the white markings are caused by so-called Piebald genes, which influence pigment patterning.
The exciting thing: No two Tuxedos are the same. Some have a small apron, others a white “tie” or even “gloves”. Each Tuxedo wears its pattern like a unique piece - almost as individual as an abstract painting.
And even if they sometimes look like they're about to appear at a gala, they can of course also snore down to earth on the carpet. But with style, please.
The many faces of the Tuxedo
Tuxedo cats are true quick-change artists. Sometimes they look like distinguished thinkers, sometimes like playful clowns. Their facial expressions - enhanced by the color contrast - make them particularly expressive.
Do you want a cat with character? One that looks like Sherlock Holmes but behaves like a pirate? Voilà, your Tuxedo cat is already waiting for you.
And what's her absolute favorite spot? Of course - right where you want to hang your new posters. She's probably already lying in front of it.
How to bring the Tuxedo vibe into your home
Tuxedo cats not only inspire with their personality, but also with their design. Their look is so iconic that it translates perfectly into stylish wall art.
Whether it's an art print in the style of the golden 20s, a record cover with Tuxedo Cat as a jazz musician or a surrealist painting with black and white contrasts - this cat deserves a place on your wall. Preferably above her favorite spot. And yes, she knows it's about her.
Tuxedo cats - style, charm and a pinch of drama
If there's one cat that embodies the perfect blend of elegance and quirkiness, it's the Tuxedo cat. It's the mysterious protagonist of your home, the uncrowned star of every photo gallery and probably the reason why your cushions are never where you put them.
Whether as a real pet or an iconic motif on your wall, Tuxedo cats bring style to your life. And a bit of chaos. But that's part of it.