The Tuxedo Maine Coon is one of the most attractive variations of the Maine Coon breed.
Known for their striking bicolor pattern, which is usually a bold black-gray-white combination, these cats have the big size and temperament of the Maine Coon and a coat that mimics a tuxedo.
This blog will consider why the tuxedo-patterned Maine Coon is distinct from the average Maine Coon, and separates fact from myth, while giving evidence-based information about their appearance, behavior, and perceptions.
What is a Tuxedo Maine Coon?
A tuxedo pattern is a bicolor coat that features a mostly black body, white markings on the chest and paws, and sometimes the white markings can extend to the face.
A Maine Coon can have many colors and patterns, and the tuxedo variety is easily the most recognized.
Tuxedo Maine Coons are not a new breed or subspecies; instead, tuxedo patterns are produced by defined genetic pathways, particularly pathways linked to a gene called KIT, which affects the distribution of white spotting on the cat’s coat.
The Genetics of Tuxedo Cats
The tuxedo pattern is the result of the genes that produce black coats for color, and the white spotting gene, specifically the KIT gene, would be responsible for where and how much white the cat will have.
As far as scientific studies or evidence exist, there is no “personality” or “health” associated with either genes that make up the tuxedo pattern.
Scientific studies have shown that personality traits of cats are not linked to coat color or pattern, but come from their history, genetic background, and socialization at a very young age.
Are Tuxedo Maine Coons Rare?
Tuxedo Maine Coons are not rare. The tuxedo pattern is one of the most common coat patterns found among Maine Coons.
Maine Coons can be a range of colors and some colors like silver, smoke, and chinchilla are less common because they are more difficult to breed in a way that survives but tuxedo is a very popular pattern.
This prevalence makes them accessible to both breeders and pet owners interested in this striking appearance.
How Much Does a Tuxedo Maine Coon Cost?
The price of a Tuxedo Maine Coon is influenced by, amongst other things, age, pedigree, the reputation of the breeder, and whether you are adopting or buying.
Below is a breakdown by life stage and acquisition method:
| Category | Price Range | Notes |
| Kitten (Breeder) | $800 – $2,300 | Price depends on pedigree, breeder reputation, and whether the kitten is show-quality. |
| Adult (Breeder) | $600 – $1,200 | Adults are less expensive than kittens; price may reflect age, health, and lineage. |
| Senior (Retired Breeder) | $500 – $2,750 | Retired breeding cats or older adults; often come spayed/neutered and health-checked. |
| Shelter/Rescue (Any Age) | $110 – $225 | Adoption fees typically include basic veterinary care; availability may be limited. |
| Free/Rehomed | Rare | Occasionally available through personal networks; still expect to pay for vet care. |
Key Considerations:
- Show kittens or kittens from championship bloodlines can cost a premium, easily over $2,300.
- Adoption can be the cheaper option but tuxedo Maine Coons likely won’t be readily available in shelters or rescues.
- The costs stated above do not include initial set-up costs, including supplies and vet care, which can greatly add to your total cost, likely close to several hundred dollars.
Do Tuxedo Maine Coons Come Only in Black and White?
No, tuxedo Maine Coons are not just black and white.
Although most Maine Coons are black with white accents, there are other color variations such as blue (gray) and white, red (orange) and white, and cream and white.
Maine Coons’ tuxedo patterns are always the bicolor or piebald variety with white accents generally on the paw, chest, and sometimes face giving it the appearance of a tuxedo.
Blue tuxedo Maine Coons are rarer compared to black tuxedo due to genetics but some do exist in the breed!
Cultural Significance and Perception
Tuxedo cats, regardless of breed, including Maine Coons, have historically had positive symbolism going back to various cultures.
They are often seen as lucky, clever, or other positive associations, and this may be partly due to their unique look, as well as their frequent place in youth culture and myth.
The tuxedo Maine Coon’s size and memorable facial markings also make them stand out, and attract owners and breeders.
Behavior and Temperament
Regardless of their coat type, they are largely seen as gentle, affectionate, and intelligent cats overall. Tuxedo Maine Coons would display similar attitudes towards their owners.
There is a common belief that tuxedo cats are more fun or mischief makers, but there are no scientific studies supporting a connection between coat type and personality.
There are many owner narratives quoting that their tuxedo Maine Coons are playful, loyal, and sometimes demonstrate a “dog-like” mannerism, but these behaviors are typical of the breed in totality.
Should I adopt or buy a tuxedo Maine Coon?
This decision is as personal as the bond you’ll form with your cat.
However, buying a tuxedo Maine Coon may be a better option than adopting one from a shelter or rescue, but in most cases, adopting a tuxedo Maine Coon will cost less and helps to find a home for a cat in need.
Adoption fees usually cover the initial vet checkup, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering. It may take some time and work to find the right breed and specific tuxedo pattern.
The Final Review
The Tuxedo Maine Coon is a unique and popular variant of the Maine Coon breed characterized by impressive size, a conspicuous color pattern, and gentle temperament that is synonymous with the breed.
There are many longstanding myths about the link between coat color and personality, but the science points to genetic disposition and environmental influences as determinants in cat behavior.
If you are considering the adoption of a tuxedo Maine Coon, focus on responsible acquisition from reputable breeders or rescue groups, obtain regular veterinary care, and have ample opportunities for exploration.
References:
- https://phys.org/news/2024-05-genetic-mutation-responsible-coat-pattern.html
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9024431/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1558787816300284
