Are Tuxedo Cats Smarter Than Other Coat Patterns? Intelligence Facts & FAQ

You may have heard a rumor that tuxedo cats are smarter than those with other coat patterns. Although many cat-loving people have lived with smart tuxedo cats over the years, there’s no scientific evidence to support the idea that the coat pattern relates to intelligence in cats. Measuring a feline’s intelligence can be a bit tricky since cats are often less than motivated to participate in scientific experiments, and no one has determined what to look for to begin with.

However, researchers rely on characteristics such as trainability and problem-solving abilities to identify super-smart cats. While coat patterns probably don’t have much influence on feline intelligence, there may well be a link between a cat’s breed and intelligence.

Are Tuxedo Cats a Breed?

No. Tuxedo is a distinctive bi-color coat pattern. They always have two colors, and one of those colors is white. But they’re often thought of as having black and white fur. Most have dark fur on their back and sides and white underbellies. Tuxedo cats are technically piebald felines, meaning they have a genetic mutation that causes them not to produce enough pigment to create uniformly colored fur.

In cats with this genetic mutation, pigment cells migrate less efficiently and can’t reach all areas of a fetal kitten’s body before the stage of development ends, during which coat patterns are laid down and finalized.

But I’ve Heard There Are Purebred Tuxedo Cats!

Purebred cats can have tuxedo coats, and there are several breeds with the pattern, including American Curls, British Shorthairs, Cornish Rexes, Devon Rexes, Maine Coons, and Norwegian Forest cats.

To add even more complexity to the equation, tuxedo cats can have long, medium, or short fur! But there are some breeds where the coat pattern can’t be found, including Bengal cats and those with specific coat colors, such as Russian Blues. The pattern is also relatively common among domestic shorthair cats or moggies.

Which Breeds Are the Smartest?

Cats are usually identified as intelligent because they’re active, good at problem-solving, and enjoy engaging with people. Bengal, Abyssinian, and Burmese cats are considered very intelligent, but tuxedo-patterned coats aren’t found among these breeds. Devon Rexes are generally thought of as quite intelligent, and they can have tuxedo coats!

Why Smart Tuxedo Cat Get Into Everything

While living with a smart cat may seem like lots of fun to outsiders, sharing space with a preternaturally smart critter with enhanced physical and sensory powers can be a bit of an adventure. Smart cats are notorious for getting into trouble if they don’t have enough activities to keep them entertained and busy. Many can open doors, get into cabinets, and find ways into drawers. However, they can also learn to play fetch, perform tricks, and even walk on leashes. Keep reading for a few suggestions for ways to keep smart cats happy.

Invest in Several Toys

Smart cats need several toys to keep them mentally engaged. Catnip-stuffed toys encourage physical activity and are great for motivating cats to chase, spring, and pounce. They’re ideal for self-motivated play and provide smart, active cats with appropriate ways to channel their energy. Smart cats also enjoy playing with interactive toys that challenge their minds.

Get Serious With Environmental Enrichment

Smart cats often spend less time getting into “trouble” when their basic environmental needs are met. Installing high perches and providing scratching posts can prevent your cat from deciding to take things into their own hands. Calming cat music, enrichment videos, and window perches can help keep cats entertained and content.

Spend Time With Your Cat

Incredibly intelligent cats enjoy interacting with people. Playing with your buddy for a few short sessions every day is a fun way to bond with your pet, and it’s also great for your pet’s mental and physical well-being. Many smart cats can learn to walk on a leash and enjoy exploring the outdoors with their owners. Training your cat to perform tricks is another way to combine bonding time and activities targeted to engage your buddy’s brain.

What About Sex? Are Tuxedo Cats Mostly Male or Female?

Tuxedo cats are just as likely to be male as female. While some coat colors and patterns are primarily associated with one sex or the other, the tuxedo pattern isn’t one of them!

Are There Health Conditions Associated With the Coat Pattern?

Since tuxedo cats aren’t a breed, there aren’t any genetic conditions they’re universally at risk for. Purebred cats with tuxedo coat patterns can still suffer from all the genetic diseases common to their breed.

Conclusion

Tuxedo cats aren’t more or less intelligent than kitties with other coat patterns, but no one is sure how to measure feline smarts! Breeds that are ease interacting with people, and those with high-level problem-solving skills, such as Bengals and Siamese are considered intelligent. Cornish Rex cats are incredibly intelligent and can even be found with tuxedo-patterned coats. Tuxedo cats can be male and female, and the coat pattern isn’t influenced by sex. Also, tuxedo cats aren’t more or less likely to have health conditions than pets of similar backgrounds.

Featured Image Credit: bookwurmee, Pixabay