In April of last year I lost something very precious to me; my tuxedo cat, Julie. Julie was only five years old, and died of congenital heart failure. Tuxedos are very special, as anyone who has ever loved one knows. For those of you who are wondering what’s so special about tuxedos (TC’s), I offer the following from personal experience and research on various websites. One website in particular, researched and verified by Dr. Magrathea Wallace, clearly explains why TC’s are God’s gift to cat lovers. I submit this with heart on sleeve and tongue in cheek. At the bottom I have submitted a web address to show visual proof. Enjoy!!
1. The Superior Intelligence of Tuxedo Cats
Tuxedo cats are significantly more intelligent than regular cats. Research indicates that this difference may be as great as 200%.
2. Environment of the Tuxedo Cat
Dogs are afraid of TCs.
House plants where TCs reside are healthier and generally 20-50% larger than plants in non-TC households.
3. Tuxedos and the Arts
In recognition of their formal attire, TCs are the only felines admitted to performances of the metropolitan opera.
William Shakespeare, Beethoven and Sir Isaac Newton owned tuxedo cats.
In the “Lassie” series, Lassie was originally a tuxedo cat. The role was re-cast as a Collie after no TC willing to accept the role could be found. They all refused the role as ‘undignified’ and ‘demeaning.’
4. Tuxedo Cat Popularity
“Tuxedo Cat” is the most Googled term on the Internet after “Paris Hilton” and “Free P.M.”
5. Tuxedo Cats in History
Over 70% of all the cats pictured in Egyptian royal tombs are tuxedos.
The first cat in the new world was a Tuxedo named Asgerd who accompanied the early Viking expeditions to North America.
A TC named Buster flew 17 combat missions over Europe with the US Eighth Air Force during WW II. He was shot down in January 1944 and spent the remainder of the war in a German Prisoner of War camp, where he was credited with improving the standard of living through his diligent rodent control efforts.
6. Richest Cat in the World
The largest inheritance (over $6.3 million) was left to a tuxedo named Sparky in 1998.
7. Tuxedo Cat Olympic Medalist
A TC earned an Olympic Silver Medal in the 1960 winter Olympics as a member of the Swiss three-men-and-a-cat bobsled team.
8. Tuxedo Cats in Exploration
A TC named Roderick is the only feline ever to climb Mt. Everest.
9. Tuxedos are the Best Swimmers
Tuxedos are the best swimmers in the feline family, but they have been known to cause serious injury to anyone who puts them in water. (This one I KNOW for a fact!)
10. Other Amazing Facts about Tuxedo Cats
Tuxedos can, in an emergency, drive a car.
When a full moon occurs on the vernal or diurnal equinox, TCs can become invisible.
As kittens, tuxies will open their eyes 24 hours before cats of other breeds
Tuxedo cats can add single digit numbers and perform simple integrations.
I hope you enjoyed these interesting and unusual facts about these extremely beautiful cats we call “Tuxedos.” If you haven’t already figured it out, you will be able to see Dr. Magrathea’s photo in a brand new Tuxedo Cats Picture Gallery. Check it out!
***
Down Allie’s Alley
Longing for the pitter-patter of little feet? Adopt a dog or cat from Abandoned Pet Rescue today. We guarantee twice the number of feet for your money.
***
With high hopes and anticipation that all who read our postings will contribute to this endeavor, I have set up an email account just for this purpose. Please email me at allie4katz@gmail.com and share your puppy love, kitty shenanigans, new beginnings and happy endings. Allie
