You see them on social media looking like little Victorian gentlemen in tuxedos. Or maybe like tiny, fluffy cows. Maine coon kittens black and white are arguably some of the most striking animals on the planet, but there is a massive amount of misinformation floating around about what they actually are, how much they cost, and why they look the way they do.
Honestly? Most people think "black and white" is just one look. It isn't.
The "Tuxedo" Myth and What You’re Actually Seeing
First off, "Tuxedo" isn't a breed. It's just a pattern. When you’re looking for Maine coon kittens black and white, you’re usually looking for what breeders call a bi-color. This happens because of the white spotting gene (scientifically known as the S allele). This gene is a bit of a chaotic artist; it basically blocks pigment from reaching certain parts of the kitten's body while they are still just a tiny embryo.
If the pigment cells (melanocytes) don't make it all the way down to the chest or paws, you get those iconic white "socks" and "bibs."
But it gets weirder. You can have:
✨ Don't miss: Am I Gay Buzzfeed Quizzes and the Quest for Identity Online
- Van patterns: Mostly white with just a splash of black on the head or tail.
- Harlequins: Random black spots on a white coat.
- Mask and Mantle: It looks like the cat is wearing a dark cape and a little Zoro mask.
Don't let a "designer" name fool you. Whether a breeder calls it a "Magpie" or a "Tuxedo," it's all just variations of that same bi-color genetic lottery.
Do They Actually Act Different?
You’ve probably heard the term "Gentle Giant" a thousand times. It’s a cliché for a reason. Maine Coons are basically dogs in cat suits. They don’t just "meow"—they chirp and trill. If you buy one of these kittens, expect it to follow you into the bathroom. They want to be involved.
There’s this weird urban legend that black and white cats are "spicier" or more "dog-like" than solids. Science says... probably not. According to research on feline temperaments, coat color doesn't dictate personality nearly as much as early socialization does. However, because Maine Coons were historically "working cats" (ratters on ships), they have a high prey drive.
They love water. Seriously. Don't be surprised if your black and white kitten tries to jump in the shower with you or "fishes" in their water bowl.
🔗 Read more: Easy recipes dinner for two: Why you are probably overcomplicating date night
The Price Tag: Why $4,000 is Normal (and $600 is a Red Flag)
Let’s get real about the money. If you find Maine coon kittens black and white for sale on a random classified site for $500, run. You aren't getting a Maine Coon; you’re getting a long-haired domestic mix.
A reputable breeder—someone like Sweet Giants or Mythic Maine Coons—typically charges anywhere from $3,000 to $4,500 for a pet-quality kitten. Why? Because the "maintenance" on the parents is insane.
- DNA Testing: They have to test for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).
- Echocardiograms: Real breeders pay for yearly heart scans for the mom and dad.
- Slow Growth: Maine Coons don't stop growing until they’re 4 or 5 years old.
If you see an "odd-eyed" black and white (one blue eye, one gold), expect the price to jump even higher. Those are the "unicorns" of the Maine Coon world and can easily fetch $5,000+.
Grooming: It’s Not Just "Brushing"
You’re going to need a toolkit. This isn't a "brush him once a week" situation. Their fur is semi-water-repellent and has a thick, wooly undercoat.
💡 You might also like: How is gum made? The sticky truth about what you are actually chewing
The "hot spots" for matting are the armpits, the "britches" (the back of the legs), and behind the ears. If you miss a week, those mats can become painful "pelts" that pull on the skin. You’ll need a high-quality slicker brush and a metal greyhound comb.
Pro tip: Get them used to the blow dryer while they are still kittens. Because their fur is so dense, air-drying can take forever and lead to fungal issues if they stay damp too long.
Health Realities Nobody Mentions
Maine Coons are big. That size comes with a cost. Hip dysplasia is actually fairly common in the breed because they carry so much weight. Keeping your black and white kitten at a lean weight is the best thing you can do for their joints.
Also, watch the gums. This breed is prone to stomatitis (painful gum inflammation). If your kitten’s breath smells like a swamp, it’s not just "cat breath"—it’s a vet visit.
Actionable Steps for Future Owners
- Verify the Pedigree: Before sending a deposit, ask for the TICA or CFA registration of the parents. If they can't show it, it's not a purebred.
- The "Armpit Test": Once you get your kitten, make it a habit to check their "pits" every single night while they're purring on your lap. It takes five seconds to detangle a small knot, but an hour to shave a mat.
- Invest in a "Cat Tree" for Giants: Standard cat furniture will snap under a 20-pound Maine Coon. Look for brands that use solid wood or reinforced PVC.
- Water Management: Buy a heavy ceramic fountain. They will tip over plastic ones. It's not a matter of "if," but "when."
- Join the Community: Look into groups like the Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association (MCBFA). They have lists of vetted breeders who actually care about the health of the lineage rather than just churning out "tuxedo" looks for a quick buck.