American bobtail Cat

American bobtail portrait

The American Bobtail cat is a muscular cat with a medium length plush double coat, (also sometimes seen with a long coat) and small tufts on the tips of the ears.

The American bobtail has a unique short tail that is the result of a natural mutation, never docked or altered. The tail is well furred, has lots of character, may be straight or curved or even kinked, and is 4 to 6 inches long. It is said that no two tails are alike!

These beautiful cats have a wild, almost lynx or bobcat look that defines the breed and is most desireable, but despite the widcat appearance they are 100 percent domestic cats and are extremely docile, tractable and good-natured. They are natural clowns known for lots of purring and some unusual chirps and clicking sounds when playing.

This happy and even-tempered cat is one of the best choices for families with kids and is less likely to shy away from the possible rough and enthusiastic contact of young children than other breeds. They have what is often described as a dog-like personality, enjoying play, close interaction, games and even some learning and tricks.

American bobtail cats are intelligent, tractable, amiable and good-humored as well as good-looking.  The breed was formally recognized by cat registries in the late 20th century after decades of selective breeding, but is still a relatively rare breed.


American bobtail
American bobtail stats

bobtail cats

American bobtail cat personality

American bobtail in snow

The personality of the American Bobtail cat is often described as "dog-like". These robust cats tend to love playing fetch, tag, or even hide and seek type games.

They often have favorite toys they will carry around in their mouths. They are adaptable and hardy, ready to roughhouse, or happy to relax

They are occasionally described as being a good "mans cat", and may be a lot less fussy than other breeds. Bobtails like warm companionship and benefit from other cats, dogs or children in the family.

Although not particularly vocal, they have a tendency towards some less typical sounds like chirping or trilling when excited or happy or in greeting.

The American Bobtail cat is recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), the world's largest cat organization, and is one of the more popular pure-bred or "pedigreed" domestic cat breeds. This is a relatively new breed developed in the United States in the 1960's with the cross of a bob-tailed individual with a Siamese cat.

The Siamese heritage is evident in the vocal nature and sense of humor found in todays American Bobtail. The coat may be any color, but tiger and tabby patterns dominate.

These are chunky, medium-sized cats with plush double coats that require moderate grooming. They have few breed-related health issues.

Because it is moderately active and desires interaction this rough and ready cat is a superb family pet that can handle and often revels in the attention of dogs and children. -American Bobtail Cat Facts


american bobtail kittens

American bobtail

American Bobtail kittens are known for their playful personalities, striking appearance, and the strong bonds they develop with the people in their lives. From an early age, these kittens display the curiosity and intelligence that define the breed, and of course their most recognizable feature—the naturally short, “bobbed” tail—is present at birth.

Each kitten’s tail is unique, ranging from slightly curved to kinked or straight, and usually measures about one-third to one-half the length of a typical cat’s tail.

Social interaction is very important for American Bobtail kittens. They tend to form strong attachments to their families and often follow people from room to room. They are rarely shy, and this friendly nature makes them comfortable around children and other pets after careful introduction.

Physically, American Bobtail kittens grow at a slower rate than many other breeds. They may take two to three years to reach full maturity. During kittenhood, their shaggy coat begins to develop the slightly wild look that gives the breed its distinctive appearance.


American bobtail breed standard

grey American bobtail

Head Shape: The head is broad and large with dramatic cheekbones. The muzzle is broad and well defined and must not look delicate or pinched. The chin and jaws are full and pronounced. The eyes are large and almond shaped with heavy brows giving a unique look. The eyes may be any color, including odd-eyed. The ears are large with tufts or "furnishing" quite desirable.

Body and Tail: The cat should be muscular and of medium length with broad, wide shoulders and hips. Slightly longer than tall with prominent shoulder blades. The neck is short and broad. The hind legs are longer than the front with lots of bone and muscle to the legs. Feet are massive and round, often tufted between the toes. The tail should be at least 1 inch long, but 6 inches or so is preferred. About half to a third the length of a normal tail.only shading.

Coat: Short and dense double coat that stands off from the body and can sometimes be described as "scruffy". Not close lying or tight. The breed is seen in a long coat as well, although not as often.
Colors: Any color or pattern is acceptable. Tabby and tiger patterns are most commonly seen and suit the wild type that is desired.
Overall: This should be a wide and muscular cat with back legs longer than front and good bone.  The single most important trait is the wild type - a distinct resemblance to a lynx or bobcat, complete with ear tufts. A distinctly non-wild personality is equally important and this cat is a notoriously pleasant and sporting family-oriented pet.


10 facts about american bobtail cats

Bobtail
    1. Short “bobbed” tail – The breed’s most famous feature is its naturally short tail, usually one-third to one-half the length of a normal cat’s tail.
    2. Natural mutation – The bobbed tail developed from a natural genetic mutation, not from surgical docking
    3. Dog-like personality – Many owners say they behave like dogs, often following people around the house and greeting them at the door.
    4. Highly intelligent – They learn tricks easily, can play fetch, and often enjoy puzzle toys and interactive games.
    5. Travel-friendly – American Bobtails tend to adapt well to new environments, making them popular with travelers and RV owners.
    6. Two coat types – This breed can have short or long fur, both with a shaggy, slightly wild appearance.
    7. Very social – They generally get along well with children, other cats, and even dogs.
    8. Every tail is different – No two American Bobtail tails are exactly alike. They can be straight, curved, kinked, or slightly knotted.
    9. Great problem-solvers – Many American Bobtails quickly learn how to open doors, cabinets, or treat containers.
    10. Very vocal – Instead of constant meowing, they often use chirps, trills, and soft sounds to communicate.

nnnn