American Bobtail

APPEARANCE

The tail is usually short. Bobbed by genetics. And overall the American Bobcat resembles a wild bobcat. The forelegs are longer than their hind legs giving them even more similar appearance to the bobcat.

They come in all patterns and colors and are preferred looking natural and wild.

The look of the tail will vary widely. It can be curved, kinked, straight or be bumpy. There is no standard for the length ranging from 1-4 inches typically. It’s expressive and visible when this cat is alert.

PERSONALITY

They will enjoy time on your lap. This is a very intelligent, interactive, playful and sensitive one. They are very adaptable to most environments and will make a great household addition.

In spite of looking like a wild cat – The American Bobcat has been described as dog like. You may even be greeted at the door by this cat. Being affectionate, devoted and desiring attention they become very bonded to their owner and family. They get along with other cats and dogs with ease.

Play is high on the American Bobtail’s list. Families with children will enjoy this cat. While not being very vocal they do display numerous chirps, clicks and trills when happy.

They are great travelers and are known to travel with their RVers and some long haul truck driver owners. It’s helpful that they are easy to leash train and love to take walks. Also used as therapy animals successfully to help calm people with their intuitive sensitivity.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND

The American Bobtail is a medium to large cat that became known in the US in the 1960s. While no one’s sure how they developed – it’s thought that it was from a mating of a Seal Point Siamese female and a short-tailed tabby male. Later the breed then developed from a Birman, Himalayan, and a Himalayan/Siamese cross.

In the 1980s, the breed was further developed and a new breeding program was started. The efforts of different breeders created the breed to be all colors and categories.

Story goes that a Florida breeder crossed Bobcats with domestics. But there’s doubt here because it would produce sterile kittens. This breed is still developing.

HEALTH

It’s water resistant double coat comes in long haired and short haired in all colors and patterns. Maintenance required is moderate and should be groomed regularly and bathed occasionally. For cats with medium hair once a week is fine. For the long haired, I’d plan for twice a week. This cat breed will shed so you’ll need to vacuum often and they’re not hypoallergenic. Normal tooth and nail care required and do check the ears.

He is slow to mature. It can take 2 – 3 years to reach maturity.

Bobtails are generally healthy but are prone to hip dysplasia. Some are born without tails. These are called rumpies.