American Bobtail Cat

Nothing Wild about the American Bobtail Cat

The American Bobtail cat is anything but wild. With its clear, calm expression and natural intelligence flashing across its eyes, the American Bobtail has grown in popularity during the past several years. Rugged, hardy, and very intelligent, the American Bobtail has inherited the sturdy characteristics of its predecessors while adapting to the pleasures and restraints of domestic life. Is an American Bobtail cat right for you? If you're looking for a highly energetic and expressive pet that loves to play, an American Bobtail may be just what you've been looking for!

History of the American Bobtail Cat

The American Bobtail as a recognizable breed emerged during the 1960s. A brown tabby kitten with a bobtail was identified at an Indian reservation in the American Southwest. A couple adopted him and later went on to breed him with a long tail female. The offspring from this coupling was the basis for the American Bobtail breed. Although the name may indicate otherwise, the American Bobtail is not a "wild" breed. Rather, American Bobtails descend from bobtailed cats that have traditionally been located in the American Southwest.

The American Bobtail cat is one of the newest breeds to be accepted by the Cat Fancier's Associate. The American Bobtail registered as a breed in February of 2000, although it had been widely acknowledged as a unique breed by legitimate breeders for several years. The American Bobtail is also exceptional because, as its name indicates, it is genuinely indigenous to the United States.

Buying and Caring for an American Bobtail Cat

Breeders will generally make American Bobtail kittens available for purchase beginning at least twelve weeks after birth. At this young age, the kittens have developed the physical strength and social skills to interact with other animals, and to adapt to a new environment. If kept indoors, the American Bobtail should be provided with maximum attention and a suitable area for it to play and paw. Scratching posts and play areas are recommended. American Bobtails can be easily leash-trained, and once your cat gets used to it, he or she will demand to go for regular walks!

Physical Attributes of the American Bobtail Cat

The American Bobtail has a number of distinctive physical features. Most breeders and cat enthusiasts are quick to point out the cat's 'wild' features. The American Bobtail cat is certainly strong, sturdy, and athletic-looking, although all strains of wildness have disappeared. The American Bobtail is well known for its well-muscled appearance, its strong, rolling gait, and overall sense of power and intelligence.

The American Bobtail is generally larger sized, with most male cats easily weighing in at more than 15 pounds. American Bobtail cats are slow to grow, with most cats reaching their adult weights at age two or three. Most American Bobtail cats have short, very thick coats, although some cats have longer hair and a more shabby-haired appearance. The American Bobtail's coat is known for its extraordinary resilience and its water-resistant nature. Their coats come in nearly all patterns and colors, although they do not exhibit a 'pointed' design such as that displayed by Eastern breeds like the Siamese. Most American Bobtail cats have very straight, short tails, sometimes displaying slight curves and variations.

The American Bobtail has a broad head with a prominent brow that endows the cat with a distinctive 'hunter's gaze.' Its eyes are almond-shaped, clear, and project a sense of intelligence.

Temperament of the American Bobtail

Despite its somewhat 'wild' appearance, the American Bobtail is completely domesticated and has developed a reputation for being lively, loving, and affectionate. They have been compared to dogs in their loyal nature and in their ability to initiate play. The American Bobtail is highly energetic and fun, with a prowess for hunting and climbing. They have been described as excellent family cats that are capable of living with small children and other pets, even dogs. Above all else, the American Bobtail is widely known in cat fancy circles as an exceptionally intelligent breed. They are also known to be a highly vocal breed. If you would like a cheerful companion who is expressive and talkative, the American Bobtail may be just the right cat for you. Be prepared to play catch and fetch with your American Bobtail, as well.