American Bobtail
Natural Breed / Mutation Breed; Recognized by CFA, TICA · Developed in North America as a natural mutation, adapted to varied North American climates through natural selection.
Also known as: Bobtail, American Bobcat Cat
Breed Group
Natural Breed / Mutation Breed; Recognized by CFA, TICA
Size & Weight
Medium to large; males typically weigh 10-16 pounds, females weigh 7-11 pounds. Sturdy and well-muscled.
Lifespan
Typically lives between 11 to 15 years, maintaining an active and playful demeanor well into their senior years.
Activity Level
High energy and active; requires regular interactive play, climbing opportunities, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Description
The American Bobtail is a remarkably sturdy and intelligent cat known for its wild appearance, affectionate personality, and characteristic bobbed tail. With dog-like loyalty and an adaptable nature, they make exceptional family companions.
Key Features
Distinctive shortened tail, robust rectangular body, slightly longer hind legs, and a wild, bobcat-like appearance coupled with a sweet temperament.
Physical Description
Substantial, athletic build with a rectangular body, broad chest, and powerful hindquarters that are slightly higher than the shoulders. Features a distinctively shortened, bobbed tail.
Coat & Coloration
Comes in both short-haired and long-haired varieties with a resilient, dense double coat. Solid black is common, displaying a rich, dense coloration without rust tones.
Coat Care
Moderate grooming needs; weekly brushing for shorthairs and several times a week for longhairs to prevent mats, with increased attention during seasonal shedding periods.
Eye Characteristics
Large, almond to oval-shaped eyes set slightly deep with an intelligent and alert expression, typically gold, green, or copper in black-coated variants.
Ear Characteristics
Medium-sized ears set wide apart on the head, broad at the base with rounded tips, often featuring lynx-like tipping.
Personality & Temperament
Highly intelligent, playful, adaptable, and affectionate. Often described as having dog-like qualities, enjoying games of fetch and leash walks.
Compatibility
Extremely family-friendly, gets along exceptionally well with children, cat-friendly dogs, and other household pets.
Diet & Nutrition
High-protein, premium quality commercial or balanced raw diet tailored to maintain lean muscle mass and prevent feline obesity.
Health Considerations
Generally robust and healthy due to natural breed origins, though monitored for spinal issues related to the tail mutation and standard feline preventative care.
Life Stages
Slow-maturing breed, taking up to 3 years to reach full physical and emotional maturity from an energetic, curious kitten phase.
Care Recommendations
Provide vertical space such as tall cat trees, interactive puzzle toys, secure indoor environments, and regular veterinary check-ups.
History & Origin
Originating in the United States in the late 1960s, the breed began with a short-tailed brown tabby stray named Yodie mated with a seal point Siamese, establishing the distinct bobtail trait.
Interesting Facts
Despite their wild appearance reminiscent of a North American bobcat, the American Bobtail's short tail is the result of a spontaneous natural genetic mutation entirely unrelated to wild bobcats.
Similar Breeds
Japanese Bobtail, Manx, and Pixie-bob. Distinguished by a more robust body type and unique genetic lineage compared to the tailless Manx or oriental Japanese Bobtail.
Photography Tips
Capture them at eye level to highlight their alert expression and sturdy build. Ensure good lighting to show off the texture and deep sheen of a solid black coat.