American Bobtail Cat

American Bobtail - Breed Profile:

Origin: United States
Colors: Any
Size: Medium to large
Coat Type(s): Shorthair and longhair
Grooming: Weekly (shorthair); twice a week (longhair)
Talkativeness: Average
Activity Level: High
Attention Requirement: Average
Overall: Moderately obedient

Kind, playful, devoted and extremely intelligent cat.

Appearing in the late 1960's, the American Bobtail cat is still considered quite a new breed. It is easily recognized by its stubby tail, which is about a third, to half the length of a normal cat's tail. This is a result of a cat body type genetic mutation which occasionally occur of which some mutations, humans might chose to perpetuate.
The weight of males ranges from 12 to 16 pounds while females are 7 to 11 pounds.

Physical characteristic

The American Bobtail cat is a sturdy medium sized cat with a full and broad chest. It has a noticeable rectangular stance with its hind legs longer than the front legs. The paws are large and round and may have toe tufts. The head is broad and wedge shaped with almond shaped eyes. The head and its characteristics are overall very proportioned. The tail is generally straight but can also be slightly curved and is usually about 2 to 4 inches in length.
This breed can take up to 3 years to mature fully.

Temperament

Bobtail cats are great sociable companions. They are known to be kind, playful, devoted, friendly, energetic and extremely intelligent. They can have dog-like tendencies and are great with children and will generally adapt easily to new environments. Remeber though that this breed is still being "developed", so variations in temperament will occur. Important is to give them opportunities to be playful because they tend to be a quite active breed.

Longhair American Bobtail

Coat and grooming

American Bobtails come with both short or longhaired coats. Their coat is shaggy and can have any colour fur, with a strong emphasis on the "wild" tabby appearance in show animals. Coat needs grooming twice weekly, more often if it has longer hair. Groom your cat more often when it's shedding season to keep her fur healthy.

Health

American Bobtails can grow obese if they do not get enough exercise, so make sure to provide them with exercise since obesity can lead to other health problems. Otherwise they are known to be a strong and healthy breed.