American Bobtail
Cat breed
American Bobtails are loving and incredibly intelligent cats possessing a distinctive wild appearance. They are extremely interactive cats that bond with their human family with great devotion.
More about the American Bobtail
The American Bobtail is an uncommon breed of domestic cat which was developed in the late 1960s. It is most notable for its stubby "bobbed" tail about one-third to one-half the length of a normal cat's tail. This is the result of a cat body type genetic mutation affecting the tail development, similar to that of a Manx cat. The breed is not related to other short-tailed breeds, such as the Cymric cat, or the Japanese Bobtail or Kurilian Bobtail, despite the similar name and physical type—the breeding programs are entirely unrelated, and the genetic mutation causing the bobbed tail are known to be different, as the mutation causing the American Bobtail's short tail is dominant; comparatively, the Japanese Bobtail, for example, has a tail mutation that is recessive.
Living with a American Bobtail
A wild-looking cat with a bobbed tail and a big, devoted heart for the people it calls its own.
Personality & fit
American Bobtails are smart, playful, and deeply attached to their families, many follow their favorite person from room to room and genuinely want to be part of whatever's happening. They tend to get along well with kids, dogs, and other pets, making them a good fit for busy, social households.
Exercise & energy
Moderate energy, they enjoy interactive play and puzzle toys but aren't the bouncing-off-walls type. A little playtime each day keeps that sharp mind and body satisfied.
Grooming & coat
Coat care is low-effort, though they do shed some. A weekly brush handles loose fur and keeps things tidy without much fuss.
Training
Their intelligence makes them surprisingly trainable for a cat, many learn tricks, leash walking, or how to fetch. Reward-based methods work best, and they enjoy the mental challenge of learning something new.
Health to watch
Generally a sturdy, healthy breed with few known genetic issues. As with any cat, keep up with regular vet visits, and watch the tail area for any sensitivity since the short-tail trait comes from a bone structure difference.
Good to know
They're highly social and don't love being left alone for long stretches, so they do best with company, human, feline, or canine, for much of the day.
General guidance to help you get to know the breed, not veterinary advice. Always consult your vet for your own pet.
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Personality
At a glance
Traits at a glance
More filled dots = more of that trait (out of 5).
Breed traits from The Cat API · summary from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA). General guidance only, every individual pet is unique.