American Bobtail
Intelligent, laid-back and easy-going, American Bobtails are unique in look and personality. Their short tails are their most distinctive feature with no two bobtails being the same. These creatures love a bit of company and won’t mind hitting the road with you to see the countryside.
Where I'm From
The history of the American Bobtail is best told in a story. One that involves the unexpected meeting between a brown tabby kitten named Yodi and a young couple by the names of John and Brenda Sanders.
The trio first met when John and Brenda, who were holidaying in Arizona stumbled upon a little short tailed feline they called Yodi.
The couple took the kitten home with them to Iowa, where it mated with their female cat Mishi, who’s believed to have been a seal point Siamese. The resulting litter ended up with Yodi’s short tail.
Family friends Mindy Shultz and Charlotte Bentley recognised potential for the kittens to become a new breed, and managed to produce the first true American bobtails.
The breed was recognised by The International Cat Association as naturally occurring in 1989.
What I Look Like
American Bobtails are medium sized felines. Their bodies are long and substantial, their hind legs slightly longer than their front legs and they proudly sport a distinctive short tail. No two tails are alike, and they’re roughly one to four inches long. Some are straight while others are curved or bumpy.
These cats have almond-shaped eyes and a wild look about them. They come with either a shorthair or medium longhair coat, in any pattern.
How I Act
The American Bobtail is a unique breed of cat. It’s known to enjoy travelling which makes it popular amongst truckies and grey nomads. Evidently, it’s an adaptable animal who will find happiness in a noisy or calm household, it really isn’t fussed.
It’s a highly intelligent breed that quickly picks up tricks and games like fetch. Unlike Balinese cats, American Bobtails are pretty easy going and won’t be too in your face. They enjoy companionship, and have a beautiful affectionate and loving nature. This breed is a suitable pet for all types of people from young families to single professionals.
Looking After Me
There’s a moderate amount of grooming required to keep American Bobtails in top form. Brushing their coats twice weekly will keep them healthy and remove dead hair. A weekly nail trim and ear clean is also recommended.
While most American Bobtails are born healthy, those born without tails are more likely to develop spinal problems.
Am I the pet for you?
Pros:
- Make good travel buddies
- Adaptable and suited to all types of people
- Highly trainable and likes to play games
Cons:
- Moderate grooming required to keep them in shape
- Tailless variation may develop spinal deformities
- Known to be escape artists from confined spaces