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 American Bobtail

American Bobtail

The American Bobtail is a playful, intelligent cat that’s known for their wild appearance and distinctively short, “bobbed” tail. This breed’s friendly, affectionate nature makes it a wonderful companion for families and individuals alike. While they might look a bit rugged, the American Bobtail personality is incredibly loving and they can bond deeply with their humans. 

The need-to-know
  • Playful and curious cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Somehow talkative cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Needs some out-door space
  • Great family cat

Generally healthy breed  

American Bobtails are generally healthy but like all cats with no tail, they can experience spinal issues, polycystic kidney disease, or intestinal issues. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is another possible pathology. 

Also, because of the muscular frame, they can experience joint or hip issues. Remember that maintaining a healthy diet and providing plenty of exercise is key to helping your American Bobtail live a long and happy life. 

American Bobtail Appearance 

The American Bobtail’s most remarkable feature is, of course, their short, bobbed tail. However, no two tails are alike – some can be slightly curved, while others can be straight, but typically they are about one-third to half the length of a regular cat’s tail. Their eyes are large and expressive, which adds to their overall alert and curious appearance. 

American Bobtail Personality 

This cat is full of personality! They love to engage in games, whether it’s chasing after toys or joining in a fun game of fetch (yes, really!). Their intelligence makes them quick learners, and they’re often compared to dogs because of their loyalty and desire to be involved in family activities. 

They also love human companionship and enjoy snuggling up after playtime. They’re especially good with children and tend to be patient with other pets as well, making them perfect for a multi-pet household. And here’s the best thing: they can easily adapt to new environments and tend to handle travel better than most other breeds. 

Vet Rating

Family-friendly: 5/5
Playfulness: 4/5
Intelligence: 4/5
Tendency to Vocalise: 4/5
Likes other pets: 4/5
Grooming needs: 2/5
Shedding: 3/5

The American Bobtail is a relatively new breed, first appearing in the 1960s. It all happened when a short-tailed kitten was found by a vacationing couple in Arizona. They adopted the kitten named Yodie, and allowed him to mate with their female cat. This resulted in a litter of kittens with short tails and sweet temperaments. 

Unlike some other breeds, American Bobtails didn’t result from a specific wild cat ancestry, but instead, their unique short tail is due to a natural genetic mutation. As the breed developed, they gained popularity for their distinctive appearance, coupled with their loving and adaptable nature. 

American Bobtail cats are generally better suited as indoor cats, but they can enjoy supervised outdoor time if you provide a safe and secure environment. This breed is intelligent, playful, and curious, which means they may be inclined to explore if given the chance. However, like with most cats, it’s better to keep them indoor to protect them from potential dangers. 

If you want to give your American Bobtail a taste of the outdoors, consider using a cat-safe enclosure or just walk them on a leash and harness. This way, you minimise the risks and they can enjoy it for short periods of time. 

Since they’re an active and social breed, American Bobtails need mental stimulation and physical activity to keep them happy. Provide puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys and interactive games to keep their minds engaged. It’s also a good idea to have regular play sessions with them and spend as much time together as possible. They appreciate companionship and will thrive on social interaction

As active and muscular cats, American Bobtails need a high-quality protein-rich diet. Consult with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about the best diet for your cat as they can offer personalised advice based on your cat’s specific needs. 

Also make sure to always have fresh water available for them and only offer treats in moderation, in order to avoid excessive weight gain and maintain an ‘ideal body condition’. 

 

Despite their luxurious appearance, American Bobtails are fairly easy to care for as they have a short coat that only needs a weekly brushing. For cats with longer coats, you’ll need to groom them about twice a week in order to help prevent tangles and mats from forming. 

Known for their affectionate, playful, and adaptable personalities, the American Bobtail cats can be very well-suited for family life. These cats are patient and tolerant, making them ideal for families with children. 

If you’re thinking about getting an American Bobtail cat, we encourage you to consider adopting one as there are many out there in need of a loving home. You can look for an American Bobtail for adoption on the Wamiz website

  • No two American Bobtails have the exact same tail, making each cat truly unique! 

  • American Bobtails have an unusual high tolerance for travel, making them excellent companions for people on the go or families that like to travel a lot. 

  • Despite their wild appearance, American Bobtails are often referred to as “golden retrievers in cat suits” because of their friendly and outgoing personalities. 

Are American Bobtail cats hypoallergenic? 

No, American Bobtails are not considered hypoallergenic. Along with loose hairs, they also produce dander, which can cause reactions in people with allergies.  

Are American Bobtail cats rare? 

Yes, this cat breed is considered to be relatively rare as it’s not as common as other breeds like the Maine Coon or Siamese. However, their unique appearance and dog-like personality have made them more popular over time. 

How big do American Bobtail cats get? 

The American Bobtail size is medium to large, with males typically being larger than females. As for the American Bobtail weight, it can range from 3 to 7 kg. 

 

 

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