The American Bobtail is a cat breed recognised by the WCF. It originates from the United States, where development began in the late 60s, inspired by a short-tailed cat named Yodie found in Arizona, along with other domestic cats carrying naturally shortened tails from various regions of the United States and Canada. The breed's distinctive hallmark is a naturally shortened, mobile tail whose length and shape vary between individual cats. The American Bobtail is a medium to large-sized cat with a sturdy build resulting from strong bone structure and well-developed musculature, growing relatively slowly and reaching full adult size only around its third year of life.
The breed originates from the United States. Its development began in the late 60s, when a short-tailed male cat named Yodie, found in Arizona, provided the initial inspiration. Other domestic cats with naturally shortened tails from various regions of the United States and Canada also contributed to the breed's development. Despite an appearance suggesting a wild animal, the American Bobtail is a domestic cat breed and did not result from crossing domestic cats with lynx. The short tail is an inherent trait of the breed. Within a single litter, kittens may be born with varying tail lengths, including individuals with normal-length tails.
Adult females typically weigh approximately 3.2-5 kg, whilst males weigh 5.5-7.3 kg. The body is strong and well-muscled with moderately elongated proportions, featuring a broad chest, prominent shoulder blades and solid limbs that give the cat an athletic appearance. The rear portion of the body is slightly elevated.
The head is wedge-shaped with gentle contours, with visible cheekbones and a strong chin. The eyes are large, almost almond-shaped, with a characteristic alert expression. The ears are broad at the base and slightly rounded at the tips.
The most recognisable feature is the naturally shortened tail. It should be mobile and clearly visible, though its length and shape vary between individual cats.
All colours and patterns are permissible. Solid, tabby, tortoiseshell, silver, smoke, white and colourpoint cats are commonly seen. The coat pattern may emphasise the breed's natural appearance, but the breed is not restricted to any particular colour.
The American Bobtail is typically friendly and devoted to its family members, showing interest in shared activities. It readily builds relationships with the entire household. The breed combines a love of play with an ability to rest quietly and generally displays a moderate level of activity. It is intelligent and may readily learn retrieval, simple tricks and harness walking. Games simulating hunting and tasks requiring food rewards suit it well. It can get along well with children and other animals when interactions are calm and introductions are gradual.
The breed occurs in both short-haired and semi-long-haired varieties. The coat is dense, resilient and slightly plush in texture. Regular brushing or combing helps remove dead hair. During periods of heavier shedding, it is worth increasing the frequency of grooming. Bathing is usually unnecessary if the coat is kept clean and groomed regularly.
The breed is generally described as healthy, though its natural origins do not exclude hereditary conditions or other ailments. Every cat requires regular veterinary check-ups and observation of changes in daily behaviour. Particular attention should be paid to the structure of the rear body. Some individuals may experience problems affecting the spine or hips. Cats completely lacking a tail may have difficulty with urine or faecal control. Any disturbances in movement or urination require veterinary assessment.
| Organisation | Recognised | Breed code | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| WCF | yes | ABS | — |
- Does the American Bobtail descend from crossing with a lynx?
- No. Despite an appearance suggesting a wild animal, the American Bobtail is a domestic cat breed developed from domestic cats. The short tail is an inborn trait.
- Do all kittens in a litter have short tails?
- No. Within a single litter, kittens may be born with varying tail lengths, including individuals with normal, full-length tails.
- How quickly does the American Bobtail grow?
- The breed grows relatively slowly. Cats reach their full adult size only around their third year of life.
- Can health problems be associated with the short tail?
- Some individuals may experience problems affecting the spine or hips. Cats completely lacking a tail may have difficulty with urine or faecal control, so any disturbances require veterinary assessment.
- What is the temperament of the American Bobtail like?
- It is friendly, intelligent and active, but maintains a moderate energy level. It does well in a family with children and other animals when introductions are calm and gradual.