American Bobtail Cat: The Gentle Giant You Never Knew You Needed

My American Bobtail cat fascinates me more than any other breed I’ve owned. People call them the "golden retrievers of the feline world" for good reason – these gentle giants stole my heart with their loving nature and that distinctive bobbed tail.

What amazes me most about my Bobtail is how smart and adaptable he is. My big boy weighs around 12 pounds (they typically range from 7-16 pounds) and stretches nearly 30 inches when he’s fully lounging. These cats fit perfectly into almost any living situation. My friend actually takes his Bobtail sailing, and the cat loves it! I’ve noticed my own Bobtail picks up on my emotions instantly – he cuddles whenever I feel sad, making these cats fantastic therapy companions.

Feature	Specification
Weight	7-16 pounds
Length	Up to 30 inches
Lifespan	13-15 years
Tail Length	1-4 inches

Let me walk you through everything you should know about American Bobtail cats – from their cute stubby tails to their playful personalities. I’ll share all my tips on keeping these special cats healthy throughout their 13-15 year lifespan, based on my experience raising these wonderful companions.

Meet the American Bobtail: Origins and Appearance

I love telling people about how the American Bobtail came to be – it’s quite the happy accident! These special cats developed naturally at first, with feral domestic cats passing down that bobbed tail through generations. The real breeding story kicked off in the late 1960s when a vacationing couple, John and Brenda Sanders, spotted a brown tabby kitten with an unusually short tail while traveling through Arizona.

The fascinating history of the breed

This little brown tabby, named Yodie, went home with the Sanders to Iowa where he mated with their non-pedigreed color point cat. My favorite part of this story is how the resulting kittens all inherited that cute bobbed tail! Cat lovers quickly noticed something special was happening. Unlike other designer breeds, American Bobtail breeders stuck to using unregistered domestic cats with natural bobtails rather than mixing in pedigreed breeds.

Many people ask me if my Bobtail is part wild cat. I have to laugh – despite those persistent rumors about bobcat-domestic cat crossbreeding, genetic testing has completely disproven this myth. My cats are 100% domestic! The breed gained official recognition from The International Cat Association in 1989, later followed by other major registries including the Cat Fanciers’ Association.

Physical characteristics and distinctive features

My American Bobtail stands out in any crowd with his athletic, muscular body and wild appearance. When friends visit, they always comment on his impressive physique – he’s solidly built with that distinctive rectangular stance. His body is moderately long with a broad chest and deep flanks that give him a powerful look.

The head shape is something I particularly love – a broad modified wedge without flat planes. My boy has those signature large, almost almond-shaped eyes beneath a pronounced brow that creates what breeders call a "natural hunting gaze." This look reminds me of a focused wild cat, though his personality couldn’t be gentler!

Feature	Description
Size	Medium to large (7-16 pounds)
Body Type	Athletic, muscular, rectangular stance
Head	Broad wedge without flat planes
Eyes	Large, almost almond shaped
Coat	Both shorthair and longhair varieties
Maturation	Requires 2-3 years to fully develop

My cats come in different colors and patterns, though that classic "bobcat-like" spotted tabby pattern tends to be what most people picture when thinking of the breed.

The unique bobtail: genetics and variations

The trademark short tail that gives my cats their name comes from a dominant gene mutation affecting tail development. This happened naturally in domestic cat populations and might be related to the same gene that creates the Manx cat’s taillessness.

Scientists have actually studied this mutation closely. One study discovered that about 60% of short-tailed American Bobtails tested had a specific genetic variation (technically called heterozygous for a c.998delT allele). Another cat carried a different mutation (c.1199delC), while interestingly, 35% of the bobtailed cats showed no identifiable mutations in the genes they tested.

My two Bobtails have completely different tails – one has a straight 3-inch stub, while the other has a slightly curved 2-inch tail with a small kink at the end. That’s typical of the breed; tails range from 1-4 inches and can be straight, curved, kinked, or bumpy. The only requirement is that the tail must be visible above the back when my cats are alert and attentive.

American Bobtail Personality: More Than Just Looks

My American Bobtails constantly remind me that their beautiful appearance is just the wrapping for their amazing personalities. I’ve found these cats combine that wild, rugged look with the sweetest, most loving temperament you could ask for. This perfect balance makes them fit into almost any family.

The ‘golden retriever of cats’: social and affectionate nature

The nickname "golden retrievers of the feline world" fits my Bobtails perfectly! They’re incredibly affectionate and gentle. What I love most is how they bond with our entire family – not just me as their primary caretaker.

My male Bobtail amazes guests with his emotional intelligence. When my daughter cries, he’s immediately by her side, offering comforting purrs and snuggles. This natural sensitivity is why these cats make such excellent therapy companions for people with PTSD, anxiety, and in special needs classrooms.

Unlike my previous Persian who was happy alone for hours, my Bobtails get visibly sad when left by themselves too long. They chat with me constantly through adorable trills, chirps, and clicking sounds when they’re excited or curious about something.

Intelligence and trainability

My Bobtails are probably the smartest cats I’ve ever owned. Teaching them tricks is surprisingly easy compared to other breeds. My female Bobtail:

• Walks perfectly on a leash around our neighborhood
• Brings back toy mice when I throw them
• Figured out a complicated treat puzzle in minutes
• Once pushed open a closed bedroom door by jumping and hanging on the handle

I learned quickly that my Bobtails need mental challenges. When we first brought them home and hadn’t provided enough stimulation, they started knocking items off shelves deliberately to entertain themselves.

How they interact with children and other pets

Family gatherings show just how patient my Bobtails are. My young nieces and nephews can pet them endlessly, and the cats just soak up the attention. Even my toddler nephew’s clumsy handling doesn’t faze them – they just purr louder.

My Bobtails get along with our other pets remarkably well:

Pet Type	Compatibility Level
Other cats	Excellent
Dogs	Very good
Large pets	Good
Small prey animals	Not recommended

I learned this compatibility has limits, though. My Bobtail’s hunting instincts made having a pet hamster impossible – the cat was obsessed with the cage.

The combination of their social personalities, impressive intelligence, and adaptability makes my American Bobtails perfect family companions. They bring so much joy and affection to our home every single day.

Living with an American Bobtail Cat

Living with my American Bobtail feels like having the perfect blend of dog loyalty and cat independence. These charming felines fit right into almost any home setting, as long as you meet their specific needs.

Space requirements and adaptability

My Bobtails have adapted remarkably well to different living spaces. Whether you have a sprawling country home or a tiny city apartment, these versatile cats will make themselves comfortable. A friend of mine drives long-haul trucks, and his Bobtail happily travels alongside him across the country – they’re that adaptable to mobile living situations.

Though they don’t need huge spaces, my Bobtails definitely appreciate having:

• Cat trees for climbing (I’ve watched mine jump nearly 6 feet up!)
• Scratching posts to maintain their claws
• Vertical play gyms for exercise
• Window perches for bird watching

Their flexibility makes them perfect pets for almost anyone. When I moved from a house to an apartment, my Bobtails adjusted within days – they just need enough room to play and explore but can adapt to what’s available.

Daily care and attention needs

My Bobtails absolutely need human connection. The first time I left them alone for a full weekend, they were noticeably upset despite having plenty of food and toys. If your schedule keeps you away from home regularly, getting a second cat makes a huge difference – my pair keep each other company when I’m at work.

For grooming, I follow this schedule:

• My short-haired male: Weekly brushing is plenty
• My long-haired female: Twice weekly brushing to avoid mats
• Both cats: Daily brushing during spring and fall shedding seasons

I’ve learned that regular dental care can’t be skipped – I brush their teeth weekly and provide dental treats between brushings. From the beginning, I established a nail trimming routine every three weeks, which keeps their claws at a safe length.

Exercise and play preferences

Despite looking like wild mini-lynxes, my Bobtails have moderate energy needs – about 30-60 minutes of daily play keeps them satisfied. Their smarts mean they quickly get bored with simple toys, so I focus on games that challenge them:

Play Preference	Description
Fetch	My male actually brings back toy mice when thrown
Hide and seek	I hide treats around the house for them to hunt
Puzzle toys	They’ll work for ages to get treats from dispensers
Leash walking	My female loves exploring our neighborhood safely harnessed

Their dog-like behavior extends to trainability – both my Bobtails have learned several tricks. The best part is how they prefer playing with me rather than alone, making playtime our special bonding experience each day.

Essential Care Guide for American Bobtail Cats

I’ve learned through years of caring for my American Bobtails that understanding their specific needs is key to keeping them healthy throughout their 13-18 year lifespan. While these cats are generally robust with moderate maintenance requirements, I follow certain care guidelines to help my furry companions thrive.

Nutrition and feeding recommendations

My Bobtails do exceptionally well on high-quality commercial cat food that provides complete nutrition. I make sure their diet includes:

• High-quality protein sources (I rotate between chicken, turkey, and fish)
• Essential fatty acids for maintaining their gorgeous coats
• Careful calorie control (I aim for approximately 330-350 kcals daily)

When my older male started gaining too much weight, I switched him to a specialized healthy weight formula. I’ve noticed my kitten needs different nutrition than my adults – she eats specialized kitten food to support her rapid development during this crucial first year. One trick I’ve learned is to place water bowls at least three feet from food – this encourages my cats to drink more throughout the day.

Grooming needs for short and long-haired varieties

Since I have both varieties in my home, I’ve developed different grooming routines:

Coat Type	Brushing Frequency	Shedding Considerations
Short-haired	Once weekly	Minimal matting issues
Long-haired	Twice weekly	More prone to tangles and mats

Spring and fall are intense shedding seasons in my household! Both my cats need much more frequent brushing during these times. I’ve established a regular nail trimming schedule every 2-3 weeks, and I brush their teeth weekly to prevent periodontal disease, which I’ve found is fairly common in this breed.

Health monitoring and preventative care

My relationship with our veterinarian forms the foundation of my cats’ preventative health. I schedule annual check-ups for my adult Bobtail and twice-yearly visits for my senior.

Though my Bobtails are generally healthy, I stay alert for signs of potential issues including:

• Hip dysplasia (I noticed slight stiffness in my older cat’s movements)
• Polycystic kidney disease (our vet recommended specific monitoring)
• Heart conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
• Spinal problems (particularly relevant for extremely short-tailed Bobtails)

I’ve learned that catching potential issues early dramatically improves treatment success. Even though my cats stay indoors, I maintain regular parasite prevention since I’ve found fleas can hitch rides inside on clothing or other pets.

Health Considerations for American Bobtail Cats

My American Bobtails have been remarkably healthy cats, but I’ve learned that understanding potential health concerns helps ensure these special felines enjoy their fullest life. While most Bobtails thrive with minimal health issues, I keep a watchful eye on mine for early signs of any problems.

Common health issues to watch for

Through my research and conversations with our vet, I’ve found American Bobtails face a few specific health challenges:

Health Concern	Description
Spinal issues	Particularly in tailless American Bobtails, affecting fecal continence
Hip dysplasia	Can develop with age, potentially causing lameness and arthritis
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)	Characterized by fluid-filled cysts disrupting kidney function [274]
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)	Thickening of heart muscle affecting pumping efficiency [271]
Dental disease	Affects over half of cats aged 4+ years

My friend adopted a nearly tailless Bobtail who needed extra attention since his shortened spine led to some bowel control difficulties. When I bought my first Bobtail, I made sure the breeder provided a written health guarantee addressing potential spinal concerns. This gave me peace of mind about their genetic health.

Lifespan expectations and factors

My oldest Bobtail lived to be 14, right in line with the typical 13-15 year lifespan [272]. Some of my cat owner friends have Bobtails reaching 18 years with proper care! I focus on several key factors to maximize my cats’ longevity:

• Keeping them at healthy weights (my male tends to get chubby if I’m not careful)
• Regular dental care (brushing their teeth weekly)
• Feeding them high-quality nutrition (I avoid fillers and by-products)
• Preventative veterinary visits

Veterinary care schedule

I follow a structured healthcare approach with my Bobtails:

• Kittens: I took my youngest for multiple early visits to get vaccinations against rabies and feline leukemia virus (FeLV), plus regular development tracking
• Adults: My middle-aged cats get annual check-ups focusing on preventative care, vaccinations, and weight management
• Seniors: My oldest gets bi-annual visits with comprehensive examinations and laboratory work to catch developing conditions early [272]

Regular veterinary care has helped me prevent common issues like dental disease through professional cleanings and early interventions. Blood work has been essential for my senior cat – it helped us detect early kidney changes before they became serious problems. These tests can identify conditions like kidney disease and hyperthyroidism that often affect older Bobtails.

FAQs

I get tons of questions about my American Bobtails from curious cat lovers. Let me answer the most common questions I hear about these amazing cats.

Are American Bobtail cats friendly?

My Bobtails are some of the friendliest cats I’ve ever owned, despite their wild appearance! They genuinely enjoy meeting new people and get along with virtually everyone. Unlike some breeds that bond with just one family member, my Bobtails form connections with everyone in our household – they’re true family cats.

Do American Bobtails have naturally short tails?

Yes! The bobbed tail that gives these cats their name is completely natural. My cats were born with their cute short tails due to a harmless genetic mutation that occurs spontaneously. People often ask if breeders dock their tails, but this isn’t the case at all – it’s just how they naturally develop.

How much does an American Bobtail cat cost?

When I was looking for my first Bobtail, registered cats from reputable breeders ranged between GBP 476.50 and GBP 0.95. The price varied based on lineage, coloration, and whether the cat was pet-quality or show-quality. I’ve also spotted these wonderful cats at rescue organizations and shelters for much lower adoption fees, which is worth checking if you’re interested in the breed.

Can American Bobtails live with other pets?

My Bobtails get along wonderfully with our other pets. They play with our dog daily and have even made friends with the neighbor’s cat who visits occasionally. Their easy-going nature helps them fit right into homes with multiple pets.

Do American Bobtail cats require special care for their tails?

My cats’ tails don’t need any special attention. The genetic mutation that causes their shortened tails doesn’t create health problems or require extra medical care. I treat their tails just like any other part of their bodies during grooming sessions.

Are American Bobtails hypoallergenic?

Unfortunately not. My friend with mild cat allergies still reacts to my Bobtails. While some breeds produce fewer allergens, American Bobtails produce the standard amount of proteins that trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people. If allergies are a concern, spending time with a Bobtail before bringing one home is a good idea.

Final Thoughts – American Bobtail Cats

My journey with American Bobtail cats has been nothing short of amazing. These special companions truly blend that wild, rugged appearance with the sweetest, most gentle personalities. I’ve watched my Bobtails adapt to every living situation we’ve encountered – from our busy family home to a quiet apartment and even weekend camping trips. Their natural ability to sense emotions and provide comfort continues to amaze me and my family.

Taking care of my Bobtails hasn’t been complicated at all. Their needs are straightforward – regular brushing (more for my long-haired female), quality food, and yearly vet visits keep them thriving throughout their 13-15 year lifespan. Though I monitor for potential health issues like hip dysplasia as they age, my cats have remained remarkably healthy compared to other breeds I’ve owned.

My Bobtails have become the heart of our household. Their dog-like loyalty shines through every day – following me from room to room, greeting visitors at the door, and even playing fetch with the kids. Unlike some of my previous cats who bonded primarily with me, my Bobtails have formed meaningful connections with everyone in the family. Yes, they need daily playtime and attention, but the affection they return makes every minute worthwhile.

If you’re considering an American Bobtail, understand you’re not just getting a pet – you’re welcoming a social, engaged family member who’ll participate in your daily life. My cats have brought so much joy through their playful antics, intelligent problem-solving, and unconditional affection. Whether you have a bustling family home or live alone, these adaptable, loving companions might be exactly the feline friends you’ve been looking for.

FAQs

Q1. Are American Bobtail cats good with children and other pets?
American Bobtails are excellent family pets. They are patient and tolerant with children and generally get along well with other cats and dog-friendly dogs. However, due to their hunting instincts, they may not be suitable companions for small prey animals.

Q2. How much exercise do American Bobtail cats need?
American Bobtails have moderate energy levels and require about 30-60 minutes of daily playtime. They enjoy interactive games that challenge their minds, such as fetch, hide and seek, and puzzle toys. Regular play sessions help keep them mentally stimulated and physically active.

Q3. What are the grooming requirements for American Bobtail cats?
Grooming needs vary based on coat length. Short-haired varieties need weekly brushing, while long-haired ones require twice-weekly brushing to prevent matting. All American Bobtails need more frequent brushing during seasonal shedding periods. Regular nail trimming and dental care are also important.

Q4. What health issues are common in American Bobtail cats?
While generally healthy, American Bobtails can be prone to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia, polycystic kidney disease, and heart conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Tailless American Bobtails may also experience spinal problems. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and treatment.

Q5. How long do American Bobtail cats typically live?
With proper care, American Bobtail cats typically have a lifespan of 13-15 years, with some sources suggesting they may live up to 18 years. Factors affecting longevity include maintaining a healthy weight, regular dental care, high-quality nutrition, and preventative veterinary visits.