The American Bobtail cat is one of the cutest breeds with their short tail. Besides being very loving and affectionate, they will play for hours at a time and even entertain their owners. This cat forms a tight bond with their human companions and remains deeply loyal to them.
It is highly intelligent and able to quickly learn new tricks which explains why it’s reputed for having a dog-like personality. Because of all these traits, they’re in really high demand by people wanting a sweet feline friend. Bring one home and you will certainly be happy!
American Bobtail Cat Facts
- American Bobtails are known to be fantastic therapy cats. Medical specialists are actually adding alternative methods of stress relief for patients utilizing these felines. The results are nothing short of amazing thanks to their incredible loyalty and caring nature.
- Despite their wild appearance, American Bobtails are extremely friendly and outgoing. They are very tolerant with a care-free attitude making them perfect for interaction with family members, older children, guests or strangers, and even other pets.
- The stance of an American Bobtail may look like they are constantly crouching. This is due to the front legs being shorter than the hind legs just like wild bobcats.
- This breed has a strange affinity for shiny objects like gold or silver. If you find a piece of jewelry missing, you may want to check favorite hiding places of the crafty cat burglar.
- American Bobtails make great traveling companions as they become quite attached to their owners and will remain calm while driving. Many truckers are seen with this breed.
- Being capable of jumping very high off the ground, these cats can leap over 6 feet in the air because of their strong hind legs, which is easily reaching the top of a refrigerator.
Physical Features
- Lifespan: 13 to 15 years. Up to 20 years with the right environment and diet.
- Weight: Females weigh 7-11 lbs with males being a bit larger from 12 to 16 lbs.
- Body Type: Medium to large size with a stocky build. Take 2-3 years to mature.
- Eye Color: copper, gold, yellow, green, blue
- Coat Color: white, black, light blue, deep red, cream, chocolate, lavender, cinnamon
- Shedding: Average but depends on short or long hair and the seasonal changes.
Personality Traits
- Activity Level: Can be very playful for long periods of time as long as they have either toys, another cat or even a dog. On the other hand, they can also be relatively calm and often take naps during the day, seeking out comfort in a warm lap or cozy hideaway.
- Breed Intellect: Extremely intelligent and sensitive to human emotions as well. They can easily learn many things and have even been known to open locked cages or closed doors in the home. You can teach them tricks and enjoy their dog-like personality.
- Temperament: Words used to describe this breed are easy-going, adaptable, compassionate, fun-loving, gentle, devoted, therapeutic, communicative, and very cute.
- Attention Needs: Because of their incredible loyalty, they might follow you around looking for the opportunity to jump in the middle of whatever you’re doing as they love being close to you. They could become depressed if left alone for extended periods.
- Caring Nature: A wonderful, loving cat who will curl up in your lap and join you on the couch or bed for cuddle time. Petting and scratching sessions are among their favorites. Some even enjoy those moments when you’re brushing them too.
- Vocal Tendency: American Bobtail cats can be vocal at times with a variety of soft meows, cute chirps, and loving purrs. They will make their intentions known and can definitely be talkative. You’ll appreciate their ability to have conversations.
- Kids Compatible: This breed gets along well with children and pre-teens as long as they know how to treat the cat. Infants that are too young or those who may mishandle the cat need to be supervised when together, at least until they’re older and understand.
- Tolerates Pets: As long as the other animals can get along with the cat, then all should be fine. Oftentimes there will be a period of adjustment when a new cat is introduced into the home. Birds and mice are not recommended as this breed will open the cages.
- Stranger-Friendly: They are excellent with friends or guests so feel free to invite as many people over as you like. This social breed loves attention from everyone.
Health and Well-Being
Ideal Living Situation
While the American Bobtail may look wild, it is actually a very friendly, quiet, and loving kitty. Whether you live alone in a small apartment or have a family in a large home, this cat can adapt to all types of environments and conditions.
Possible Health Problems
For the most part, this breed is generally healthy and has no predispositions to any genetic problems.
Hip Dysplasia could be somewhat of a concern with American Bobtails due to a malformation of the hip joints and the shortened spine, since the tail is part of the spinal column.
Arthritis may be found in the hind section, particularly with mature cats.
Other feline issues to watch out for are PKD or Polycystic Kidney Disease, where cysts develop on the kidneys and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy which is thickening of the heart muscle. UTI or urinary tract infections are also possible.
Annual Vaccinations
There are four core vaccines and one non-core option available for all cats.
The first essential vaccine would be Rabies which is a fatal disease if exposed to it.
The second inoculation (FVRCP) is a combination of the remaining three core vaccines in one. This covers Feline Herpesvirus 1 or FHV-1 which is an upper respiratory infection, Feline Calicivirus or FCV which attacks the upper respiratory tract, and the final is Feline Panleukopenia Virus or FPV (also known as Feline Distemper) which is life threatening and extremely dangerous for young cats and kittens.
You can get the optional non-core vaccine Feline Leukemia Virus or FeLV. This is considered a core vaccine for every kitten. Make an appointment with your local vet to discuss and schedule all these vaccinations.
Grooming Routine
When caring for cats, there are four specific areas which need regular attention.
Weekly brushing is the minimum required to keep their fur healthy and shiny. This also helps distribute natural body oils, remove dead hair, and eliminate matted fur.
When the nails are getting a little too sharp and ripping furniture or carpet, it’s time to trim them. Be sure not to trim off too much of each nail as this can cause pain.
Cats are prone to periodontal disease and gingivitus so brushing their teeth with veterinarian-approved toothpaste once or twice a week should suffice. You can also give them dental treats to clean their teeth in between brushing.
Finally, you’ll want to address the ears. While cats have a built-in mechanism for cleansing their inner ear canals, the visible portion of their ears should occasionally be very gently swabbed to remove foreign matter.
Please consult a veterinarian for the proper procedures when grooming your cat.
Feeding Advice
Cats are known as obligate carnivores or strict meat eaters. Their diets should primarily consist of high protein and a few fats.
While carbohydrates are not usually a part of feline nutrition, scientists have concluded they are able to be used for energy in small amounts. On the other hand, if a cat is continuously fed too many carbs, diabetes can actually develop later in their life.
When choosing a wet or dry food, you need to read the caloric information labels to ensure your cat is being fed the appropriate nutrient levels.
Normally, wet foods should contain around 70% to 80% moisture as cats from past feral generations obtained most of their liquids from the animals they killed and ate.
Proteins are ideal when they’re between 10% and 20% in grain-free wet food. Seafood varieties are typically the highest in protein.
Two of the best dry food formulas on the market would be Natural Balance Limited Ingredients Diet with High Protein and Orijen Biologically Appropriate Cat Food. These specially made dry food products include healthy amounts of prepared raw meats, some needed fats, and minimal carbohydrates.
Exercise Tips
You should plan to play with your cat at least 15 minutes everyday, although, more is encouraged with certain active breeds.
Feather toys and laser pointers are a great choice to keep them moving. This helps relieve their boredom and reduces the chance for depression as well.
For a really cheap play session, simply buy a ball of string. Cut off a ten foot section at a time and drag it around the house behind you. Your kitties will love attacking the end of the string! Big fun for a small price.
Catnip is another way to offer an edible distraction in their lives. Don’t worry, the effects typically wear off in about 15 minutes or so.
One of the best items you can acquire for exercise would be a cat tree or cat condo. This is basically a jungle gym for cats which provides a place for climbing, relaxing, and sharpening their claws instead of using your furniture.
There are a couple other alternatives including an exercise wheel, which can be somewhat expensive, and a simple body harness with a leash for outdoor walks. Your cat may or may not like this option but, you can give it a try.
American Bobtail Cat Price
The American Bobtail price can range from $600 to $1000 for pedigreed kittens with all their vaccinations. The price varies from different breeders and depends highly on their physical features as well as their lineage.
It’s possible to adopt an American Bobtail cat for charges around $30 to $175 but these will likely be mixed breeds.
Registered American Bobtail Breeders
Cherokee Mountain Bobtails – Alabama
Tsalagi Bobs – Arkansas
Catalons – California
Shelbie Cats – California
Ameribob – Indiana
OzBobz American Bobtails – Missouri
Magicbobs – Pennsylvania
Cosmic Bobtail Cats – Tennessee
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