Cat Breeds: Japenese Bobtail

Japanese Bobtail

The Japanese Bobtail as its name suggests originates from Japan. The unique feature of these cats is their tail. When the cat is relaxed and natural the tail looks like that of a rabbit but it can be unfurled to a length of about four or five inches. In Japan the breed can be traced back to the 8th century but it was not seen outside Japan until the 1960’s when the short haired Japanese Bobtails were imported into America. They carried the long haired gene, which soon turned up in litters of kittens. The Japanese Bobtail has established a following in America and it is now a recognized breed and is widely shown there. As yet this is not the case in Great Britain and these cats aren't very well known there.

The Japanese Bobtail is a cat of medium size with elegant lines and well-developed musculature. The head is finely chiselled and forms a triangle with curving lines and high cheekbones. In profile the nose is long and well defined and there is a gentle dip at or just below the eyes. The ears are large and upright and set well apart. The eyes are large and round, always wide and alert. In profile the eyes are set at a pronounced slant, the eyeball shows a shallow curve and does not protrude beyond the cheekbone or forehead. The legs are slender and long with the hind legs noticeably longer than the front legs. The paws are oval. The tail when carried normally only extends about two or three inches although it can be straightened out to about four or five inches. When the cat is relaxed the tail is carried upright. The hair on the tail is generally thicker and longer than elsewhere and grows in all directions to create the effect of a pom-pom or bunny tail.

The Japanese Bobtail is extremely friendly and intelligent. They have a sweet nature and get on with most other animals and love human company. Some can learn tricks and do need to be kept amused. They make good family pets. 





*This information was gather from www.purina.com