American Bobtail
The American Bobtail is one of the newest cat breeds, appearing in the late 1960s. It is commonly known for its bobbed tail, a result of a cat body type genetic mutation which has also affected the Manx cat. American Bobtails are a sturdy breed with both short and longhaired coats. They have a more "wild" tabby cat appearance yet are a magnificent, tamed looking creature.
American Bobtail History
According to legends, the American Bobtail is a result of crossbreeding between a domestic tabby cat and a bobcat. Yodie (a short tailed brown tabby male) was supposed to have mated with a seal point Siamese female cat which is how the American Bobtail was created. The unusual tail on the American Bobcat is the result of a random spontaneous genetic mutation within the domestic cat population.
The Bobtail's original appearance was modified in the breed to form a new breed which is distinct in color and category. The shorthair versions have appeared more commonly where once the longhair versions were the only recognized breed. This new look gives the Bobtail a wilder look, however it still remains a gentle and sweet cat breed. The breed has been recognized by the International Cat Association since 1989 and is accepted for championship competition in the Cat Fanciers Association, the International Cat Association, and the American Cat Fancier's Association.
Body Type
The American Bobtail is a medium to large bobtailed cat. It is also fairly athletic, well muscled, and has a general appearance of power. Its head is strong, broad, and wedge shaped with distinctive brows above the almond shaped eyes. Its coat is very unique in that it can be both a medium short haired cat, and a medium length long haired cat. The coat is very resilient and water resistant. It adapts well to the changing environment and has an exceptional disposition.
Personality
The American Bobtail is quite kind and loving, not to mention very intelligent. They have been known to be the most like a dog in personality as they can be very devoted and loyal to their owners. They will often times greet their owner at the door upon returning home, which is more of a dog trait. This is an especially great cat to get if you want an animal that will bond with their family unit. They get along well with most dogs and are not shy to newcomers, pets, and humans. They have been purchased by many truck drivers because they make great cabin companions and are great travelers. They have also been used in Psychotherapy and treatment programs because of their sensitivity to people and exceptional behavior. If you were to judge them on a scale of 1-10 (1 being calm and 10 being very active), the American Bobtail would rate about a 7.5-8.0. Many breeders claim that they are playful and friendly as well as energetic and intelligent. They make great pets for children because they are so tolerant of being picked up and handled carelessly.
A disadvantage to owning an American Bobtail is that some of the bobtail breeds have bad hips and Rumpies; a condition that exists in tail-less bobtails due to a shortened spine. However, healthy American Bobtails make great family friendly pets.
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