American Bobtail Cat

The American Bobtail cat breed is best known for the trait for which it is named: its short, stubby tail, which may be only a few inches long. In fact, American Bobtails' tails are rarely more than half as long as the average cat's tail. This unique trait is the result of a genetic mutation. One of the newest cat breeds, the American Bobtail was developed in the 1970s in, true to its name, the United States. Many people find these cats "dog-like," exhibiting loyalty and athleticism.

American Bobtail Behavior/Personality

Source: Cat Fancier Association's Breed Profile

Described as "dog-like," being very active and also loyal. They are also considered very friendly and generally get along well with children and strangers.

American Bobtail Breed Standard/Physical Description

Here are some facts on the American Bobtail breed based on the Cat Fanciers Association's breed standard.

• Head: broad
• Muzzle: broad, medium-long
• Ears: medium-sized
• Eyes: almond-shaped, big
• Body: medium-long, broad-chested
• Legs: slim and long
• Paws: large and round
• Tail: short, half as long as the average cat's tail
• Coat: both shorthair and longhair varieties with various colors

American Bobtail History

Source: Cat Fancier Association's Breed Profile and Wikipedia

While these cats may look like bobcats, there's no actual relation. American Bobtails were first bred in the US in the 1970s. The breed was recognized by the International Cat Association in 1989. American Bobtails became especially popular toward the end of the twentieth century.

The breed's distinctive bobbed tail is the result of a genetic mutation. Despite obvious similarities with the Japanese Bobtail, the two breeds are utterly unrelated and the mutated bobtail gene is different in each case.