The Japanese Bobtail Breed

Has existed in Japan for many centuries; it is featured in many ancient prints and painting. The cat with a raised paw, the traditional Japanese symbol of good luck, is modeled after the famous and favored Japanese Bobtails. Japanese Bobtails are strong and healthy cats. Compared to other breeds, they are active earlier, walk earlier and start getting into trouble earlier. They are active, intelligent, talkative cats. Their soft voices are capable of nearly a whole scale of tones; some people say they sing. Since they adore human companionship they almost always speak when spoken to. Japanese Bobtails love to carry things in their mouth, and most enjoy a game of fetch. Masters of the pounce, they also love to ride on shoulders. Intelligent, fun, playful, affectionate, spirited, beguiling, elegant, beautiful, exquisite, all describe but do not fully capture the joy of the personality and appearance of the Japanese Bobtail. The breeds tail which is unique to each cat, their gait, Asian appearance, delightful mischief making and showmanship are all part and parcel of the Japanese Bobtail.

The Japanese Bobtails Appearance.

The Japanese Bobtail is a medium-sized cat with long, clean lines. The body is long, lean and strong level from hip to shoulder with the hind legs longer than the forelegs. The level back is achieved by the deep angulation of the back legs. The ideal Bobtail is Japanese in look, with large oval, slanted eyes, high cheekbones and noticeable whisker break. The Head should form an equilateral triangle, not including the ears which should be large and set high on the head. Their single coat, showing no signs of under-coat, should be medium in length, flat-lying, smooth and silky. The tail, the very thing that first identifies the breed, should be clearly visible and less than 3 inches long. Gentle handling of the tail is necessary as it is sensitive. Most Japanese Bobtails will wiggle or wag their tails, a trick which always elicits a smile.

Their health, soundness, beauty and upstanding nature make the Japanese Bobtail the ideal companion.