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The American Bobtail is a highly intelligent breed, renowned for its sociable, friendly, and playful demeanour.
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The American Bobtail is a highly intelligent breed, renowned for its sociable, friendly, and playful demeanour.
Questions To Ask A Breeder
- Are you are registered breeder?
- Can we meet in person?
- Have they been socialised?
Breed Characteristics
Grooming
Exercise
Size Range
The Ultimate American Bobtail Guide
About American Bobtail
Lifespan
13 to 15 years
Weight
4 to 8 kg
Height
25 to 30 cm
Grooming
The American Bobtail’s coat requires moderate grooming.
Origins
Contrary to what one might assume, the American Bobtail’s shortened tail is not a result of human design through selective breeding, but rather a product of natural genetic mutation. The breed’s story began in the 1960s when a male cat with a stubby tail was discovered on a Native American reservation in Arizona. This cat’s descendants carried the short-tail gene, giving rise to the breed we know today as the American Bobtail.
It’s also important to note that while the breed is named the American Bobtail, they are not related to the Japanese Bobtail, another short-tailed breed that has a different genetic background and physical characteristics.
Key Characteristics Of American Bobtails
Are American Bobtails Family-Friendly?
The American Bobtail is known to be an excellent family pet. Their playful, outgoing, and loving temperament makes them a great companion for children.
Common Health Issues & Considerations
American Bobtails may suffer from:
Heart disease
Obesity
Dental disease
Nature / Temperament
Intelligent, Sociable, Playful, Loyal, Adaptable
Suitable Environment
An ideal living environment for an American Bobtail would be indoors with access to a variety of stimulating toys, puzzle feeders, and climbing trees or shelves. It’s generally safer and healthier to keep cats indoors to protect them from hazards such as traffic, disease, or potential encounters with predators or other threats.
Other Considerations
- They have a strong, muscular build and a wild appearance reminiscent of bobcats, despite having no bobcat DNA.
- American Bobtails are also known for their “hunting” skills – they are adept at catching flies and other small prey, even indoors. This attribute adds to their dog-like personality and makes playtime an exciting event.
- They are known for their interactive nature and their love of playing games.
How can I take good care of my American Bobtail?
Nutrition
As with any cat breed, a balanced diet is crucial for the American Bobtail. Quality commercial cat food that is high in protein is a good choice. Be mindful of their calorie intake as these cats can be prone to obesity.
Grooming
A weekly brush should suffice for short-haired Bobtails, while the longer-haired ones might require brushing a few times a week to prevent matting and tangles.
Recommended Grooming Tips
Using a good quality cat brush or grooming tool, make sure to brush all over, and be gentle to avoid hurting the cat or damaging their coat.
If your cat isn’t comfortable with tooth brushing, dental treats or a specially-formulated dental diet can help.
Clean their ears with a soft, damp cloth, but avoid using cotton swabs which can damage the interior of the ear.
Exercise
Regular playtime should be a part of an American Bobtail’s routine. Toys that mimic prey, such as feather wands or mouse toys, can provide both mental and physical stimulation. Puzzle toys can also keep them engaged and help prevent obesity.
Training
American Bobtails, with their intelligent and engaging nature, can be trained to perform tricks, and even to walk on a leash. Using positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, petting, and treats can make training sessions enjoyable and effective.
This is general information and should not be relied on for adopting or purchasing advice.
Most Asked American Bobtail Questions
No. American Bobtails are not known to be a breed that is less likely to cause allergic reactions.
Unlike many cats, American Bobtails tend to be less averse to water and some may even enjoy swimming. However, each cat is an individual and their preference for water can vary.
Finding a reputable American Bobtail breeder is the key to getting a healthy, well-behaved American Bobtail kitten. American Bobtail kittens for sale from ethical breeders have a much better chance of growing into calm, gentle adult cats. The average cost of an American Bobtail for sale is usually around AUD $800 to $1500.
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