American Bobtail Kittens
American Bobtail kittens have a uniquely wild and untamed appearance. Yet, they make loving house pets. Learn more about this gentle breed.
History
The American Bobtail kitten is part of a distinctly American breed. The breed came about as a result of natural selection. It is surmised that American Bobtails derived from domestic short-haired cats. The breed survived through the harsh winters of the Northeast coast of North America. In the 1800’s American Bobtails gained recognition in the United States and were routinely in cat shows.
However, by the early 1900’s the breed lost favor as other long-haired cats took stole the spotlight. Since the 1960’s and 1970’s the breed has taken hold of the public’s imagination once again. American Bobtails reached the Cat Fanciers’ Association Championship status in 1976.
Physical Appearance
American Bobtails can have either long or short hair. Long-haired American Bobtails have fairly shaggy coats. Short-haired Bobtails have somewhat dense coats. However, almost all American Bobtails have the characteristic short stubby “bobbed” tail. Some tails average up to 4 inches in length. However, some grow longer or shorter.
Bobtails have medium to large sized frames. They also have wedge shaped heads and large almond shaped eyes.
American Bobtails have strong muscular builds and are excellent hunters. They can be quite athletic given their powerful form. Almost all American Bobtails retain a wild and exotic look about them.
Colors
All eye colors are accepted in this breed. However, odd eye colors are not accepted in most cat associations. American Bobtails come in all colors and patterns. And there is little association between eye color and coat color.
Temperament
American Bobtail cats are very affectionate and intelligent. They are tremendously empathic and can sense human emotions quite well. Overall, they are highly intuitive creatures. American Bobtails make sweet and loving house pets. They are adaptable and almost dog-like in their loyalty towards their owners.
American Bobtails are also great with kids and are tolerant and patient with youngsters. They can also be trained on a leash and can be taught to play games of fetch. Bobtails are overall quiet and soft voiced cats. Yet, they will become quite vocal when they want their needs met.
Development
American Bobtail kittens generally take about 2 to 3 years to fully develop into adulthood. In addition, Bobtail cats are excellent parents and can be quite attentive towards their offspring. The Bobtail’s short tail has been a mystery to many. They short stubby tail is caused by a dominant gene. It’s not uncommon to see short-tailed and long-tailed kittens existing in the same litter.
Care
The American Bobtail coat is water resistant. That mean water has a very difficult time penetrating the Bobtails coat. The water resistant coat arose as an adaptation due to the wet and damp climate the breed’s early ancestors had to endure.
Luckily, there is minimal grooming required for the Bobtail. Simply brush the coat if needed or use your hands to smooth the coat. The coats of longer haired American Bobtails don not tangle easily.
Health
American Bobtails are overall healthy cats. There are no major health problems in the breed.
Remember…American Bobtail kittens are loyal and friendly pets!
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