Table of content
Japanese Bobtail (long hair) Traits: What Makes This Breed Stand Out?
The Japanese Bobtail cat is known for its slender, athletic build and lively, playful nature. This breed is highly intelligent and has a long standing association with good fortune in Japanese culture.
The Japanese Bobtail is a medium sized cat with a finely chiseled head and strong, upright ears framing its large, inquisitive eyes. Its most distinctive feature is the short, curled tail, which resembles a pom-pom and may have some fused joints, though the length and mobility can vary.
Japanese Bobtails (long hair) coat is soft and silky without an undercoat, resulting in surprisingly minimal shedding.
Quick facts
Life Span |
How long do Japanese Bobtails cats live? 9 - 15 years. |
Average Weight |
2.7kg - 4.5kg |
Colours |
Japanese Bobtails come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, with the traditional "mi-ke" being the most iconic. This tri-colored pattern combines rich red, deep black, and crisp white. |
Essential Information
- The Japanese Bobtail Long Hair is an excellent family cat.
- Sociable and affectionate, it enjoys human companionship.
- Obesity can be avoided by keeping them active with Interactive Cat Toys.
- Perfect for a relaxed home atmosphere.
- Medium-sized Cat Breed, suitable for most homes.
- Their Body Language often reflects their mood.
- Needs daily Grooming to maintain its coat's health and reduce shedding.
- Requires regular care of their Cat Teeth.
- Great Indoor Cat and outdoor.
- Ideal for first-time cat owners.
- Moderately talkative but not overly vocal.
- Active and enjoys playing games at home, promoting a healthy weight.
- Can be left alone for a few hours without issue.
- Grooming sessions are a great way to bond with this affectionate breed.
- Interactive Cat Toys keep their curious mind engaged and healthy.
Japanese Bobtail Long Hair - Breed Health
The Japanese Bobtail long hair cat breed lacks the gene mutation found in other tailless breeds like the Manx cat. However, the absence of a tail in the Japanese Bobtail is still linked to spinal deformities. More research is needed to determine if these deformities cause health issues in the Bobtail breed¹.
- Obesity: If not kept active, they may struggle with Obesity, leading to related health concerns.
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Dental Disease: Regular dental care is important to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. -
Heart Disease: Some cats, including Japanese Bobtails, can develop heart conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). -
Kidney Disease: Older cats may be prone to Kidney Disease, a common problem in many breeds.
¹R. E. Pollard and A. L. Koehne, "Japanese Bobtail: vertebral morphology and genetic characterization of an established cat breed," Dec 2014, Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
Personality of the Japanese Bobtail
Playful, curious, and bold, the Japanese Bobtail Long Hair is an engaging companion. This Bobtail Cat, with its characteristic short tail, is a high energy breed likely to capture your heart. Known as the Cat Japanese, or Maneki Neko, they are often considered symbols of good luck, with their paw raised in a beckoning gesture. This domestic cat, historically cherished by the imperial family, loves fuss and cuddles, enjoys climbing and playing, and boasts a lean, athletic build. Sociable with their kind, they can be introduced to other pets if done carefully. With a lifespan of many years and a weight of several pounds, the Japanese Bobtail remains a beloved breed in the United States and beyond.
Breed Rating
Family Friendly |
5/5 |
Playfulness |
4/5 |
Intelligence |
4/5 |
Likes Other Pets |
5/5 |
Grooming Needs |
3/5 |
Shedding |
2/5 |
Vocalize |
1/5 |
History and Origins
The Japanese Bobtail Long Hair, an ancient breed likely tracing back to 8th century Japan, wasn't seen outside the country until the 1960s when it caught the attention of American breeders. This high energy domestic cat is often considered a symbol of good luck, frequently depicted as the paw raising Maneki Neko. Known for its unique short tail and lively energy level, the Bobtail Cat was historically used to protect silk production from rodents, which likely contributed to its lucky reputation. Recognized in the United States but still rare in the UK, this breed has a characteristic lifespan of many years and a weight range of several pounds. The Japanese Bobtail's distinctive traits and connections to the imperial family and traditional Japanese culture make it a truly unique and cherished breed.
Outdoors or Indoors
Japanese Bobtails, including the long haired variety, appreciate outdoor time but aren't suited to full time outdoor living due to their lack of undercoat. Providing a secure garden or a heated cat run with access to a warm house is ideal. They enjoy climbing logs and sunbathing on shelves but are sensitive to strong winds and wet weather. Known for their association with luck and depicted frequently in Japanese art, especially as the Maneki Neko, they remain rare outside Japan and are a recognized breed in the United States.
Enrichment and Special Requirements
The Japanese Bobtail, a Cat Japanese breed, is known for its unique bobtail characteristic and the cultural symbol it represents, often associated with the beckoning "neko." With an average lifespan of several years and weighing a few pounds, this breed is cherished for its distinctive appearance and lively personality.
Nutrition and Feeding
Each Japanese Bobtail cat is unique in its dietary preferences and nutritional needs. As obligate carnivores, they require 41 essential nutrients from their food. The balance of these nutrients varies with age, lifestyle, and overall health. For instance, a playful kitten needs a different nutrient profile than a sedate senior cat.
Find out more about Kitten Care with our article.
It's important to feed them the right quantity of food to maintain their ideal body condition, following feeding guidelines. Additionally, respecting their preference for wet or dry food enhances their overall nutrition and well being.
Find out more about cat nutrition with our article.
Grooming your Japanese Bobtail Long Hair Cat
The long haired Japanese Bobtail, a unique breed of Cat Japanese, requires more thorough Grooming than its short haired counterpart. While they can groom themselves to some extent, regular Grooming sessions are crucial for bonding and checking for injuries or parasites. A greasy coat may indicate a need for grooming help and could signal underlying health issues. As with all cats, it's important to prioritize regular Vaccinations and Flea Control to ensure their well being.
Family Life Compatibility
Ideal for family homes with older children who understand a cat's needs and can provide them with space, the Bobtail is a busy and curious breed. However, this trait may not be suitable for homes with very young children or for individuals who are away from home for extended periods each day.
Japanese Bobtail Fun Facts
- In Japan, the breed is considered a symbol of good fortune, and their likeness is often used in "Maneki-neko" (the beckoning cat) statues.
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Japanese Bobtails are known for their soft, almost musical meows, and they often "talk" to their owners with a variety of sounds. -
This breed is quick to learn new tricks and enjoys interactive play, making them great candidates for games like fetch.
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The Japanese Bobtail has been depicted in Japanese art and folklore for centuries, with some records dating back over 1,000 years.
FAQ
Finding Japanese Bobtail kittens for sale?
The best places to find Japanese Bobtail kittens for sale include reputable breeders, breed-specific rescue organizations, and online pet platforms. Websites like The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) and The International Cat Association (TICA) often list certified breeders. Always ensure you're dealing with responsible breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their cats.
What cat breed are related to the Japanese Bobtail?
The Japanese Bobtail shares some characteristics with a few other cat breeds, primarily those known for their unique tails. The Kurilian Bobtail, originating from Russia, is one such breed that resembles the Japanese Bobtail with its short, bobbed tail and athletic build. Another related breed is the American Bobtail, which, like the Japanese Bobtail, is recognized for its shortened tail, although the American version was developed in the United States and has a more muscular physique. Additionally, the Manx breed, known for either having no tail or a very short one, shares the trait of a bobbed tail, although its genetic mutation differs from that of the Japanese Bobtail. While these breeds have similar physical traits, they each have distinct histories and characteristics.
How rare is a Japanese Bobtail?
The Japanese Bobtail is considered a relatively rare breed, especially outside of Japan. While it has a rich cultural history and is well-known in Japan, its population remains limited in many other parts of the world. Certified breeders are not as widespread as for more common cat breeds, which contributes to its rarity. However, their distinct appearance and charming personalities have made them increasingly popular among cat enthusiasts, so while they are not common, they can still be found through dedicated breeders and breed-specific organizations.
Are Japanese Bobtail cats friendly?
Yes, Japanese Bobtail cats are known for being very friendly and sociable. They enjoy interacting with people, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. Japanese Bobtail cats are often affectionate and thrive on attention, forming strong bonds with their owners. Their playful and curious nature also adds to their charm, making them not only friendly but also engaging and entertaining pets.
Are Japanese Bobtail cats born without tails?
No, Japanese Bobtail cats are not born without tails. Instead, they are born with a distinct, short tail that is often described as "bobbed." This tail is the result of a natural genetic mutation, and no two Japanese Bobtail tails are exactly alike. While the tail is much shorter than that of most cats, it is not completely absent, and it typically has a unique shape with bends or curves, giving the breed its characteristic look.
How much is a Japanese Bobtail worth?
Why do Japanese cats look perfect?
Japanese cats, particularly the Japanese Bobtail , are often admired for their graceful and elegant appearance, which many people consider "perfect." The Japanese Bobtail has a slender, athletic body with well-defined features that give it a sleek and balanced look. Their striking almond-shaped eyes and triangular head contribute to this refined aesthetic. Additionally, their short, bobbed tails are unique and add to their charm. The combination of these physical traits, along with their poised and confident posture, makes the Japanese Bobtail appear almost flawless to many cat enthusiasts.
Kelly Rushton
Meet Kelly Rushton, a dedicated cat enthusiast and proud owner of Feline Fancy Ltd. With a heart as big as her household, Kelly is the loving mum to 10 charming Ragdoll cats. In her world, felines reign supreme, and she brings professionalism and warmth to everything she does. Through her blog, Kelly shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences, offering insights into cat care, behavior, and the joy of living alongside these majestic creatures.
