Japanese Bobtail Long Hair cat laying on ground with Ginger coat.

Japanese Bobtail | History, Traits, and Care

Japanese Bobtail Traits: What Makes This Breed Stand Out?


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 coat is soft and silky without an undercoat, resulting in surprisingly minimal shedding (long hair & short hair varieties) .

Quick facts



  • Life Span  9 - 15 years.
  • Average Weight   2.7kg to 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



  1. Japanese Bobtail Long Hair is ideal for first-time cat owners
  2. Enjoys playing games and staying active at home
  3. Japanese Bobtail Long Hair playful and curious nature
  4. Sociable and affectionate
  5. Japanese Bobtail Long Hair moderately talkative
  6. Medium-sized cat breed
  7. Japanese Bobtail Long Hair needs daily grooming
  8. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments
  9. Japanese Bobtail Long Hair excellent family cat
  10. Can be left alone for a few hours
  11. Japanese Bobtail Long Hair are perfect for a relaxed home atmosphere


Japanese Bobtail - Breed Health


The Japanese Bobtail 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.


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 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
  • Tendency to Vocalize:   1/5
  • Likes Other Pets:  5/5
  • Grooming needs:  3/5
  • Shedding:  2/5


History and Origins


The Japanese Bobtail, 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. 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.

Grooming your Japanese Bobtail 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 parasite 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.

FAQs



  • Where did the Japanese Bobtail originate?

The Japanese Bobtail breed originated in Japan, where it has been documented since ancient times.


  • Do Japanese Bobtails need a lot of exercise?

Japanese Bobtails are active and agile cats that enjoy playing and climbing. Regular play sessions can help satisfy their exercise needs.


  • Can Japanese Bobtails be trained?

Yes, Japanese Bobtails are intelligent cats that can be trained using positive reinforcement techniques.


  • Do Japanese Bobtails have any unique behaviors?

Yes, Japanese Bobtails are known for their love of water and playful nature. They may also engage in "tail-talk," using their tails to communicate.


  • Are Japanese Bobtails good for apartment living?

Yes, Japanese Bobtails can adapt well to apartment living if provided with enough space and mental stimulation.


  • Are Japanese Bobtails prone to obesity?

Like all cats, Japanese Bobtails can become overweight if overfed or not provided enough exercise. Monitor their food intake and encourage regular activity.



Kelly with her Cat Edward Stafford

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.

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