BREED PROFILE · MUTATION

American
Bobtail

Felis catus

The wilderness companion. Athletic, deeply affectionate, and distinguished by their expressive, short bobbed tail, American Bobtails are known as the gentle giants of the domestic cat world.

United States
ORIGIN
13–15
LIFESPAN (YEARS)
7–16 lb
TYPICAL WEIGHT
Origin
Arizona, USA
Coat pattern
All patterns (Tabby favored)
Coat length
Short or Medium-Long
Energy level
Medium-High
Hypoallergenic
No
TICA recognized
1989
Experience level
Beginner Friendly
Geographic Origins

Grand Canyon & Arizona, USA

The foundational breed ancestors were discovered as wild domestic kittens living near the Grand Canyon region in Arizona during the late 1960s.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
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The Discovery of Yodie
A vacationing couple in Arizona found a feral, short-tailed kitten named Yodie. He became the founding father of the entire American Bobtail breed.
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A Natural Mutation
Unlike the Manx, the American Bobtail's short tail is caused by a dominant genetic mutation that does not bring severe skeletal health challenges.
Overview

The wilderness companion

The American Bobtail is a rugged, medium-to-large cat renowned for its wild look, friendly, dog-like personality, and distinctive bobbed tail. Often referred to as the "Golden Retriever" of the feline world, they possess an incredibly loving, adaptable, and highly social nature.

Whether retrieving tossed toys, walking smoothly on a harness, or greeting guests at the door, Bobtails are highly interactive. They form powerful bonds with family members, including dogs and other household pets.

Temperament

Personality & character traits

American Bobtails are extremely adaptable, confident, and empathetic. They are highly attuned to their owners' feelings, making them outstanding therapy companions. Playful yet calm, they adjust beautifully to active homes, travel, and quiet environments alike.

Adaptability & Travel5 / 5
Affection & Family Bonding5 / 5
Playfulness & Intelligence4 / 5
Sociability with other pets5 / 5
Appearance

Physical characteristics

A broad chest, sturdy boning, and muscular hind legs give this breed its trademark "wild tracker" look. Their crowning glory is the short, expressive bobbed tail—flexible, uniquely patterned, and measuring between one to four inches.

Characteristic Description Notes
Tail Type Expressive Bobtail 1 to 4 inches, straight, curved, or slightly kinked
Coat Type Double coat (Short or Long) Resilient, dense weather-resistant texture
Eye Shape Almond & Deep-Set Gives them an alert, hunting-like gaze
Body Shape Semi-cobby, muscular Substantial bone structure with slightly longer back legs
Care guide

What American Bobtail ownership requires

Bobtails are robust and relatively low-maintenance, but they crave daily companionship. Their high intelligence means they need puzzle toys and consistent physical games to prevent boredom.

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Grooming
Weekly brushing keeps their dense double coat free of loose hairs and maintaining a healthy shine.
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Nutrition
Balanced, protein-rich diets with controlled portions to keep this muscular breed at an optimal weight.
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Travel & Leash Work
Highly responsive to harness training. Many Bobtails enjoy accompanying owners on weekend walks.
Enrichment for Bobtails

Essentials that match their active, canine nature

Health & lifespan

Known health considerations

American Bobtails are a exceptionally hardy natural breed. However, responsible breeders monitor for a few skeletal conditions linked to tail development.

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Spinal & Hip Development
Cats born without tails (rumpies) can experience spinal fusion. Responsible breeding avoids this.
Low Risk
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Obesity Management
Because of their heavy boning, weight gain must be closely managed with active play and measured feeds.
Moderate Risk
History

The American Bobtail origin story

A relatively young American breed, the Bobtail began with Yodie in the late 1960s and was steadily refined over the decades to create a healthy, sweet-natured cat with a wild appearance.

Late 1960s
Yodie is discovered in Arizona. His descendants are crossed with Siamese and domestic tabbies.
1989
The breed is officially recognized by the The International Cat Association (TICA).
2006
The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) grants full championship status to the American Bobtail.
Gifts for Bobtail Lovers

Celebrate the wild wilderness companion

Express your admiration for this incredibly devoted, short-tailed breed with these premium curated keepsakes.

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Elegant necklaces and customizable rings shaped with the classic Bobtail silhouette.
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Illustrations, custom mugs, and pillows showing off their distinctive short tail look.
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Super soft t-shirts, hoodies, and baseball caps for American Bobtail parents.
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Hardcover notebooks, greeting cards, and stickers featuring artistic cat prints.
FAQ

Common questions about American Bobtails

Are they related to the Japanese Bobtail?
No. The Japanese Bobtail and the American Bobtail are completely distinct breeds. Their short tails are caused by entirely different genetic mutations.
Can they really walk on a leash?
Yes! Because of their calm demeanor and highly curious, dog-like personality, they are among the easiest cat breeds to harness-train.
Are Bobtails highly vocal?
They are not overly vocal, but they love to speak in delightful chirps, trills, and clicks when they are excited or greeting you.