Japanese Bobtail is a domestic feline breed. It has lived in Japan for a long period of time.
Made prominent by its short tail, Japanese Bobtail is an ancient
feline that is thought to have resided in Japan for many centuries.
There are numerous interesting legends associated with the beautiful
feline, which is considered to be a symbol of good fortune in Japanese
folklore. Japanese Bobtails were first imported to United States in
late nineteen sixties. Following some years of formal breeding,
acceptance of its status as a distinct breed came in the seventies.
Both long and shorthair variants of the cat are recognized.
Registration came late in United Kingdom, only at the turn of twenty
first century.
Japanese Bobtails have an elegant semi-foreign
build with good muscular development. They have a square rather than a
rectangular profile and are not tubular like some oriental breeds. Head
is triangular with slanted, oval eyes, well developed cheek bones and
large, widely set ears. Coat is seen in a number of colors in van,
tabby and tortoiseshell patterns. Both short and semi-long hair
versions have a smooth, silky feel to them. Longhaired cats' tails are
fluffier and are like pom-poms. Legs are long, with hind legs being
longer than fore legs.
Though they also have a short tail,
Japanese Bobtails are quite different from the Manx and American
Bobtail cat. Their genetic mutation is different. Body structure and
profile is also unique in case of the Japanese cat. Even the short
plumed tail is distinct, with each individual cat having a singular
tail size and appearance.
Japanese Bobtails are reputed to be
very brave and fearless creatures. They are not afraid of other animals
and mingle easily with dogs and other large pets. Energetic and active,
these sturdy cats are good athletes and spend lots of time daily
playing with their toys. Quick to mature and develop from birth,
Japanese Bobtails are among the most confident and self-assured feline
breeds..
