Japanese Bobtail

It is a breed of domestic cat with an unusual bobtail. Its bobtail closely resembled the tail of a rabbit than that of other cats. It is native to Japan and Southeast Asia though now it is distributed worldwide. It is known in Japan from many centuries and frequently appears in traditional art and folklore. This breed has many colors. Predominately white calicoes are favored by the Japanese and cat fanciers. However, other colorations are also accepted by breed standards. 

Japanese Bobtail classification

Let’s have a look at its classification: 

Japanese Bobtail price

It is one of the oldest natural breeds and symbolizes good luck. Once, the distinctive, short-tailed felines were owned by Buddhist monks.  Today, they are very popular. But it does not mean that it is highly expensive. The average cost of these bobtail cats lies between $800 to $1500.

Japanese Bobtail personality

It is an active, loving, sweet, and highly intelligent breed. They like to be with people and play endlessly. They learn their name easily and quickly respond to it. They are social and feel best in the company of people. They adjust themselves according to the environment and like to live with all other cat breeds. They prefer the other bobtails company. They make long-lasting friendships and so are called clannish. They have sweet, soft, and melodious voices and use this to persuade people. They are simply good for families. They are very good pets for children due to their affectionate nature. They are very smart, loyal, and are great companions. 

Japanese Bobtail colors

It is well known due to its distinctive feature of having a bobtail. In addition, it is known for its tricolor calico pattern called “mike”. Other popular colors are white and black or white and red. It also comes in solid colors and tortoiseshell and tabby patterns. Some cats have sepia-tone coats. Vividly contrasting, bold, and dramatic markings are a trademark of this breed. Japanese bobtail eye color is blue or odd-eyed (each eye has a different color).

Japanese Bobtail names

They are beautiful and exotic. Their names are an excellent choice for your kitten, especially when you consider their unique name meanings. To pick their name, you do not have to live in Japan because their names are popular around the globe. Here, I am suggesting you some of the best names if you are going to have them as a pet. Male bobtails names include Akio, Arata, Ayumu, Dai, Daiki, Eiji, and many more. Similarly, female bobtails names include Asami, Chika, Chiyo, Emi, Emiko, Airi, and many more. 

Japanese Bobtail vs Manx

The most notable similarity between them is the lack of a tail. Both breeds have longer hind legs. There are many clues with the help of which you can identify your cat as either a Manx or a bobtail.  First, check out the tail because Manx cats almost have no tail and a smooth spine while on the other hand, bobtails have visible tails that extend no more than 3

inches in length. Manx cats have a robust, round frame while bobtails have a more muscular appearance and appear taller than Manx cats. Manx cats have circular, rounded faces while bobtails have visible cheekbones and their heads are triangle shaped. If you are still confused about what type of kitten you have got, its face shape should cinch it. 

Japanese Bobtail adoption

If you are looking for unique, energetic, and people loving kittens for adoption then this cat might be the perfect choice for you because this breed has a special personality and appearance. It is an attractive cat and is very playful. They are highly adaptable and do well with children, other pets. Its price might be high but once you know its personality because definitely you will be ready to whip out your wallet and adopt one. 

Japanese bobtail aggressive

This breed usually gets along with all other cats and even with dogs. However, this again comes to the personality because every animal has a different personality. It seems to be a risk of an initial personality clash. So they can be aggressive or anxious but eventually, learn to tolerate others in time because they love the company of other pets.

Japanese Bobtail behavior

Living with this breed is quite easy because they adapt well to their surroundings. They are not lapping cats but will be close to you, sleeping next to you in the bed. They need some perches to exercise because they can jump high. They like toys like feather teasers and jump high to catch it. They usually exercise enough to maintain weight. Honestly speaking,

members of this breed are intelligent and active and have human-oriented nature. They are easier to train to perform tricks. Mostly, they enjoy learning human-mediated activities like playing fetch, walking on a harness, and leash. They have a sweet voice and use this to persuade people.  

Japanese Bobtail diet

They do not require any special diet or feeding regimens. Simple, they need quality food and a well-balanced diet. When it comes to their diet, keep in mind that they are closely related to the fiercest of felines, lions, and tigers. They do not eat the same way as dogs and humans do. They need to eat a high percentage of meat for fat and protein. They usually

develop severe weight problems by eating carbohydrates that can lead to diabetes. So, they should avoid carbohydrates at any cost. Their favorite food includes fish. They need to have a balanced diet that will reduce the formation of hairballs inside their stomach. 

Japanese Bobtail facts

Let’s explore some of its interesting facts together:

1. They have large patches of black, yellow, and white fur
2. Its short tail looks like it is bent and broken
3. they have a colorful origin story and are good looking
4. they are often described as “singing cats” because they communicate with people and other animals by using a variety of melodic chirps and meows
5. Their hind legs are longer than their forelegs and so, they are great jumpers
6. They are loyal, smart, affectionate, confident, and athletic
7. They are highly social, intelligent, and interactive
8. These pets are well suited for a family or multi-pet home
9. They enjoy the company of others and so will dislike being left alone

Japanese Bobtail life expectancy

They are typically healthy and disease resistant. When it comes to their life expectancy, one thing should be kept in mind that their lifespan depends on how you take care of them. Their survival depends on diet and care. They have an average life span of 9 to 15 years. But these cats can live up to 18 years. 

Japanese Bobtail genetics

Its short tail is a body type mutation caused by the expression of dominant genes. The tail is shortened and kinked. The gene is homozygous, so commonly all kittens born to even one parent will have bobtails as well. The cat that is heterozygous for the gene may have kittens with or without the trait. Its gene is not associated with skeletal disorders, so

causes a reduced number of trait vertebrates as well as some fusion of tail vertebrates. Its tail is not unique to this breed but also to each individual cat as well. So, for a true bobtail cat, the tail must not exceed three inches from the point of extension to the tailbone. 

Questions & Answers

How much is a Japanese Bobtail?

It is one of the oldest natural breeds and is good looking. It costs around $75-$150 to adopt it. Conversely, it can be expensive to buy a Bobtail cat from a breeder. The average cost of these bobtail cats ranges from $800 to $1500.

Are Japanese Bobtails rare? 

Yes, these cats are rare. There are a number of Bobtail cat breeders, most of them are based in North America with some in Europe and at least one in Japan, yet this breed remains rare.

Can a Japanese Bobtails have a long tail?

No, they do not have a long tail. Actually, this is the characteristic that differentiates it from all other cats. If you are looking for a Japanese bobtail, always keep in mind that its tail should not exceed three inches from the point of extension to the tailbone.

Are Japanese Bobtail cats hypoallergenic?

These cats are definitely not considered hypoallergenic. However, they shed less as compared to many other cats and also produce less dander. So, you may have less allergy symptoms.

Are Japanese Bobtail cats born without tails?

No, they are not born without tails. It seems that they do not have a tail because its gene is recessive. But they do have tails that are typically about three inches in length.