This breed has at least a millennium-long history from Japan. The Japanese Bobtail is considered to be a good omen bringing good fortune to its owners.
An averagely built feline weighing from 2.5-4 kilos, it is known to have a fit yet flexible body, elongated body and higher back legs. The definitive feature however, is a short 1 to 3 inches long winding “pompom” tail with kinks/curves. Short hair, soft and silky to the touch. Scarce undercoat is present. Coat colours can be either tabby or solid, all colours permitted except for chocolate, lilac and colour point. Bicolour and tortie cats are considered of higher value especially of the Mi-Ke – the black-red-white coloured cats are the most sought after. Spots must be vivid and sharp, short hair, soft and silky to the touch. The Japanese Bobtail shorthair coat is soft and silky where a scarce undercoat is present. This breed is also available in a semi-longhair version. What they lack in tail length they make up for in mobility, playfulness and energy. It’s jumping and climbing skills are to be reckoned with, so are the skills of hunting and swimming.
It’s character is very affectionate and would choose a single family member as a master. The Japanese Bobtail would live very close to another feline choosing one from two. They live nicely in a smaller flat and are known for their habit of raising a paw while sitting. The Japanese Bobtail are some of the easiest cats to have at home, they should only be brushed on a weekly basis except for the molt season, which is not known as intense. When it comes to feeding, they definitely require a high protein diet to keep fit with good fats. This breed is blessed with healthy genes and very resistant to many diseases. The average lifespan is 15-18 years.