American Bobtail Cat Overview
The American Bobtail is a medium-to-large cat breed recognized for its naturally short, “bobbed” tail and rugged, wildcat-like appearance. Despite their untamed look, they are known for their affectionate, gentle, and highly intelligent nature, often compared to dogs for their playful and loyal temperament.
Lifespan
The American Bobtail cat is a generally healthy breed with a typical lifespan of 13 to 15 years. With proper veterinary care, balanced nutrition, and an engaging environment, some may live even longer. Their hardy genetic background contributes to their longevity, though owners should still monitor for conditions such as hip dysplasia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and polycystic kidney disease (PKD).
Check out our American Bobtail cat age calculator to find out your cat’s age in human years.
Origin and History
The American Bobtail cat is a relatively new breed, first developed in the late 1960s.
- The breed began with Yodi, a short-tailed tabby kitten found on an Indian reservation in Arizona by John and Brenda Sanders.
- When Yodi bred with the couple’s domestic color-point cat, the kittens inherited his short tail.
- Breeders then introduced other naturally short-tailed domestic cats to broaden the gene pool, leading to today’s American Bobtail — a healthy and diverse breed recognized by major cat associations.
American Bobtail Cat Appearance
The American Bobtail is muscular and sturdy, resembling a scaled-down wildcat.
- Tail: Their signature trait — a short, expressive tail ranging from 1–4 inches. It may be straight, kinked, or curved.
- Body: Medium-to-large with a rectangular stance and strong hind legs.
- Head: Broad, wedge-shaped head with prominent cheeks and a distinct brow.
- Coat: Comes in both short and longhair varieties, featuring a dense, resilient double coat. All colors and patterns are allowed, though wild markings are especially prized.
- Growth: They are slow-maturing, often taking up to three years to reach full size.
American Bobtail Cat Temperament and Personality
Despite their wild appearance, American Bobtails are among the most gentle and family-friendly cats.
- Dog-like traits: Known as the “golden retrievers of the cat world,” they enjoy fetch, leash walks, and learning tricks.
- Affectionate: Strongly bond with their humans and show sensitivity to emotions, making them excellent therapy cats.
- Sociable: Adaptable and friendly with children, other cats, and even dogs.
- Quiet communicators: They are not very vocal, often using chirps, clicks, and trills rather than loud meows.
American Bobtail Cat Health and Care
The American Bobtail is generally healthy and hardy, with a lifespan of 13–15 years.
- Health concerns:
- Some issues may arise from the tail mutation (spinal problems in completely tailless cats).
- Possible predisposition to hip dysplasia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and polycystic kidney disease (PKD).
- Grooming: Moderate maintenance — brushing 1–2 times per week (more during seasonal shedding).
- Exercise: Moderate energy level — enjoys playtime, puzzle toys, and interactive activities to keep them mentally and physically engaged.
American Bobtail Cat Facts Table
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States (1960s), starting with a short-tailed kitten named Yodi |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Body Type | Muscular, rectangular stance, strong hind legs |
| Head Shape | Broad, wedge-shaped with prominent cheeks and brow |
| Tail | Naturally short (1–4 inches), can be straight, kinked, or curved |
| Coat Types | Shorthaired and longhaired, both with dense double coat |
| Coat Colors | All colors and patterns accepted, “wild” markings favored |
| Eye Shape | Large, almond-shaped |
| Maturity Rate | Slow to mature, takes up to 3 years to reach full size |
| Temperament | Gentle, affectionate, intelligent, dog-like, adaptable |
| Communication | Quiet; uses chirps, trills, and clicks more than meows |
| Family Suitability | Excellent with children, other cats, and even dogs |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate; enjoys fetch, leash walks, and puzzle toys |
| Lifespan | 13–15 years (sometimes longer with good care) |
| Health Concerns | Possible spinal issues in tailless cats, hip dysplasia, HCM, PKD |
| Grooming Needs | Brushing 1–2 times per week (more during shedding seasons) |
American Bobtail Kitten
Searches for “American Bobtail kitten” usually come from people who want to know what these cats are like in their early months. Kittens are known for being playful, highly intelligent, and quick to form strong bonds with their families. Since the breed matures slowly, an American Bobtail kitten may take several years to reach its full size, making their kitten-like energy last longer than in many other breeds.
American Bobtail Cat Price
The phrase “American Bobtail cat price” is often searched by future owners trying to budget for their new pet. The price can vary widely depending on pedigree, coat type, color, and whether the cat comes from a show line or is intended as a companion. On average, the cost ranges from $600 to $1,200, though rare colors or show-quality kittens can go much higher.
Black American Bobtail
The search for “black American Bobtail” reflects interest in this breed’s striking color variations. While the American Bobtail comes in many shades and patterns, a solid black coat paired with the breed’s wildcat-like body gives it a dramatic, panther-like look. This variation is especially admired for its sleekness and mysterious charm.
American Bobtail Breeders
Many people search for “American Bobtail breeders” when looking for a responsible source for a kitten. Ethical breeders prioritize health, temperament, and genetic diversity while ensuring kittens are properly socialized before adoption. Potential owners are encouraged to research breeders carefully, check for references, and confirm adherence to breed standards from recognized cat associations.
American Bobtail Cost
Beyond the initial purchase price, searches for “American Bobtail cost” often relate to the long-term expenses of owning one. This includes food, regular veterinary care, vaccinations, grooming supplies, toys, and pet insurance. Over a cat’s lifetime, the total cost of ownership can easily reach several thousand dollars, making it important for owners to plan for more than just the upfront adoption fee.
American Bobtail Cat – FAQ
Are American Bobtail cats popular in the US?
Yes, American Bobtails are popular in the United States, though they are not as common as breeds like the Maine Coon or Siamese. Their unique wildcat-like look and affectionate, dog-like personality have made them increasingly sought after, especially among families looking for a playful and loyal companion.
Are American Bobtail cats hypoallergenic?
No, American Bobtails are not hypoallergenic. Like all cats, they produce dander and saliva proteins that can trigger allergies. However, some allergy sufferers report milder reactions compared to heavier-shedding breeds, especially with regular grooming and cleaning.
Are American Bobtail cats rare?
Yes, American Bobtails are considered somewhat rare, especially outside North America. Their relatively recent development as a breed (in the late 1960s) and limited number of specialized breeders contribute to their rarity. Finding a kitten often requires joining a waitlist with a reputable breeder.
How long do American Bobtail cats live?
American Bobtails typically live 13 to 15 years, with some reaching 18 years or more when given proper care, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary attention. Their broad genetic background has helped them remain a generally hardy breed.
How much are American Bobtail kittens?
The price of an American Bobtail kitten usually ranges from $600 to $1,200, depending on pedigree, coat type, and breeder reputation. Show-quality kittens or those with rare colors may cost upwards of $1,500. Adoption from a rescue, if available, is generally more affordable.
Summary
The American Bobtail is a distinctive and versatile cat breed known for its wildcat like appearance, naturally short tail, and affectionate, dog-like personality. First developed in the late 1960s, the breed has grown in popularity for its intelligence, playfulness, and strong family bonds. With a lifespan of 13–15 years, these cats are generally healthy, requiring only moderate grooming and regular veterinary care.
In short, the American Bobtail is a breed that combines the look of the wild with the heart of a loyal, loving house cat — a perfect balance of beauty, intelligence, and companionship.