American Bobtail
The Good
- Exceptionally friendly with everyone, including strangers
- Adapts beautifully to various living situations
- Dog-like loyalty and devotion to their families
- Great therapy cat potential due to gentle nature
The Real
- Rare breed that's challenging to find in Australia
- Doesn't cope well with long periods alone
- Moderate to high shedding requires regular maintenance
- Extremely short tails can occasionally cause spinal issues
Gallery
Breed Overview
The American Bobtail is truly the "golden retriever of the cat world" - a sturdy, medium to large cat that combines wild good looks with an incredibly sweet temperament. Their most distinctive feature is their naturally short tail, ranging from 2.5 to 10cm long, which results from a harmless genetic mutation rather than any breeding manipulation.
These cats are absolute charmers who genuinely seem to understand human emotions. Whether you're dealing with Melbourne's unpredictable weather or settling into a Brisbane apartment, American Bobtails adapt remarkably well to different environments and lifestyles. They're the type of cat that will meet you at the door after a long day at work, tail wagging like a dog's.
What sets them apart is their incredible intelligence and problem-solving abilities - they've been known to escape from closed rooms and figure out complex puzzle toys. Despite their wild appearance reminiscent of a lynx or bobcat, they're gentle souls who excel as therapy cats and make wonderful companions for families with children. Their moderate energy levels mean they're content with indoor living but absolutely love interactive play and even leashed walks around the neighbourhood.
History
The American Bobtail's story begins in the 1960s with a serendipitous holiday discovery. John and Brenda Sanders were vacationing near an Indian reservation in Arizona when they found a short-tailed brown tabby male they named Yodie. Intrigued by his unusual tail, they brought him back to Iowa, where he mated with their seal point Siamese female, Misha.
The resulting litter included kittens with short tails and exceptionally sweet personalities, sparking interest in developing this as a distinct breed. Early breeding programs incorporated Birman, Himalayan, and Himalayan/Siamese crosses, though many of these original bloodlines have since disappeared.
The 1970s saw the first breed standard written by Mindy Schultz, but progress stalled due to limited resources. The real breakthrough came in the 1980s when dedicated breeders took a more flexible approach, moving away from the original pointed longhair blueprint to embrace cats of all colours and patterns, focusing instead on the distinctive bobbed tail and wonderful temperament.
This new direction proved successful, with breeders using unregistered domestic cats with desirable bobtail traits rather than established pedigreed lines. This approach created an incredibly diverse gene pool and the healthy, robust cats we see today. The breed gained official recognition from major cat associations, including TICA in 1989, though it remains relatively rare worldwide, including here in Australia.
Traits & Characteristics
American Bobtail characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
American Bobtails are generally robust cats with excellent health, thanks to their diverse genetic background from unregistered domestic cats rather than intensive pedigreed breeding. However, there are a few considerations for Australian owners to keep in mind.
The primary health concern relates to their signature feature - cats with extremely short tails or no tails may occasionally experience spinal issues that can lead to fecal incontinence. When purchasing from a breeder, always ensure they provide a written health guarantee addressing potential spinal problems.
Like many breeds, American Bobtails can be susceptible to polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential, and pet insurance can help manage unexpected costs - expect to pay $30-60 monthly for comprehensive coverage in Australia.
Australian Seasonal Care: During our scorching summers, particularly in places like Adelaide or western Sydney where temperatures soar above 40°C, ensure your Bobtail has access to air conditioning or cooling mats. Their double coat provides excellent insulation but can make them susceptible to overheating. Watch for excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy during heat waves.
Winter care varies dramatically across our continent. In Canberra or the Blue Mountains, where temperatures can drop to 5°C, provide warm bedding and consider pet-safe heating pads. However, in tropical Darwin or Cairns, focus on humidity control with good ventilation and possibly a dehumidifier during the wet season. Their weather-resistant coat adapts well to most Australian climates, but they'll always prefer indoor comfort to extreme conditions.
American Bobtails require high-quality, protein-rich food to maintain their muscular build and active lifestyle. As they can weigh up to 7kg when fully grown, portion control is crucial to prevent obesity - a common problem that can exacerbate any potential spinal issues related to their short tails.
Choose premium Australian pet food brands that meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) nutritional standards. Adult cats typically need 200-300g of quality dry food daily, divided into two meals, though this varies based on age, activity level, and individual metabolism. Active cats living in larger Brisbane homes with secure yards may need slightly more than apartment-dwelling cats in Melbourne's inner suburbs.
Consider mixing wet food with dry kibble 2-3 times weekly to add variety and increase moisture intake - particularly important during Australian summers when dehydration risks increase. Wet food also helps with weight management as it's typically lower in calories per volume.
Fresh water should always be available, especially crucial during our hot summers. Consider a water fountain to encourage drinking, as many cats prefer moving water. During 35°C+ days in Perth or Adelaide, monitor water bowls more frequently as they'll drink significantly more.
Avoid overfeeding treats, which should comprise no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Interactive puzzle feeders work wonderfully for this intelligent breed, providing mental stimulation while slowing eating pace. Consult your local vet about appropriate portion sizes, as Australian veterinary practices often provide excellent nutritional guidance tailored to our climate and lifestyle.
American Bobtails come in both short and long-haired varieties, and your grooming routine will depend entirely on which type you choose. Short-haired Bobtails are relatively low-maintenance, requiring brushing once or twice weekly to remove dead hair and distribute natural oils. Long-haired varieties need more attention, particularly during Australia's seasonal changes.
The breed sheds moderately to heavily year-round, with increased shedding during spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) as they adjust their coats for temperature changes. Brisbane owners dealing with high humidity might notice more frequent shedding, while those in drier climates like Adelaide may see less dramatic seasonal variation.
During peak shedding seasons, daily brushing prevents matting and reduces the tumbleweeds of cat hair floating around your home. Invest in a quality slicker brush and metal comb - expect to pay $30-60 for professional-grade tools from Australian pet stores. A de-shedding tool can be invaluable during moulting season, though use it sparingly to avoid damaging the coat.
Bathing isn't frequently necessary unless your cat gets particularly dirty or you're dealing with excessive shedding. Their weather-resistant double coat naturally repels dirt, but when needed, use lukewarm water and cat-specific shampoo.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Short to medium-long, with dense double coat providing weather resistance
- Coat Colours: All colours accepted, though "wild" colours like brown, grey, and black are preferred in show standards
- Coat Patterns: Any pattern acceptable, with tabby markings resembling wild lynx being most desirable
- Hypoallergenic: No - they shed considerably and produce normal levels of Fel d 1 protein
Regular nail trimming every 2-3 weeks and weekly teeth brushing complete the grooming routine. Start these habits early, as Bobtails are generally cooperative with handling when properly socialised.
Here's where American Bobtails truly shine - their dog-like intelligence makes them exceptionally trainable compared to most cat breeds. They excel at learning tricks, coming when called, and even walking on a leash, making them perfect for Australian cat owners who want a more interactive feline companion.
Start leash training early if you're planning walks around your neighbourhood. Many Bobtails love exploring secure areas like Centennial Park in Sydney or the Botanic Gardens in Melbourne. Use a well-fitted harness rather than a collar, and begin with short indoor sessions before venturing outside.
Their problem-solving abilities mean they need substantial mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviours. Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and rotating toy selection keep their minds engaged. They particularly enjoy interactive play that mimics hunting - feather wands, laser pointers, and motorised mice are excellent choices.
Social enrichment is crucial as they're naturally people-oriented cats. They adapt well to households with regular visitors and actually enjoy meeting new people, making them ideal for social families who entertain frequently. If you work from home - increasingly common across Australia - they'll happily supervise from a nearby perch.
Create vertical spaces with cat trees or wall-mounted shelves, as they enjoy surveying their territory from height. Their slightly longer hind legs make them excellent jumpers, so ensure any high perches are secure. Interactive play sessions of 15-20 minutes twice daily help burn energy and strengthen your bond. Many owners report their Bobtails fetch small toys like dogs, providing endless entertainment for both cat and family.
Who is an ideal owner?
American Bobtails suit a remarkably wide range of Australian households, but they're particularly perfect for families who want a cat that's genuinely part of the family dynamic rather than an independent housemate. They thrive with people who work from home or have flexible schedules, as they genuinely dislike being alone for extended periods.
They're excellent for families with school-age children in suburbs like Castle Hill or Frankston, where secure backyards allow for supervised outdoor exploration. Their patient, gentle nature handles the chaos of school holidays beautifully, and they often become a child's devoted companion. However, they're equally content with empty nesters in Noosa or retirees in Adelaide who appreciate a loving, interactive companion.
First-time cat owners often find Bobtails ideal because of their adaptable, forgiving nature and dog-like responsiveness to training. They're also wonderful for people transitioning from dogs to cats, as their loyalty and interactive behaviour feels familiar while introducing typical feline independence.
Apartment living works well, particularly in pet-friendly complexes in Melbourne's inner suburbs or Brisbane's riverside developments, provided you're committed to daily play sessions and mental stimulation. Their moderate exercise needs don't require a yard, but they do need engaged owners who provide interactive entertainment.
They're less suitable for people who travel frequently for work or prefer very independent pets. FIFO workers or those regularly away overnight might find their Bobtail becomes anxious or destructive. Similarly, if you're seeking a low-maintenance lap cat that's content to sleep 20 hours daily, this active, engaging breed might feel overwhelming.
Interesting facts about the American Bobtail
Interesting Fact
No two American Bobtails have identical tails - each is as unique as a fingerprint, with different lengths, curves, and kinks
Interesting Fact
They're often called the "golden retrievers of the cat world" due to their loyal, friendly disposition and trainability
Interesting Fact
Their naturally bobbed tails result from a dominant gene, meaning breeding two bobtailed cats will always produce bobtailed kittens
Interesting Fact
Many American Bobtails enjoy car travel and have been popular companions for truckers and RV travellers across America
FAQ
Absolutely! Despite their wild appearance, American Bobtails are exceptionally friendly and sociable with everyone, including strangers. They make outstanding family companions and are often used as therapy cats due to their intuitive, gentle nature.
Yes, their distinctive short tails are completely natural, resulting from a harmless genetic mutation. The tails typically range from 2.5-10cm long and each cat's tail is unique in shape and length.
Expect to pay $800-1,500 AUD for a registered American Bobtail from a reputable breeder, though they're quite rare in Australia. You might find mixed breeds with bobtail characteristics at shelters for standard adoption fees of $200-400.
Yes, they adapt well to apartment life provided you can offer daily interactive play and mental stimulation. Their moderate energy levels and social nature make them excellent companions for urban living, though they don't like being alone for long periods.
Their double coat provides good insulation but requires careful management during extreme heat. Ensure air conditioning or cooling mats during 35°C+ days, particularly in inland areas like Dubbo or Alice Springs, and always provide fresh water.
Short-haired varieties need brushing 1-2 times weekly, while long-haired types require daily brushing during spring and autumn shedding seasons. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks can help manage their moderate to heavy shedding.
Excellent with both! Their patient, gentle nature makes them wonderful family cats, while their social intelligence helps them get along beautifully with other cats and dogs. They're particularly good with respectful children who enjoy interactive play.
They're affectionate without being clingy - they enjoy cuddles and attention but aren't demanding about it. They're more likely to sit nearby or follow you around than insist on constant lap time, making them perfect for people who want loving but not overwhelming cats.