Pixie-Bob
The Good
- Incredibly loyal and devoted to their humans
- Excellent with children and family life
- Can be leash-trained for outdoor adventures
- Dog-like personality makes them unique companions
The Real
- Requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation
- Can be territorial with other pets
- Moderate to heavy shedding year-round
- Rare breed means higher costs and limited availability
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Pixie-Bob is a fascinating breed that brings a touch of the wild into Australian homes whilst remaining completely domesticated. Despite their striking resemblance to wild bobcats, these cats are 100% domestic and make wonderful family companions. What sets them apart is their remarkable dog-like personality – they're the kind of cat that'll follow you from room to room, learn to walk on a leash, and even play fetch in your backyard.
These medium to large cats are built for adventure, with their muscular frames and distinctive bobbed tails making them look like they've stepped out of the Australian bush. But don't let their wild appearance fool you – Pixie-Bobs are gentle giants who communicate through chirps and trills rather than demanding meows. They're particularly brilliant with children, showing patience that'd make any parent grateful.
For Australian families looking for something different, the Pixie-Bob offers the perfect blend of exotic looks and domestic temperament. They're active enough to keep up with busy households but calm enough to settle in for a Netflix session on those rainy Melbourne evenings. Their thick, woolly coat comes in beautiful brown tabby patterns with distinctive spots on the belly, and many sport those adorable lynx-tipped ears that give them their wild appearance.
History
The Pixie-Bob's story reads like something from a cat lover's dream. Back in 1985, American breeder Carol Ann Brewer purchased a short-tailed, polydactyl male kitten in Washington State, followed by a large rescue cat rumoured to be part bobcat. When this rescue mated with a neighbour's brown tabby, one kitten stood out – a spotted female with an unmistakably wild look that Brewer named Pixie.
Captivated by Pixie's appearance, Brewer spent the next several years seeking out cats with similar bobbed tails and spotted coats, particularly those rumoured to have bobcat ancestry. She eventually gathered 23 cats that became the foundation for the breed we know today. Brewer even trademarked the term "legend cats" to describe these felines she believed carried wild genes.
However, modern DNA testing has revealed that despite the persistent legends and their remarkable resemblance to North American bobcats, Pixie-Bobs are entirely domestic cats. The International Cat Association recognised them as a "native new breed" in 1993, meaning they developed naturally from domestic cats in a specific geographic region rather than being deliberately created through crossbreeding.
The breed gained championship status in 1997 and was later accepted by the American Cat Fanciers Association in 2005. Today, whilst still relatively rare globally, these remarkable cats are slowly making their way into Australian hearts, bringing their unique combination of wild looks and domestic devotion to families from Perth to Brisbane.
Traits & Characteristics
Pixie-Bob characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Pixie-Bobs are generally robust cats, thanks to the diverse gene pool used in their development. With proper care, they typically enjoy lifespans of 13-15 years, making them excellent long-term companions for Australian families. However, like all cats, they can be susceptible to certain health conditions that owners should monitor.
Common health concerns include kidney disease, which can affect cats as they age, and various forms of heart disease such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Dental problems are also common, so establishing a good oral hygiene routine with cat-specific toothpaste is essential. Obesity is another significant concern, particularly given the Pixie-Bob's large frame – it's crucial to maintain their muscular build without allowing excess weight gain.
Australian Climate Considerations: During summer months when temperatures soar above 35°C across much of Australia, ensure your Pixie-Bob has access to air conditioning or cooling mats, as their thick double coat can make them prone to overheating. In Brisbane's humid conditions, good ventilation is essential to prevent skin issues. Conversely, in cooler regions like Tasmania or the Blue Mountains, their woolly coat provides excellent insulation, though indoor heating during winter months is still appreciated.
For eastern Australian states, tick prevention is crucial, especially if you're planning outdoor adventures with your leash-trained Pixie-Bob. Regular vet checkups are essential, and given their rarity, ensure your veterinarian is familiar with the breed's specific characteristics, including their natural polydactyl toes and bobbed tails.
Pixie-Bobs don't have special dietary requirements beyond those of any domestic cat, but their size and activity level mean they need a well-balanced, high-quality diet to maintain their muscular build. Choose commercial cat foods that meet nutritional standards, focusing on high-protein options that support their active lifestyle.
Given their tendency toward weight gain and their large frame, portion control is crucial. Feed measured meals twice daily for adults, with kittens requiring more frequent feeding up to four times daily. The exact amount depends on your cat's age, weight, activity level, and overall health – your Australian veterinarian can help determine the right caloric intake for your individual Pixie-Bob.
Many owners find success with a combination of wet and dry food. Wet food helps ensure adequate hydration, particularly important during Australia's hot summers, whilst dry food can help maintain dental health. Interactive feeding options like puzzle feeders or foraging mats are excellent for this intelligent breed, providing mental stimulation whilst slowing down fast eaters.
Australian Considerations: During Perth's scorching summer days or Darwin's year-round heat, ensure fresh water is always available and consider adding extra wet food to increase fluid intake. In cooler regions like Canberra, you might find your Pixie-Bob requires slightly more calories during winter months to maintain body temperature. Always account for treats in their daily caloric intake – these should make up less than 10% of their total daily calories. Given their dog-like nature, many Pixie-Bobs enjoy training treats, making portion control even more important for maintaining their ideal weight.
Pixie-Bobs require regular grooming to keep their distinctive coat in top condition. Their thick, woolly double coat stands up from the body and has a slightly coarse texture that feels plush to the touch. Both longhaired and shorthaired varieties are moderate shedders, so expect to find some hair around your home year-round – invest in a good lint roller for those black work clothes!
Longhaired Pixie-Bobs need brushing two to three times weekly, whilst shorthaired cats can manage with weekly brushing sessions. Use a metal or rubber brush designed for your cat's coat length to prevent matting and remove loose fur. During seasonal changes, particularly in regions like Adelaide where temperature swings are dramatic, you may need to increase brushing frequency.
Many Pixie-Bobs show interest in water, so don't be surprised if yours wants to investigate your shower or bathroom sink. However, they don't typically require regular baths unless they've gotten into something messy during their outdoor adventures. Their thick coat provides excellent protection against Australia's varied weather conditions, from Melbourne's changeable climate to the Gold Coast's humidity.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Available in both short and long varieties, with longhair coats reaching up to 5cm in length
- Coat Colours: All shades of brown with a reddish tint preferred
- Coat Patterns: Distinctive tabby patterns with small to medium spots, particularly pronounced on the belly
- Hypoallergenic: No – they shed moderately and are not suitable for severe allergy sufferers
Don't forget about nail care – many Pixie-Bobs are polydactyl, meaning extra toes and therefore extra nails to trim regularly.
Here's where Pixie-Bobs truly shine – their dog-like intelligence makes them surprisingly trainable for cats. They're natural candidates for clicker training and can learn their name, basic commands, and even tricks. Many Australian owners successfully leash-train their Pixie-Bobs for adventures around the neighbourhood or secure bushland areas.
Mental stimulation is crucial for this intelligent breed. Puzzle feeders, interactive toys, and cat trees with multiple levels will keep them entertained when you're busy with work-from-home commitments. They particularly enjoy climbing and exploring, so consider investing in tall cat furniture that lets them survey their territory from up high – perfect for watching the action in busy households.
Pixie-Bobs love interactive play sessions, and you should aim for at least two 15-minute sessions daily. They often enjoy fetch games, making them unique among cats. Feather wands, laser pointers (always ending with a physical catch), and motorised toys can help burn off their considerable energy.
Socialisation Considerations: Start socialisation early if you're planning to introduce them to other pets. While they're generally good with dogs and excellent with children, they can be territorial with other cats. Gradual introductions work best, and some Pixie-Bobs prefer being the only feline in the household. Their loyalty to their human family is remarkable – they'll often choose one person as their special human whilst remaining friendly with everyone else.
For apartment dwellers in Sydney or Melbourne, ensure plenty of vertical space and consider a secure balcony setup or catio for safe outdoor time.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Pixie-Bob owner is someone who appreciates a cat with personality plus and the energy to match. They're ideal for active Australian families who enjoy outdoor adventures – think weekend camping trips to the Grampians or beach walks along the Sunshine Coast where a leash-trained cat can safely explore.
These cats suit households with children beautifully, as they're patient and gentle with kids whilst being robust enough to handle enthusiastic play. They're perfect for work-from-home professionals who want a loyal companion that won't be overly demanding but will happily follow you from your home office to the kitchen for lunch breaks.
Pixie-Bobs work well for both houses and larger apartments, though they need plenty of vertical space and enrichment. They're suitable for first-time cat owners who want something special, as well as experienced cat lovers looking for a unique personality. However, they're not the right choice for people wanting a low-maintenance lap cat or those who travel frequently for work.
They're particularly well-suited to single-pet households or families with dogs, as they can be territorial with other cats. If you're renting, ensure your lease allows pets, as their size and activity level make them unsuitable for properties with strict pet restrictions. They're perfect for empty nesters who want an engaging companion or young families who can provide the attention and activity these remarkable cats crave.
Interesting facts about the Pixie-Bob
Interesting Fact
Pixie-Bobs are one of the few cat breeds that allows polydactyl toes (extra digits) in their breed standard, with up to seven toes per paw
Interesting Fact
Despite persistent legends about bobcat ancestry, DNA testing confirms they're entirely domestic cats
Interesting Fact
They often communicate through chirps, chatters, and trills rather than traditional meows
Interesting Fact
Many Pixie-Bobs can be taught to play fetch like dogs
FAQ
Yes, Pixie-Bobs are considered quite rare, with only a handful of breeders worldwide. In Australia, they're particularly uncommon, so you may need to join waiting lists or travel interstate to find a reputable breeder.
Expect to pay between $1,500-$4,000 AUD for a Pixie-Bob kitten from a reputable breeder, with show-quality cats commanding higher prices. Remember to factor in transport costs if buying from interstate, plus ongoing expenses like premium food and pet insurance.
They can adapt to larger apartments with adequate vertical space and enrichment, but they're better suited to houses with secure yards. Their high energy levels and size make tiny city apartments challenging – they need room to climb, explore, and exercise.
Their thick double coat can make them prone to overheating in extreme heat. Ensure air conditioning or cooling mats during summer, particularly in northern regions. They're generally more comfortable in temperate areas like Melbourne or Adelaide than tropical zones.
Absolutely! Pixie-Bobs are renowned for their patience with children and make excellent family pets. They're gentle enough for toddlers yet playful enough to engage with teenagers, making them perfect for growing families.
Shorthaired varieties need weekly brushing, whilst longhaired cats require brushing 2-3 times per week. During seasonal changes or in humid coastal areas, you might need to brush more frequently to prevent matting and reduce shedding around the house.
They're generally excellent with dogs when properly introduced and fantastic with children. However, they can be territorial with other cats and may prefer being the only feline in the household. Early socialisation helps, but some simply prefer being top cat.
Yes! Many Pixie-Bobs take well to harness training and enjoy supervised outdoor adventures. This makes them perfect for exploring pet-friendly areas like Centennial Park in Sydney or the Botanic Gardens in Melbourne, always ensuring they're protected from local wildlife and traffic.