The Japanese bobtail cat is ceramic and the traditional Japanese symbol of good luck. They are modeled after the famous and favored bobtailed cats of Japan. It seems certain that the domestic cat first arrived in Japan from China or Korea at least one thousand years ago. The Japanese Bobtail breed has certainly existed in Japan for many centuries; it is featured in many ancient prints and paintings.
In 1968 the late Elizabeth Freret imported the first three Japanese Bobtails to the United States from Japan. The longhair Japanese Bobtail has existed for centuries in the orient as have the shorthairs.
The Japanese Bobtail is a naturally occuring breed that has existed in Japan for at least a thousand years. It is distinguished by its naturally short tail, which can resemble a rabbit's tail. No two tails are ever alike. However, the tail should not be handled roughly and no attempt should be made to "straighten" it. The kinks and curves are a natural part of the tail.
The most commonly seen Japanese Bobtail pattern is the tri-color, or mi-ke (white with red and black) good-luck pattern, but other colors and patterns are also accepted.
This breed is recognized in both shorthaired and semi-longhaired varieties. Their coats are silky and need minimal grooming.
The Japanese Bobtail is an outgoing, friendly, active cat. They are intelligent and talkative, even entering into entire conversations with "their" people. Although they like to talk, they are not noisy and do not have loud voices, though they may make an amazing range of sounds.
All Breeds of Cats
Japanese Bobtail
