Bobtail cats: characteristics, colors and care

Bobtail is a cat breed that is distinguished by its characteristic features and is unlike all other species. So, one of the characteristic features of bobtail is the fact that this breed of cats is endowed with hunting abilities. In addition, the described species of animals is quite devoted to its owner. What other features are characteristic of the cat breed Bobtail, what are the animals in nature, in what conditions should cats be kept? Look for answers to these and some other questions in our material.

The history of the Bobtail cat is shrouded in mystery. Therefore, it is impossible to say with certainty which country is the birthplace of the cat, as well as which breeds became the progenitors of the bobtail. If we talk about the approximate date of appearance, then modern scientists point to the end of the XX century.

Due to the fact that bobtail - this is a breed that has pronounced hunting abilities, and also has a peculiar color that is similar to the lynx’s coloring, this cat is often called “domestic lynx” by the people. Animals do not have large sizes - their body is quite compact, however, the body of the Bobtail is characterized by well-developed muscles and strong bones.

The distinctive anatomical characteristics of the animal include the structure of its paws: cats have wide paws of medium length, which can withstand intense loads. The shape of the head of an animal breed Bobtail in its outlines resembles a triangle. The cat has a round forehead, rather massive cheeks, an outstanding chin and a straight nose.

The ears of the bobtail do not differ in large sizes, according to this indicator they can be attributed to the average, but they are quite wide apart and have a slight forward inclination. The eyes also differ in their shape and section - they are almond-shaped. Their color can vary in a fairly wide range, but the yellow-green color is considered the most common.

The cat’s coat deserves special attention. It has a high density and a fairly thick undercoat. In addition, a unique feature of animal hair is that it is not exposed to moisture, does not get wet.

In nature, there are several varieties of bobtail cats. Consider the characteristics of each of them in more detail.

• American. Most often, American Bobtails are painted in a unique tabby nature. Due to this, in their appearance they resemble a wild lynx. This variety was born in the 1960s in the United States of America thanks to the efforts of breeders. Despite the fact that very little time has passed from that moment, the breed managed to spread throughout the world and win the love of many.

• Kurilsky. Already by the name itself, one can guess that the Kuril Islands are the birthplace of this animal. This breed was officially registered in 1991. A distinctive feature of animals is the tail - it is quite small in size, but very fluffy. Most often, animals have short hair and are smooth-haired, the undercoat is also quite weakly expressed. From the anatomical point of view, the structure of the head is of interest - it has a trapezoidal shape. The most pronounced character traits of animals are devotion and fidelity.

• Japanese. The Japanese Bobtail cat is an animal with a very short tail. It is believed that in ancient times such a cat lived in the palace of the Japanese emperor and was considered a real decoration there, was revered by all. By Japanese standards, this animal looks very attractive, so it was bred in many houses of the country. In addition, they were very useful to their owners - animals guarded the house from rodents. As for the nature and behavior of animals, they are distinguished by playfulness, activity and affectionate disposition. Among the representatives of the Japanese variety of Bobtail, you can find both long-haired and short-haired cats.

• Mekong (or Thai). The Mekong type of bobtail is distinguished by a high level of intelligence, sociability and contact with people, as well as a rather long period of its life. The color of the Mekong variety of cats resembles that of Siamese cats and is specifically called color point.

• Karelian. This breed is considered native Russian. The tail of the animal, like other representatives of this breed, has a very short length, which varies in the range from 4 to 13 centimeters.Karelian Bobtail is well adapted to the most diverse environmental conditions, so they can be wound up and kept in almost any climatic region of the globe.

Among the most popular colors of bobtail cats, the following colors can be distinguished: red, black, white.

The nature and habits of Bobtail animals are similar to the behavioral characteristics of dogs. The thing is that this breed is loyal and loyal to its owner. Cats are quite calm and flexible, they quickly and forever become attached to their owner.

Bobtail cats are excellent at contact with other cats and dogs, so if your house already has pets, then the representative of the breed described will become a great friend and partner, but in no case a competitor.

Representatives of the Bobtail breed get along well with children, animals will joyfully and willingly play with your kids, without showing aggression and anger regarding them. Generally speaking, by its nature, this breed is characterized by a high level of playfulness, as well as "talkativeness" - cats constantly meow and purr.

First of all, it should be said that veterinarians, scientists, as well as owners of animals of this breed note that bobtail is a simple variety of cats in maintenance and care. They do not require any complicated care procedures and are rather unpretentious in nature. In this regard, you should not be afraid to start this breed at home, you will definitely cope with it.

If we talk about the preferences of the animal, it should be noted that it loves large spaces. Therefore, if you are the owner of a small city apartment, then you should know that such conditions can hamper the bobtail and create uncomfortable living conditions for the breed. The best option for keeping the animal will be a private house with a personal plot, in such conditions the animal will be able to walk in the fresh air, and he will also be provided with an active pastime.

If we talk about arranging a place for a cat, then it should be noted that it should be equipped with such necessary and integral elements as: berth, tray, bowls for food and water. Ideally, the berth should be equipped in the form of a game complex, such cat houses are sold everywhere in zoological stores and markets. Do not forget to purchase a scratching post (this item will save your furniture and household appliances), as well as toys for entertaining a pet.

Particular attention should be paid to the tray. Choose a cat toilet that will have high sides. As a filler, you can use any of the products on the market: wood, silicate, etc. The only necessary condition is regular replacement of the filler of your choice and keeping the tray clean.

A necessary element of care for a furry pet is regular combing (2-3 times a week). This should be done with specially designed combs and brushes. Besides, the list of hygiene procedures must include bathing, which must be done at least once every 3 months. During bathing, do not use detergents intended for humans. You must purchase products made specifically for cats.

Hygienic care for the ears is carried out by wiping them with a wet cotton swab, and eyes should be wiped with a lotion specially designed for this purpose. (you can buy such a tool at a veterinary clinic).In order to avoid various diseases of the oral cavity, as well as inflammation of the gums, plaque and stone, the cat should periodically brush his teeth. For this, special means for animals should also be used.

Features breeding animals Bobtail may vary depending on the specific species. For example, many breeders report that breeding the Kuril subspecies is a rather difficult task that not every (even experienced) person can handle. On the other hand, Japanese Bobtail breeding is easy.

One way or another, but the process of breeding animals of this breed needs strict selection. The thing is that particular attention should be paid to the cleanliness of the breed, since any (even the smallest) deviations can cause the cat to not meet all the necessary standards.

Feeding and dieting is an integral part of the process of keeping a pet and caring for it. Bobtail cats, like any other pet, can be fed using 2 types of food: dry or natural. If you prefer ready-made mixtures and compositions, then take care that so that they are released by trusted and reputable manufacturers.

On the other hand, if you decide to feed the cat with natural food, it’s important to keep an eye on so that the animal’s diet is complete and balanced. Nutrition in its composition should contain all the vitamins and minerals necessary for the normal functioning of the cat's body.

In the diet of a Bobtail cat, you can include such products:

• fat free beef;
• Chicken
• turkey
• sea ​​fish without fat;
• cartilage;
• chicken stomachs;
• cereals;
• vegetables;
• dairy products;
• fresh grass.

In addition, do not forget that the animal must provide unhindered and constant access to clean drinking water.

There are no restrictions on choosing a name for your pet. In this sense, one should be guided only by one’s imagination and creative inclinations. As for the most popular names for bobtail, according to statistics, these nicknames are most often distinguished:

• Bonnie
• Billy;
• Kitty;
• Teri;
• Teddy;
• Aida
• Obi;
• Sweetie;
• Archie;
• Chad;
• Nessie
• Ollie.

Obviously, this list is not exhaustive, and you can pick up any other nickname at your discretion.

In the next video, you can get acquainted with the features of the Kurilian Bobtail breed.