The Kurilian bobtail cat originated less than 200 years ago on the Russian Kuril Islands. It is possibly a cross between Japanese bobtail cats and natural cats from the island, specifically the Siberians. They are friendly, active and very intelligent cats, they tolerate changes and people of all ages well. Also, as they are very good hunters of fish, they do not dislike water, so bathing can be added to brushing in the hairball prevention routine.
On the other hand, they are very strong and in good he alth, so, with correct preventive medicine, they can have a very high life expectancy, reaching even 20 years, if they do not develop early incurable diseases. Continue reading this article on our site to learn about the origin, characteristics, character, care and he alth of the Kurilian bobtail cat
Origin of the Kurilian bobtail cat
Kurilian bobtail cats are small cats that come from Russia, from the Kuril Islands, an archipelago that extends from the island Japan from Hokkaido to Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. The sovereignty of these islands is disputed between Russia and Japan, but it seems more likely that these cats descended from the Japanese bobtail, although they are more muscular and larger, possibly by crosses with cats living on the islands, especially the Siberians.
After World War II, Russia managed to gain control of the islands and Russian soldiers took some Japanese bobtails, which were raised as house cats. Today, Kurilian bobtail cats are still seen on the streets of the islands, showing high hunting capabilities, especially fish, great resistance to low temperatures and high physical strength.
The breed reached the European continent, however it is still quite unknown in America. In fact, in the United States it does not exceed 100 copies. Finally, the FIFE recognized it in 2004 and, since 2012, the TICA has accepted it to exhibit in competitions for titles.
Characteristics of the Kurilian bobtail cat
Kurilian Bobtails are medium to large cats. They measure from 25 to 30 cm in height and the females weigh 4-5 kg and the males 5 to 7. The most striking features of the breed and what gives the name, in addition to its place of origin, is its short tail of less than 12 cm and with pompom-like appearance No two queues are the same. His head is large and has wide cheekbones. The eyes are walnut-shaped, rounded at the bottom and oval at the top. The ears are medium, triangular and directed somewhat forward. They have a very muscular and strong body, with a broad chest and also very strong and robust limbs. Its coat is silky, tangle-free and very soft, which makes it very pleasant to the touch. It can be short or medium
Kurilian bobtail cat colors
The coat of Kurilian bobtail cats can be of the following types:
- Solid colors, such as black, white, blonde, or silver.
- Tabby or tabby.
- Carey or tricolor.
Kurilian bobtail cat character
Kurilian Bobtail cats are very intelligent, playful and active Unlike other cats, they adapt very well to new situations and environmental changes, so they do not cause so much stress. Also, as they are used to hunting fish, they carry in their genes the not being afraid of water, so they may even like bathing. They are also very good hunters of rodents and small reptiles, so, possibly, you will have the house clean of pests if you live with a specimen of this breed.
They are cats very sociable They get along well with all kinds of people and will not hesitate to go out to say hello and try to play with visitors. They will also greet you every day when you get home. On the other hand, they are very easy to train, due to their high intelligence. All these characteristics make the perfect coexistence, but it must be taken into account that, being such active and playful cats, without environmental enrichment, especially when you are not at home, or without playing with them enough, they can become frustrated and depressed, worsening their he alth and, in general, their quality of life.
Kurilian bobtail cat care
As we have just commented, one of the main aspects of taking good care of these cats is getting them to release their energy For this we can resort to play, interactive or catch toys, races, scratchers, etc. The important thing is that they never get bored during the time when they are not resting. On the other hand, their diet should be especially rich in proteins In general, cats require high amounts of this macronutrient obtained from animal tissue and essential for maintaining their he alth, but in this breed they are even more important to preserve their muscles, their strength and their physical shape.
In terms of hygiene, the Kurilian bobtail can have semi-long hair, in which case it is essential to brush more frequently than that required by short-haired specimens. Regular brushing will help remove dead hair, preventing it from being ingested during grooming and thus helping to prevent the formation of hairballs. The risk of these balls is that they accumulate in the digestive tract, which can have consequences as serious as obstruction, whose treatment sometimes has to be surgical intervention. On the other hand, since these cats do not normally dislike water, you can try bathing your cat to remove even more dead hair, which makes it easier for them to shed, as well as preventing the formation of hairballs. Continuing with hygiene, the Kurilian Bobtail's ears should also be cleaned and checked for any abnormal discharge, bad odor, or other signs of infection or parasitism.
Kurilian Bobtail Cat He alth
These cats have a life expectancy of between 15 and 17 years, although it is not uncommon for them to reach 20, always that they take care of themselves correctly and do not suffer from hereditary diseases or tumors. Like any other cat, the Kurilian Bobtail can contract infectious diseases, such as immunodeficiency, rhinotracheitis or chlamydia. Many of them are prevented by vaccination. The presence of parasites, capable of transmitting diseases such as bartonellosis or leishmaniasis, can also be prevented by following the deworming guidelines established by the veterinarian. The veterinary check-ups, vaccination and deworming are basic he alth measures, even if our dog does not have access to the outside. In addition, although Kurilian Bobtails are strong cats and are not predisposed to any particular disease, care must be taken with the following pathologies:
- Allergy: atopic dermatitis, allergy to flea bites, feline eosinophilic complex or adverse reaction to food seem to be the most common allergic diseases common in these cats.
- Oral diseases: infections, gingivitis or chronic gingivostomatitis are among the most frequent pathologies that affect the mouth of the Kurilian bobtail.
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis: Like many cats that are raised in cattery or live in communities, they are at increased risk of being infected by the coronavirus feline enteric, which can mutate and develop the devastating feline infectious peritonitis, with a dry form in which pyogranulomas form in various organs and a wet form characterized by the production of abdominal and/or thoracic effusions.
- Feline leukemia: viral infectious disease transmitted especially by saliva that can cause blood disorders, immune-mediated diseases and tumor processes that become deadly.
Where to adopt a Kurilian bobtail cat?
The adoption of a Kurilian Bobtail in Spain may be possible as it is part of Europe. Ask at refuges and protectors or, if you don't get any results, look in advertisements and rescue associations on the internet.
On the other hand, do not reject the possibility of adopting a cat with characteristics similar to those of the Kurilian Bobtail in terms of personality and appearance. There are many who wait for another opportunity at the shelters.
