Although it tends to be confused with the American Bobtail, the Japanese Bobtail cat is a different breed whose only similarity is the short pom-pom tail. Thus, this is one of the main characteristics of the feline breed that we show below, a breed with an incredibly positive temperament, cheerful, active and very playful.
The Japanese bobtail is one of the most appreciated cats in Asian culture. In fact, it is considered the "good luck cat" and in this article you will discover why. Read on and find out on our site all the characteristics of the Japanese bobtail, its care and most popular legends.
Origin of the Japanese Bobtail
Incredible as it may seem, the Japanese bobtail cat arose naturally. His short tail is due to a mutation caused by a recessive gene. Now, when exactly the Japanese bobtail appeared is still unknown today, precisely because it was born as a product of natural crosses. It is also not known exactly if it was born in Japan, China or Korea, although studies suggest that it could have reached Japan from China because there are documents that place the arrival of this cat from China as early as the 6th century, more than 1 year ago! 000 years!
The Japanese bobtail is so present in Japan that we can see it in many places. For example, in the Gotokuji temple in Tokyo, we see frescoes on the walls in which these cats appear.
Japanese bobtail legends
What we do know are the legends that have arisen around this breed, and that is that the Japanese bobtail is one of the most appreciated in Japanese culture. The Japanese bobtail is related to good luck and, therefore, the existing legends revolve around it. Does the name " Maneki-Neko" ring a bell? Well, it's a Japanese bobtail! Today we relate it to the typical seated cat-shaped doll that has a raised paw that constantly moves. Of course, this stems from a legend that, in the 17th century, a very humble monk lived with his cat in a Tokyo temple, which was in terrible conditions. One stormy day, Naotaka Ti, a feudal with a lot of power, was trapped and decided to take shelter under a tree. Then, he saw the monk's cat with one paw raised and believed that he was signaling her to come to where he was, so he decided to leave his shelter to go towards the temple. At that very moment, lightning struck the tree. Neotaka Ti felt that that precious short-tailed kitten had saved her life and repaired his temple. In this way, the so-called "lucky cat" arose. However, it is not the only legend that exists about the creation of the Maneki-Neko, so do not miss this other article: "History of the Chinese lucky cat".
Of course, we also find in Japanese culture a legend that explains why the Japanese bobtail's tail is so short. Well, this legend explains that a cat caught fire in the flames of a brazier. Prisoner by fear, he ran out and set fire to all the houses he found on his way through the city, because they were built with wood. The flames spread so quickly that the entire city was completely burned. Therefore, the emperor made the decision to cut the tail of all cats to prevent such an accident from happening again.
Characteristics of the Japanese bobtail
The Japanese bobtail is a medium-sized cat, whose weight ranges from 3-5 kg, with females usually smaller than the males. The body of this breed of cat is usually longer than tall, thin, with developed muscles and a strong constitution. It is not a stylized cat, but it does appear elegant and slender due to its muscular bearing. Normally, the hind legs are slightly longer than the front ones, however, they are in proportion to the rest of the body, so that, standing up, the cat does not appear curved. For all these reasons, it is a fairly agile cat.
Continuing with the characteristics of the Japanese bobtail, its face forms an equilateral triangle, in which prominent and high cheekbones can be seen, as well as some very expressive eyes with oval shape All eye colors are allowed in this breed, although they are usually similar to the color of the coat. The muzzle is neither pointed nor flat, it is rather wide and rounded in the area of the whiskers. The nose, on the other hand, is slightly long and defined. The ears, on the other hand, are of medium size, they are upright and quite separated, although they are kept in proportion with the lines of the head. As a whole, the facial features of the Japanese bobtail suggest that it is a breed originating in Japan, but totally different from the rest of the oriental cats.
Now, if there is something that characterizes the Japanese bobtail above all other traits, it is its particular pompom-shaped tail Like this Therefore, this feline breed has a short tail, about 10 cm long, and completely covered with hair, similar to the tail of a rabbit. The body's coat, on the other hand, is shorter, although equally soft and silky. The Japanese Bobtail does not have an undercoat and it is not one of the cats that sheds the most, quite the opposite, it loses very little. Although it is common to see the short-haired Japanese bobtail, the truth is that we also find the long-haired Japanese bobtail variety. In this case, the cat is still considered short-haired, but it has a slightly longer coat and much more bulk on the tail.
Japanese bobtail colors
In this feline breed all colors are accepted and patterns except silver, gold, tabby (tabby) and dotted (pointed). Both the color of the nose and the color of the eyes are usually in harmony with the tone of the hair, so all are also accepted
Japanese bobtail character
The Japanese bobtail cat is characterized by having an affable, affectionate and sweet character Likewise, it is a catvery sociable that even approaches strangers. They also tend to get along with other animals, although this will also depend largely on the personality of the other animal and whether they have both been properly socialized.
On the other hand, the Japanese bobtail is an active, curious and intelligent cat, so he loves to play, investigate and learn new tricks. Of course, like many feline breeds, he is a quite territorial cat, especially when other animals come to his home. In the same way, he is very familiar and greatly enjoys the company of those he considers part of his nuclear family, both humans and cats or dogs. However, this does not mean that he does not need to spend time alone, since he also exhibits a certain degree of independence.
Finally, the character of the Japanese bobtail stands out for its enormous desire to express itself and communicate, especially with its human companions. Thus, it is a cat that usually meows a lot and that, in fact, has more variations and vocalizations than other feline breeds. So much so, that many caregivers say their cat sounds like it's singing.
Japanese bobtail care
The main care of the Japanese bobtail lies in its need for exercise, as well as in satisfying its curious instinct. For this reason, it is essential to offer it adequate environmental enrichment, with a variety of toys, scratchers with different heights and shelves. It is also recommended to make a gym for cats. Likewise, it is advisable to spend hours a day playing with the cat, both to keep it physically and mentally stimulated. During this time, it is advisable to play games that stimulate the cat to seek and run and games of intelligence.
Since the hair of the Japanese Bobtail is short, it does not need to receive more than one or two weekly brushings. As for the bathroom, as it happens in all feline breeds, it is preferable to leave it for when the animal is really dirty.
Finally, let's remember that the Japanese bobtail is an active and intelligent cat, so it is highly recommended to teach it new tricks whenever possible. For example, you can teach him to give his paw, to sit, to look for the ball, etc. The possibilities are endless and both of you will have a lot of fun. Of course, the sessions should not be very long or the cat will get stressed and bored. Don't miss this article in which we explain how to train a cat.
Japanese Bobtail He alth
The life expectancy of the Japanese bobtail is around 16 years It is a quite resistant feline breed, which does not present tendency to suffer from any particular disease, beyond the most common diseases in cats. So, with proper care and visits to the veterinary clinic, the Japanese Bobtail can be kept he althy and happy. Of course, it is also necessary to check the ears, nails, skin and mouth to detect any anomaly as soon as possible.
We place special emphasis on food, since if it is not of good quality or is not correctly rationed, the Japanese bobtail can develop obesity, especially if you don't get the exercise you need.
