The American Bobtail: A Domesticated Lynx

There is a cat that resembles the American lynx, or bobcat. Today, we introduce the adorable American Bobtail, a cat that combines a wild side with a cute side.

The American Bobtail has a well-developed, fairly long body. Its hind legs are longer than its front legs, a trait it shares with the bobcat. Its coat is also water-resistant and can withstand any weather. “The American Bobtail has the appearance of a wildcat, with slightly almond-shaped ‘hunter’s’ eyes.” PetMD, a publication specializing in pets, stated in an article, “One of this cat’s distinctive features is its short tail.” The American Bobtail’s tail is straight but may have curves, bumps, or a slight kink.

True to its name, the American Bobtail emerged in the United States in the 1960s. Although the breed’s history is difficult to trace, it is said to have originated from a short-tailed brown tabby named Yodie and a female Siamese cat with dark brown markings. PetMD reported, “Yodie was taken in by John and Brenda Sanders of Iowa while they were vacationing near an Arizona Native American reservation.”

Birmans, Himalayans, and Himalayan/Siamese crosses were later added to the American Bobtail bloodline. The breed once nearly disappeared, but breeders launched an American Bobtail breeding program in the 1980s. A group of American breeders spared no effort to reestablish this short-tailed cat with a white face and paws. Ultimately, the American Bobtail was able to flourish again thanks to a Florida breeder who attempted to breed it with a bobcat.

Cat experts describe the Bobtail as intelligent, active, and affectionate. It likes sitting on laps and enjoys being petted. Because it gets along well with children and loves to play, it makes a suitable companion cat. It also greets its owner at the door when they return home. The American Bobtail is also clever enough to open and close cage doors.

If you are interested in an intelligent and curious companion cat, why not meet an American Bobtail?