Japanese Bobtails are very healthy and hardy little cats. Females usually weigh between 5 - 7 lbs, while males weigh 7 - 10 lbs. Their bodies tend to be slender, but muscular. You very seldom see a fat JBT. Their heads are triangular shaped with high cheek bones and oval eyes that are set on a slant, giving their faces an oriental look. Occasionally, kittens are born with blue eyes or "odd eyes" (one blue & one gold) making them higher priced because they are harder to come by.
Coat of many colors . . .
The JBT comes in a variety of colors, but the most popular by far is the mi-ke (mee-kay) meaning "three - furred" or tri-color, which is very similar to a brightly colored "Calico" cat. Another interesting genetic occurrence (generally not known outside of breeder circles) is the fact that all mi-ke kittens (as well as Calico cats) are females!
While bi-colors, or kittens with white and one other color (usually black or red) make up the majority, you can also get dilutes of these colors in blue & white or cream & white. Other possibilities are tabby & white or solids.
With Japanese Bobtails, you can choose your coat length - either soft short hair or silky long hair! Both varieties shed very little. The long hair doesn't have an undercoat so they will always remain silky!
Personality extraordinare . . .
Male or female, JBTs are famous for their entertaining antics and irresistible charm! They are very athletic, intelligent, outgoing, loving and unique! JBTs are also very vocal, invariably talking back to their owners when spoken to. They love to carry things in their mouths, so playing fetch is a great past time with these cats. Some JBTs even enjoy playing in water - go figure? They generally make good travelers, as well as adapting easily to other animals and children.
Last, but not least - check out that bobtail . . .
Like human finger prints, no two tails are alike! They may be composed of one or more curves, angles, or kinks. The furthest extension of the tail bone should be three inches or less from the body and can be flexible or rigid. Tail direction is insignificant. Most tails have slightly longer hair than the body and are said to resemble a pom-pom.
The genetic factor responsible for producing the Japanese Bobtail is totally different from the Manx. Unlike the Manx, the Japanese Bobtail gene is recessive and breeds true, without any related birth defects. The two breeds are not related in any way.
For additional information on the Japanese Bobtail please see the CFA Breed Profile web site: