Japanese Bobtail. The Japanese Bobtail or Temple Cat as it is otherwise known was originally a shorthair cat but today longhaired versions are now recognised for show. Read how the Japanese Bobtail originated and much more...

History

From written records it seems certain that the domestic cat first arrived in Japan from China or Korea at least one thousand years ago.

The Japanese Bobtail breed has certainly existed in Japan for many centuries; it is featured in many ancient prints and paintings.

In what was once Siam, cats were enshrined with members of royal houses. When a ruler was buried, his favourite cat was entombed with him.

The roof of the burial chamber had holes in it, through which the cat could escape, taking the soul of the monarch with it. Such sacred cats were treated like royalty for as long as they lived.

Description

The Japanese Bobtail is a natural breed and does indeed come from Japan. The coat of the Bobtail is soft and of medium length. There is no undercoat. This cat exhibits very little shedding. Grooming is a light daily combing or brushing.

The Japanese bobtail can wear any coat pattern except pointed and ticked, though solids, bicolours and particolours are preferred. The Mi-ke pattern (pronounced mee-kay and meaning "three fur"), which displays red, white and black colours (tortoiseshell), remains the most cherished.

When a cat was born with these colours the animal was considered lucky. In Japanese Art the Mi-ke was often painted with one paw upraised as a gesture of goodwill.

The tail is unique not only to the breed, but to each individual cat. Like our fingerprints, no two tails are ever alike. The tail must be clearly visible and is composed of one or more curves, angles, or kinks or any combination thereof.

The furthest extension of the tail bone from the body should be no longer than three inches. The direction in which the tail is carried is not important.

The tail may be flexible or rigid and should be of a size and shape that harmonizes with the rest of the cat.

When the Bobtail is standing you will notice the bend which is a natural feature of this cat.

This breed was originally only known as a shorthair but a longhaired version originated and in 1993 was recognized for show.

Characteristics and Temperament

Japanese Bobtail cats are active, intelligent, talkative cats that like to carry things in their mouths, and most enjoy a good game of fetch.

They are intelligent and are well suited to indoor life so long as they have plenty of attention and play.

Japanese Bobtails are are effectionate by nature, are good travellers, adjust to dogs and other animals, and are especially good with children making an ideal family pet.