Japanese Bobtail Cats
The earliest written evidence of cats in Japan indicates that they arrived from China at least 1,000 years ago. In 1602, Japanese authorities decreed that all cats should be set free to help deal with rodents threatening the silk-worms. Buying or selling cats was illegal, and from then on, bobtailed cats lived on farms and in the streets. Japanese Bobtails thus became the "street cats" of Japan.
Japanese Bobtails were accepted for Championship status in Cat Fanciers' Association in 1976. In 2001 the first registered litter of Japanese Bobtails was born in the UK under the Solstans prefix.
History of Japanese Bobtail Cats
Physical Characteristics
The Japanese Bobtail is a medium sized cat, well muscled, but straight and slender rather than massive in build. The unique short tail resembles a bunny tail with the hair fanning out to create a pompom appearance which camouflages the underlying bone structure. The head is triangular in shape. The high cheekbones and unique set of eyes lend a distinctive Japanese cast to the face.
The Shorthair Japanese Bobtail has a soft silky coat of medium length which appears flat rather than fluffy, giving it the look of porcelain. The Longhair Japanese Bobtail have bellie shag and definite britches on the hind legs. The tail leaves no doubt as to whether the cat is short or long haired.
Temperament
The Japanese Bobtail is an intelligent, fun, playful, affectionate, spirited, beguiling, elegant, beautiful cat. Their outgoing and loving temperament make them excellent pets. They retain their playfulness into adulthood. They travel well and adjust easily with other pets in the household.
Japanese Bobtails love water, retrieve, talk Japanese, and are extremely intelligent. They are not very big on jumping, but some do Their soft voices are capable of nearly whole scale tones; some people say they sing. They adore human companions and they always speak when spoken to.