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Need to Know
- Great for first-time cat owners
- Enjoys playing games and is active at home
- Playful and curious cat
- Sociable and dependent cat
- Slightly talkative cat
- Average build cat breed
- Requires frequent grooming
- A bit of both indoor and outdoor space
- Great family cat
- Can be regularly left alone for a few hours
- Great for a relaxed home
Personality
Playful and inquisitive, Japanese Bobtail cats love to engage with their owners. They love to be fawned over and cuddled and can spend their days climbing and playing. They’re human-oriented and get along well with other cats if introduced carefully.
The 8th century is when the Japanese Bobtail cat was first introduced in its native country, but the feline wasn’t seen outside of Japan until the 1960s when it came to America. The cats are supposed to be lucky and are often seen in Japanese art. They are the basis of the “lucky cat” icon.
Ideal owners will be ready to devote lots of time to engaging with and playing with the Japanese Bobtail cat breed. It’s ideal for owners to have a fenced-in yard or cat run as they love to climb and explore.
Although they are outdoor lovers, Japanese Bobtail cats are not made to live outdoors full-time. A secured, fenced-in yard or cat run is best for them. They love to climb and sit in sunny spots but don’t like wet or cold weather.
Japanese Bobtail cats are indoor cats that don’t require a ton of space but would enjoy access to a fenced-in yard or cat run outdoors.
There are two types of Japanese Bobtail cats: the shorthaired and longhaired versions. The shorthaired version only needs a quick brush, while the longhaired ones need a bit more TLC for their coats. They are capable of doing their own grooming.
Active and athletic, the curious Japanese Bobtail cat is an excellent climber who loves getting up as high as possible. They love exploring, so lots of opportunities for climbing are ideal. Look out for open cabinets; they love to get up high and push things over the edge. Lots of stimulating games and food-dispensing toys can keep them stimulated inside.
Families with older children who can understand a cat’s boundaries are best for the Japanese Bobtail cat. They are busy cats, which might not be ideal for families with small children or for people who are gone for long periods of time.
The cost of a Japanese Bobtail from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.
Learn more about feeding and caring for your Japanese Bobtail on Purina.
Did You Know?
- Japanese Bobtail cats are considered lucky cats.