The Fun-Loving Japanese Bobtail

As their name implies, the Japanese bobtails have short, bobbed tails. This was originally a natural phenomenon due to a recessive gene but now occurs through selective breeding. Their tail is almost like a feline fingerprint: each one is so visually distinct, with specific angles, hair direction, and turns.

The Japanese bobtail is a very active cat that loves to play and needs quite a bit of entertainment. Before adopting one, make sure you have enough time to spend with them during the day. Use a string, a piece of scrunched up paper, or a cat toy to entertain your furry friend. Letting them be outside to hunt or explore is also a good way to make them happy.

Unlike other types of cats, with the Japanese bobtail, you don't have to worry whether they like people or guests. As the bell rings, they will rush to the door to greet visitors. They are sociable animals that enjoy the company of humans, and they are always happy to relax and hang out with all family members. They also adjust easily to living in an apartment.

Japanese bobtails are very vocal cats. They have a delicate voice that they can modulate in many ways, and they're often very chatty. If spoken to, they will most likely reply, and you will be amazed at how good they are at communicating their needs to you. It almost feels like they have a huge vocabulary.

These very agile and active animals are easy to train. Their sociability makes them keen to interact with humans and to please their people, so a system of treats as rewards is enough to encourage them to do what you want. It's fairly simple to teach them tricks, given how much they love to play and be active. Additionally, they are very curious and love to explore new environments, and therefore aren't fussy travelers.

There are two types of Japanese bobtails: short-haired or long-haired. Luckily, grooming is equally easy for both coat types since neither type mats easily. Brushing them once a week is enough, and baths are rarely necessary. Like other cats, they will shed more during the warmer seasons, so expect to do some extra vacuuming during the summer.

Japanese bobtails don't have special dietary requirements, but it's better to discuss with your vet what to feed them. Cats' diet can vary a lot as they age, and neutered or spayed cats can be prone to weight gain. Listen closely to your vet's advice and feed your cat only high-quality cat food. In terms of wet food, Japanese bobtails tend to prefer fish, so you'll make them happy if you feed it to them at least once a week.

Changing the litter once every couple of days is a good habit that will prevent your cat from getting upset and relieving themselves somewhere else in the house. Also, always have a bowl of fresh water next to the food. Even better, consider getting a water fountain, since cats can be pretty fussy about clean water.

Japanese bobtails are a generally healthy breed, not prone to any particular disease. As they age, they can become more prone to kidney problems and urinary tract infections but typically have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. So, if you choose to adopt a Japanese bobtail, you can be sure that your friend will most likely be with you for a very long time.

Bobtails have a place of honor in Japanese culture. They were considered Imperial pets but soon became an integral part of Japanese society as protectors of grain supplies and silkworms. Legends and myths began to flourish about these cats, and they are considered today as a symbol of luck and prosperity. Maneki-nekos, the popular statues of fortune cats, are Japanese bobtails.