Japanese Bobtail
An ancient breed in its native Japan, the Japanese Bobtail is a unique breed. Its name, bobtail, arises because the cat’s appendage is only four or five inches in length. It is also curled, with hair growing out of it in all directions, producing a fluffy, bobbed look. The Japanese Bobtail has the peculiar habit of raising one of its front paws when seated and Japanese folklore holds that this is a sign of good fortune.
Likewise, the Mi-Key variety (black, red, and white, or calico) is a symbol of particularly good luck. Although references to the cat date back over the centuries, it was not until after World War II that theca Was introduced to the rest of the world. Returning soldiers in the U.S. Armed Services brought several back homes with them. The Japanese Bobtail is an affectionate cat that attaches itself to the entire family. It’s also intelligent and inquisitive and demands attention and respect.
Play should be part of its routine. The most popular variety is the Mi-Key, although the Japanese Bobtail is also popular as Black, White, Red, Black-and-White, Red-and-White, and Tortoiseshell (black, red, and cream). It is recognized in any pedigree color, except the Siamese and Abyssinian patterns. The fur is soft and silky. The body is slender like the traditional Oriental build but with more muscling. The legs are long, with the hind legs slightly longer, and ending medium, egg-shaped paws.
The head is definitely triangular, with high cheekbones, a long nose, a well-developed muzzle, and large, oval eyes. The ears are medium-sized and rounded at the tips. Common standard faults are a round head, heavy muscling, too long a tail, or a tail that is not curved. Light daily brushing is recommended. Fish is the Japanese Bobtail’s preferred diet item — understandable in an island breed — and should be given to the car at least once each week. This is another comparatively rare breed and can cost a great deal.
See more: Burmese Cat