Japanese Bobtail: The Pom-Pom-Tailed Lucky Cat

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Few cats carry as much cultural weight as the Japanese Bobtail. Its curled, fluffy tail looks like a rabbit's, and its image appears in the beckoning cat figures that are said to bring good luck. Behind the lucky charm is a lively, intelligent cat with a talkative nature and a long history in Japan.

Origins

Short-tailed cats have lived in Japan for centuries, and they appear in old art, folklore and temple records. The breed is believed to have arrived from Asia more than a thousand years ago. In 1968 a breeder in the United States imported Japanese Bobtails, and the breed was soon accepted by cat registries. The short tail comes from a recessive gene, so both parents must carry it. See the Manx for another tailless breed with a different genetic story.

Appearance

Japanese Bobtails are medium-sized, slim and muscular, with long hind legs. Typical weights are 7 to 10 pounds for males and 5 to 8 pounds for females. Features include:

• A tail of one to four inches, curved or kinked, with fur that fans out like a pom-pom
• A silky, medium to long coat with little undercoat
• High cheekbones and large oval eyes
• Long, slim legs, with hind legs longer than the front
• Many colors, though the tri-color mi-ke, or calico, is the most iconic

Each tail is unique, like a fingerprint.

Temperament

Japanese Bobtails are energetic and social.

• Chatty. They have a soft, musical voice and talk to their owners.
• Playful. They like to leap, chase and play fetch.
• Intelligent. They learn routines and tricks, and can learn to walk on a harness.
• Friendly. They usually get along with children, cats and dogs.
• Adaptable. They cope with travel and new situations better than many breeds.

They enjoy company and do best in an active household. Provide energetic outlets. See cat zoomies explained.

Grooming

The coat is easy to maintain.

• Brush weekly, with a soft brush or comb, more often for the longhaired type. See how to brush a cat.
• Bathe occasionally, if needed. See how to bathe a cat.
• Trim nails and clean ears. See how to trim cat nails and how to clean a cat's ears.
• Brush teeth. See cat dental disease.

Health

Japanese Bobtails are generally healthy and long-lived. Concerns are few, but include:

• Dental disease
• Heart disease, like many breeds
• Genetic variation, if the breed has a small gene pool in some regions

Unlike Manx cats, they are not known for spinal problems linked to the short tail. Still, ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vaccines. See the cat vaccination schedule, and use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

Living with a Japanese Bobtail

Provide plenty to do.

• Tall cat trees and shelves. See how to choose a cat tree.
• Interactive play and puzzle feeders. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.
• Company, either human or another pet
• Safe access to water play, such as a pet fountain

They are curious and quick, so cat-proof the home. See cat-proofing your home.

Is a Japanese Bobtail right for you?

The breed suits people who enjoy a talkative, busy, affectionate cat, and families with children and pets. It may not suit people who want a quiet lap cat, or who are away for long hours.

The lucky cat connection

The maneki-neko, or beckoning cat, often shows a calico Japanese Bobtail with a raised paw. The image symbolizes good fortune in Japanese culture. Many owners enjoy the tradition, and the breed's friendly nature fits the legend.

A day with a Japanese Bobtail

Mornings often begin with chatter and a trip around the house. Midday may bring a nap on a high perch, and evenings are for play. Japanese Bobtails like to join in, whether that means carrying a toy to you or watching you cook. Offer a wand toy, a puzzle feeder and a sturdy tree, and give them time with the family.

Questions to ask a breeder

Ask about the line's health, whether the cats are tested for heart disease, what tail variety is typical and how the kittens are socialized. Request records, and visit in person if possible. A responsible breeder keeps kittens until they are well socialized, offers a health guarantee and is happy to answer questions about the breed's lively personality.

Common mistakes

Owners sometimes underestimate how much stimulation this breed needs. A bored Japanese Bobtail can become noisy or mischievous. Provide daily play, rotate toys and consider a feline companion if you work long hours.

Finding one

The breed is uncommon. Choose a breeder who shows the parents, health-tests and raises kittens in a home. Be cautious of sellers who promise a specific tail shape before kittens are old enough to be assessed. Compare temperament with the American Shorthair for a more laid-back alternative.