Name: Japanese Bobtail (Shorthair)

Origin / History: The origin of the Japanese Bobtail can be traced back to at least the 10th Century when they arrived from China. The Japanese Emperor Ichijo (986-1011) owned 5 bobtail kittens. However, pictures and woodcuttings dating back to 600 AD suggest that the bobtail had arrived much earlier. In 1968 the first breeding program was established in America by Elizabeth feret. Championship status by the CFA was granted in 1976.

Characteristics: The Japanese Bobtail is a medium-sized cat that has a well-muscled body that is straight and slender rather than bulky. The head is triangular shaped with large oval slanted eyes and high cheekbones. The coat of the shorthair bobtail is medium in length and single coated. The most distinctive feature is its tail, which is 2-4 inches long with fanned hair resembling a pom-pom.

Personality: Playful, fun, charming and loyal, the Japanese Bobtail will make a great companion. The bobtail has also been described as intelligent, fearless, inquisitive, beautiful and elegant. This breed is extremely popular in Japan with many Japanese believing them to be a good luck symbol.