Japanese Bobtail

Overview

Overview of Japanese Bobtail

Making their mark in Japan and the inspiration behind the Maneki Neko or lucky cat, the Japanese Bobtail is sure to bring you good fortune! Legend has it that in the 1600s in Japan, there was a royal decree to release all cats to fend off rodents that threatened silkworm populations. After eliminating the rodent problem, these kitties went from street cats to revered icons, inspiring Japanese art throughout the ages by appearing in numerous silk scrolls, woodblock prints (especially in the Edo period) and, more recently, the inspiration behind Hello Kitty! You know that you're looking at a Japanese Bobtail (sometimes nicknamed 'Jibit') by their short bobbed or fluffy pom-pom tail and symmetrical head that appears as an almost perfect equilateral triangle. Jibits come in many colors like solids and dilutes but the most sought after is a calico with splashes of red and black known as Mi-Ke (meaning 'triple hair). Unlike the Manx or the American Bobtail, Japanese Bobtails are not no tail cats, just small tailed cats. They always have a tail, and all of their tail vertebrae - their vertebrae are just smaller. No two Jibit tails are alike!

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Japanese Bobtail

Renal Failure:

Is a common issue in many cats and a Japanese Bobtail is no different. It may be caused by a number of conditions that affect the kidneys and surrounding tissue. If your kitty is suffering from kidney failure, they may have difficulty eliminating waste, maintaining normal electrolyte balance and hydration, and blood pressure.

Recommendations for Renal Failure in Japanese Bobtail Cats:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Japanese Bobtail

Cancer:

Sadly, many cats develop cancer in their lifetime. Lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma, mast cell tumour, and bone cancer are fairly common among our feline friends. If caught early, you can still manage their symptoms and help them maintain a good quality life.

Recommendations for Cancer in Japanese Bobtail Cats:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Japanese Bobtail

Diabetes:

Is a condition that Japanese Bobtails may be susceptible to. Diabetes in cats occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin to balance blood sugar levels or blood pressure. If left untreated, it may lead to unexpected weight loss, low appetite, vomiting, and excessive thirst.

Recommendations for Diabetes in Japanese Bobtail Cats:

Personality

The Japanese Bobtail is a medium-sized (5-10 lbs) kitty with powerful hind legs that are slightly longer than their front legs to help their sense of balance and make up for their short tail. These bunny-tailed kitties really enjoy human companionship, so they can even learn tricks and beckon you with a good game of fetch! The Japanese Bobtail’s playful personality makes them great companions for all humans, even young children. Jibits lack an undercoat, so the longhaired variety just needs a weekly brushing while the shorthaired variety does fine as a self groomer. These refined and elegant kitties are capable of an impressive range of tones - it almost sounds like they are singing! If there were an American Idol for cats, Japanese Bobtails would shine! So if you’re looking for a beautiful, expressive kitty who has inspired centuries of artwork and can bring you good luck, a Japanese Bobtail may be the cat for you!