Kurilian Bobtail

Overview

Overview of Kurilian Bobtail

The Kurilian Bobtail is a natural breed from the Kuril Islands - an archipelago between Siberia and Japan, making this kitty the ultimate survival expert. The Kuril islanders have prized these cats for their impressive hunting skills. When hunting alone, they are known to catch salmon weighing up to 10-12 lbs just with their paws, and when hunting in packs, they can take down a small bear! For the past 200 years, the Kurilian Bobtail cat has been a well-kept secret by the islanders, and now that the secret's out, they have become one of the most popular cat breeds in Russia in recent decades. However, outside of their homeland, the Kurilian Bobtail is still relatively rare, primarily because these kitties only have one litter per year versus a typical cat that can have 4-5 litters per year. As their name suggests, their most distinctive feature is their fluffy pom-pom tail that can range from 2-10 vertebrae and comes in either a fish-hook shape (spiral), kinked (snagged), zigzag (whisk), or straight at the base with a hook at the end (delayed bobtail).

Fun fact about Kurilian Bobtails: Unlike many other male animals, Kurilian dad cats play an equal part in raising their little ones!

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Kurilian Bobtail

Nerve damage in cats:

May develop in a Kurilian Bobtail with two or fewer vertebrae due to their shortened spine. The incomplete formation of tail vertebrae may cause nerve and muscle fibers to be exposed leading to motor control issues like loss of bladder control.

Recommendations for Nerve damage in cats in Kurilian Bobtail Cats:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Kurilian Bobtail

Cancer in cats:

Like feline lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and bone cancer are fairly common. If caught early, kitties with cancer may be able to safely manage their symptoms and still maintain a good quality of life.

Recommendations for Cancer in cats in Kurilian Bobtail Cats:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Kurilian Bobtail

Feline Leukemia Virus:

Is a common infection in our feline friends and the Kurilian Bobtail is no exception! Kittens and unvaccinated cats are especially susceptible. Cats with Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) may be at a higher risk of developing secondary conditions such as anemia and lymphoma as well.

Recommendations for Feline Leukemia Virus in Kurilian Bobtail Cats:

Personality

A Kurilian Bobtail has a muscular build and can tip the scales at 15 lbs, so they are larger than your average kitty! Expect to brush out your Kurilian Bobtail cat weekly to keep on top of tangles and mats and remove loose hairs from their undercoat. These kitties are extremely adaptable and can live outside or inside. As pets, they get along great with children, dogs, and other pets, despite being exceptional hunters on their own. So if you're looking for a friendly, muscular kitty who will play nice with other pets and can catch you a salmon dinner, get a Kurilian Bobtail!