The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Distinctive Feature

American Bobtail

Bobbed tail on a sturdy, medium-large frame

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
Medium
Vocality
Low
Health sensitivity
Low
Grooming
Medium
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
Low

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Double
Coat length
Medium

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want a cat where the bobbed tail changes the whole outline

Not ideal

  • Prefer the classic long-tail line as part of the breed silhouette

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often playful and involved—likes participating in household routines more than watching from afar.

Handling & social style

Many do well with interactive bonding; their shorter tail can make cues subtler, so invitation-based handling tends to read better than fast grabs.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Mostly standard cat upkeep; the practical differentiator is tail/hip handling awareness because the short tail is the defining trait.

Environment & space

No special housing needs—prioritize normal climbing and play options over anything breed-specific.

Daily routine

Standard grooming; keep a steady activity outlet so weight doesn’t creep on a sturdy frame.

Health sensitivities

Treat this as a line-variability breed—choose documented family history and a clear breeder health approach over “the tail is cute” selection.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

United States

Background

Developed in the U.S. to preserve a naturally occurring short-tail look in a consistent domestic breed. The bobbed tail is the identity feature; everything else is meant to stay broadly moderate.