American Bobtail

American bobtails are relatively low-maintenance cats with basic grooming and exercise routines.

Grooming

You can expect to brush your bobtail once or twice per week to remove shed hair and skin and keep their coat shiny and healthy. Twice a year, bobtails will shed more than usual due to seasonal changes, and they may require more frequent brushing during these times.

In any breed of cat, poor dental hygiene can lead to periodontal disease, so it's important to brush your bobtail's teeth at least once per week. Supplementing with plaque-controlling treats can help maintain dental health, but should never be the only method of dental hygiene you use on your cat.

Exercise

American bobtails are docile cats with moderate energy levels and minimal exercise requirements. They do appreciate daily playtime, which should be around 30-60 minutes per day. Like dogs, bobtails love to play with toys, fetch small items like faux mice, and try their paws at puzzle games. Many American bobtails enjoy going on leisurely leashed walks, too.

Health Problems

American bobtails are hearty cats that have no breed-specific health conditions. Of course, that doesn't mean that every American bobtail will remain perfectly healthy throughout their life. Bobtails with no tail may experience spinal issues leading to fecal incontinence. If you're buying a bobtail from a breeder, ensure they have a written health guarantee, which can offer some assurance against spinal issues.

Appearance

The American bobtail breed can vary in appearance, but they generally boast a relatively large, sturdy build that is well-muscled and powerful-looking. They have a broad head, wide eyes, and alert ears.

The most prominent feature of this cat is their short tail, ranging in length from under an inch to a few inches long. According to the breed standard, the tail should be long enough to be visible above the back when held straight up.

The cat's hair may be short and dense or long and shaggy. Ideally, it is brownish or gray with tabby-type patterning that resembles a wild lynx or bobcat.

Diet and Nutrition

Your American bobtail's diet will depend on a variety of factors, including age, activity levels, and general health, but in general, they should be fed high-quality, high-protein food. If you'd like to add some variation to your bobtail's diet, you can try mixing some wet food in with the dry food a few times per week.

Obesity is a common problem in all breeds of cats, so it's important to follow feeding guidelines closely and give treats in moderation. If you're not sure how much to feed your bobtail, your vet will be able to provide some helpful guidelines.