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Cats · Japan

Japanese Bobtail

Lucky-charm cat with a pompom tail, lively, sociable and talkative. Size Medium, life expectancy 12–16 years, energy High. Expect CHF 1'000 – 1'800 to buy and CHF 60–110 / month upkeep.

See available Japanese Bobtail
Japanese Bobtail
At a glance
Size
Medium
Energy
High
Life expectancy
12–16 years
Estimated budget
CHF 60–110 / month
Indicative price
CHF 1'000 – 1'800
Origin
Japan
Weight
3–5 kg
Coat
Short or semi-long
Coat colour
Often tricolor ("mi-ke")

The profile at a glance

Energy
Affection
With children
With other animals
Easy to train
Grooming
Noise level
Tolerates being alone
Pros
  • Lucky charm with a pompom tail
  • Lively, sociable and talkative
  • Playful
Things to watch
  • Demands attention
  • Energetic
  • Talkative
01

Temperament

Lucky-charm cat with a pompom tail, lively, sociable and talkative.

02

Daily needs

Play, interaction, presence.

03

Health & care

Very hardy.

04

Ideal for

Families, lively households.

Origin & history

The Japanese Bobtail is a cat originating from Japan, where it has been present for many centuries and is deeply rooted in local culture. Its most striking feature is its short, bushy tail, similar to a pompom, due to a natural genetic mutation. Long considered a good-luck charm, it is said to have inspired the famous Maneki-neko, the beckoning cat. Lively, intelligent and very sociable, it is renowned for its playful and talkative nature. Its tricolor coat, known as "mi-ke," is particularly appreciated and symbolic in Japanese traditions.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the Japanese Bobtail have a short tail?

Its pompom tail results from a natural genetic mutation specific to the breed, and not from human intervention. Each tail is unique in shape.

Is the Japanese Bobtail an active cat?

Yes, it is lively, playful and intelligent, with a great taste for play and interaction. It enjoys learning tricks and retrieving objects.

Is the link with the Maneki-neko real?

The Japanese Bobtail is often associated with the famous Japanese good-luck cat, notably through its tricolor coat. This figure is an integral part of Japanese culture.

Similar breeds

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