ShorthairMediumXPET ID: 0201F

Japanese Bobtail

A lucky, pom-tailed cat of lively charm.

Origin

Japan

Weight

6–10 lb (2.7–4.5 kg)

Lifespan

15–18 years

Coat

Short or long, soft, low-shedding coat

Energy

High

Where it comes from

Japan

Highlighted in the Japanese Bobtail's coat color on the map.

Overview

The Japanese Bobtail is instantly recognizable by its short, pom-pom-like tail, each one as unique as a fingerprint. Celebrated in Japanese culture as a symbol of good fortune, it is the inspiration behind the famous “beckoning cat.”

Active, intelligent, and highly social, the Japanese Bobtail is a playful, talkative companion that bonds closely with its family. It loves to fetch, climb, and interact, keeping a lively, engaged personality throughout its life.

History

The Japanese Bobtail has existed in Japan for centuries, depicted in traditional art and revered as a bringer of luck. Its distinctive bobbed tail results from a natural genetic trait, and the breed was formally recognized in the 20th century.

Temperament

ActiveIntelligentSocialPlayfulVocal

The Japanese Bobtail is lively, friendly, and interactive, generally good with children and other pets. It is intelligent and talkative, enjoys games like fetch, and thrives on companionship and mental stimulation.

Health to watch

Know the biology.
Get ahead of it.

Generally healthy

The Japanese Bobtail is a hardy, long-lived breed; its bobtail comes from a gene without the spinal issues of some tailless cats.

Obesity

Like all cats, it can gain weight; measured meals and its natural love of play protect its health.

Dental disease

Routine dental care helps prevent the periodontal issues common in cats over a long life.

General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every cat is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.

Care essentials

01

Enrichment

This active, clever breed thrives on interactive play, fetch, and climbing to stay engaged.

02

Coat

Both short and long coats are relatively low-maintenance, needing only regular brushing.

03

Companionship

The social Japanese Bobtail enjoys company and does well with interaction or a feline friend.

Care that fits the Japanese Bobtail.

XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.