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The American Bobtail is a relatively new and uncommon breed
of cat most notable
for its stubby "bobbed" tail about half the length of a normal cat's tail. This
is the result of a
genetic mutation affecting the tail development, similar to that of a Manx.
The cat is not related to the Japanese
Bobtail despite the similar name and physical type — the breeding
programs are entirely unrelated and the gene causing the mutation is entirely
different.
American bobtails are a very sturdy breed, with both short or longhaired
coats. Their coat is shaggy rather than dense or fluffy. They can have any
colour of eyes and fur, with a strong emphasis on the "wild" tabby appearance in
show animals.
According to legend, bobtails are the result of a crossbreeding between a
domestic
tabby cat and a
bobcat. Although this IS genetically possible, the unusual tail is actually
the result of a random genetic mutation. The breed was recognised by the
International Cat Association in 1989.
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