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The Scratching Post
Japanese Bobtail Longhair
The Japanese Bobtail is a medium size cat with elegant lines and well-developed muscles. Though this breed looks similar to the Manx, they are not related. The nose is long and well defined. The ears are large, upright and set well apart. The eyes are large and round giving this breed a wide and alert expression. The legs are slender and long with the back legs being much longer than the front with oval paws. The unusual tail of this breed extends about two or three inches. The tail is carried upright when the cat is relaxed. No two tails are ever alike, and should be no longer than three inches. The hair on the tail is usually thicker and longer than elsewhere on the body. The hair grows in all directions giving the tail a pom-pom or bunny appearance. The longhair is medium long to long, soft and silky without a noticeable undercoat. The cat may have a ruff. The coat will lie fairly flat and flow into ?pantaloons? on the hind legs.
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Temperament
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The Japanese Bobtail is an active, intelligent and talkative cat. Their voices are capable of nearly an entire scale of tones; some say that they can even sing. This breed adores human contact and will normally speak when spoken to. They like to carry things in their mouths and are masters of the pounce. They adore a good game of fetch as well as riding on your shoulders. They make great traveling companions and adjust well to other animals and children.
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Height, Weight
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Male: 7-10 lbs. ; Female: 5-7 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The Japanese Bobtail does not seem to suffer from genetic conditions or other health problems. This breed is virtually disease resistant. They usually have kittens that are extremely large for newborns. Bobtail kittens are quick learners. They prove this by walking and getting into mischief at an early age.
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Living Conditions
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Keeping your cat indoors and neutering or spaying are essential elements for maintaining a healthy companion, and most importantly will extend the life expectancy of your cat.
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Exercise
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The Japanese Bobtail is naturally active and enjoys playing with its owner. They should be provided with lots of toys, and enjoys both indoor and outdoor exercise.
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Life Expectancy
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9-15 years
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Grooming
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The Japanese Bobtail requires little grooming. Weekly brushing is advised. This is a relatively non-shedding cat.
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Origin
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The Japanese Bobtail was brought to Japan from China somewhere between the sixth and tenth century. Cat enthusiast Emperor Ichijo is thought to have requested the cat. In 1968, Judy Crawford, an American living in Japan, sent two of her Bobtails to Elizabeth Freret, a breeder in the United States. The first Bobtail was shown in 1969. The breed?s popularity continued to grow when Crawford returned to the United States with her 38 Japanese Bobtails. The breed was recognized in America in 1978.
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