kurilian-bobtail
Playful, energetic, affectionate, friendly
Overview
Origin
Russia
Life Span
14-20 years
Height
10"-14"
Weight
8-12 pounds
Group
Medium to large short-haired and long-haired
Price
$700-$3,000
History
The Kurilian Bobtail is native to the Kuril Islands, which give it its name. The breed is also native to Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula and Sakhalin Island, which are located in the same geographic region.
The Kurilian Bobtail is a natural cat breed, meaning that it was developed by natural selection over time rather than via any kind of human manipulation. It has been gaining popularity throughout Russia since the middle of the 20th century. Still, the breed is not well-known outside of Russia, Europe, and Japan. So far, it has not been granted official recognition by the Cat Fanciers Association.
International cat breed registries are taking notice, though: Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe), The International Cat Association (TICA), and the World Cat Foundation (WCF) allow registration. Some clubs separate long and short haired Kurilian Bobtail cats into separate divisions while others allow them to be shown together.
Care
Nutrition
Kurilian Bobtail cats have no special nutritional needs, however it is best to offer a diet that is high in protein with limited carbohydrates. We recommend choosing fresh food or offering a commercial brand that lists real meat or fish as the number one ingredient.
Grooming
The shorthaired Kurilian Bobtail will appreciate a weekly brushing to remove dead hair and cut back on shedding, while longer haired Kurilian Bobtail cats require daily brushing to prevent mats.
Exercise
This breed is exceptionally athletic and will show off its ability to reach high speeds, make sharp turns, and climb as high as possible anytime it is given the opportunity. Kurilian Bobtail cats are highly trainable, and may appreciate learning how to walk on a leash so that they may safely enjoy the outdoors.
Health
The Kurilian Bobtail cat has a reputation for excellent health and can have an exceptionally long lifespan that extends up to 20 years. No known genetic issues are present.
Breed Standard
Body
The body is large, muscular, and well formed, with a generally athletic, well-balanced appearance. The chest should be broad, and the back may be slightly arched.
Head
The head is large, with a modified wedge shape that features rounded contours. It is widest at the cheekbone level.
Eyes
A Kurilian Bobtail cat's eyes are walnut shaped, rounder at the bottom, and more oval on top. They are set at a slight angle, between the base of the year and the tip of the nose. The eyes should be about one eye width apart. All eye colors are acceptable.
Ears
The Kurilian Bobtail has large, alert ears with elegant furnishings. Tufts may be present at the tips.
Color
All colors and patterns are acceptable. White is permitted and may include blazes, medallions, snowshoes, and any other white markings in any amount.
Coat
The coat may be short or of semi-long length. Long-haired Kurilian Bobtail cats should display a ruff at the neckline. The hair should have a soft, silky feel. Long-haired varieties should have a moderate undercoat.
Tail
The Kurilian Bobtail cat's tail is its most distinguishing feature. It may have one or more kinks and or turns, and may be stiff or flexible. The hair of the tail often disguises its shape and gives it the appearance of a pom-pom.
Legs & Paws
The legs should be of medium length, with the hind legs being longer than the front. The feet should be rounded. Long-haired Kurilian Bobtail cats should display tufts of hair between their toes.
Personality & Temperament
With a thick, luxurious coat that's often beautifully marked to resemble a wildcat's fur, the Kurilian Bobtail cat is renowned for having a sweet, gentle nature. Like the breed's name suggests, Kurilian Bobtail cats have short to ultra-short bobtails. Kurilians have one of a kind tails. Sometimes compared with a snowflake or a fingerprint, no tail is identical to another.
Big, active, and intelligent, the Kurilian Bobtail cat has an intense play drive and a natural love for hunting. This breed is renowned for its fishing skill as well, so families with aquariums and tiny pets such as hamsters and guinea pigs will want to ensure that these vulnerable animals are kept far from the Kurilian Bobtail, which views all small creatures as prey to be captured.
Kurilian Bobtail cats typically get along very well with other cats, dogs, and children. They love to play, and anyone who is willing to spend time engaged in rousing games will automatically get this cat's undivided attention.
Despite its hunting prowess and high activity level, the Kurilian Bobtail cat loves to snuggle with its favorite person. These cats do have a tendency to choose a preferred companion, and they are also known to give other family members the cold shoulder when it's time to choose a lap for TV time or settle in at bedtime.
Meet other bobtail cat breeds: Japanese Bobtail Cat and American Bobtail Cat