Personality and 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
Care
Nutrition
Grooming
Exercise
Health
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.
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.
As this is a large, active breed, you may wish to teach your cat to accept toenail clipping from a young age. This will help cut back on damage to your clothing, your furnishings, and your skin. You may also wish to teach your kitten to accept toothbrushing.
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.
Inside, Kurilian Bobtail cat requires multiple scratching posts, at least one sturdy cat tree, and plenty of exciting toys. These cats appreciate window seats that provide them with a view of the outdoors, particularly if a bird feeder is involved.
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.
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.
The Breed Standard
Eyes
Legs & Paws
Tail
The Breed Standard
Body
Head
Ears
Coat
Color
FAQ
How much does a Kurilian Bobtail cat cost?
Kurilian Bobtail cats cost between $700-$3,000.
How big does this breed cat's cat get?
Kurilian Bobtail cats tend to be medium in size. A fully grown Kurilian Bobtail cat might weigh between 4 - 5 kg or more and range in height anywhere from about 25 - 36 cm inches tall.
How long do Kurilian Bobtail cats live?
The Average lifespan for Kurilian Bobtail is 14-20 years.
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