The American Bobtail Longhair is a distinctive breed known for its unique bobbed tail, sturdy build, and friendly demeanor. Here's a compiled breed standard for the American Bobtail Longhair:
Breed Standard: American Bobtail Longhair
Head: The American Bobtail Longhair features a broad, modified wedge-shaped head with gently rounded contours. The skull is slightly domed, and cheeks are full. The muzzle is well-developed, giving a square appearance when viewed from the front.
Eyes: Almond-shaped, expressive eyes set at a slight angle, neither round nor slanted. Eye color varies and should harmonize with the coat color.
Ears: Moderately large, wide-set ears that are slightly rounded at the tips, offering an alert appearance.
Muzzle and Profile: The muzzle is well-defined and neither sharply tapered nor excessively broad. The profile shows a gentle convex curve from the brow to the tip of the nose.
Body: The American Bobtail Longhair has a muscular, substantial body with a broad chest and a powerful build. It should be well-proportioned and sturdy, indicating strength and agility.
Legs and Paws: Legs are of medium length, in proportion to the body, with large, round paws. The toes are well-knuckled and may display tufts of fur between them.
Tail: The hallmark of the breed is its unique bobbed tail, which is visible when the cat is in motion. The tail is ideally one-third to one-half the length of a regular cat's tail, straight or slightly curved, and expressive, often likened to a "pom-pom" in appearance.
Coat: The American Bobtail Longhair sports a semi-long, resilient coat that is water-resistant and weatherproof. It has a plush, dense undercoat and a longer outer coat, offering protection without excessive matting.
Color and Pattern: American Bobtail Longhairs come in various colors and patterns, including tabby, solid, bi-color, and mackerel. Coat colors may range from a variety of hues, contributing to the breed's unique appeal.
Temperament: American Bobtail Longhairs are known for their friendly, affectionate, and adaptable nature. They are intelligent, playful, and form strong bonds with their families, enjoying interactive play and companionship.
Grooming: Regular grooming, including weekly brushing, helps maintain the coat's condition and prevents matting. Additional grooming may be needed during shedding seasons.
Health: The American Bobtail Longhair is generally a healthy breed with no specific health issues. Routine veterinary care and a balanced diet support their overall well-being.