The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Distinctive Feature

Japanese Bobtail

Pom-style bobtail with a light, elegant build

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
High
Vocality
Medium
Health sensitivity
Low
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Low
Temperature sensitivity
Low

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Single
Coat length
Short

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want an active, social cat with a distinctive bobbed tail

Not ideal

  • Want a low-energy cat that prefers long quiet stretches alone

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often upbeat and interactive—curious, quick, and very into “being part of it.” Many enjoy games and follow-the-human routines.

Handling & social style

Many respond well to interactive bonding; tail signaling can look different, so watch the whole body, not just the tail.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Standard care with a tail-specific note: the pom bobtail is a structural trait, not a handle.

Environment & space

Typical indoor life works; nothing specialty required beyond normal climbing/scratch basics.

Daily routine

Normal grooming; keep a steady activity habit so the cat stays fit and settled.

Health sensitivities

Choose for overall structure and documented family history; avoid programs focused only on tail look.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

Japan

Background

A long-recognized bobtail type in Japan that was later standardized in the modern cat fancy. The pom-style bobtail is the signature feature that anchors the breed identity.