The American Bobtail cat is a fascinating breed with a unique appearance and a playful personality. Their short, bobbed tail is the most distinctive feature that sets them apart from other cat breeds. But just how rare is an American Bobtail cat?
To answer this question, we first need to understand the history of the American Bobtail breed. The breed was first developed in the late 1960s when a couple named John and Brenda Sanders discovered a short-tailed cat roaming around their farm in Iowa. They bred this cat with other domestic cats, including Siamese and Himalayans, to create a new breed with a distinct bobtail.
Today, the American Bobtail is recognized as a breed by several cat associations, including The International Cat Association (TICA), the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), and the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA).
Despite being a recognized breed, American Bobtail cats are still relatively rare. According to TICA, the American Bobtail is ranked as the 36th most popular breed out of 71 breeds. However, this ranking does not reflect the true rarity of the breed, as many cat owners and breeders outside of TICA may not register their cats.
It’s also important to note that not all American Bobtails are created equal. Some lines of American Bobtails may be more common than others, depending on their breeding history and geographic location. For example, American Bobtails may be more common in certain regions of the United States where breeders have focused on developing the breed.
So, while American Bobtail cats are not as common as some of the more popular breeds like the Siamese or Persian, they are not necessarily an extremely rare breed either. It all depends on the specific line of American Bobtail and where you are located.
If you are interested in adding an American Bobtail to your family, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Because the breed is still relatively rare, there may be unscrupulous breeders who are more concerned with making a profit than breeding healthy and well-socialized cats.
In conclusion, while American Bobtail cats are not the most popular breed out there, they are not necessarily an extremely rare breed either. If you are interested in this unique and playful breed, do your research and find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized cat that will bring joy to your family for years to come.