American Bobtail Cat Breeds
By 
Since the original lines were phased out due to problems with inbreeding from a very small gene pool, there is now a conscious effort to produce American Bobtails that resemble the wild bobcat in physical appearance, with a friendlier, more domestic temperament, and they are very athletic-looking cats with a sturdy frame. The American Bobtail comes in many recognised colours and patterns, and although out-crossing to other recognised breeds is no longer permitted they are mated with domestic non-pedigree shorthairs to increase the gene pool, but not to bobcats or other feral cats. Colours include black, brown, chocolate, cinnamon, blue, lilac, fawn red and cream, and patterns can include various tortie (in the females), shaded, tipped and tabby patterns. Any colour eyes are acceptable, usually relating to the coat colour, and are almond in shape. The ears are of medium size with rounded tips, and set in a position midway between the top and the side of the head, adding to the overall picture of a medium wedge-shaped head. The tail should stop just below the level of the hocks when hanging down, and their feet are large and round, quite often with toe tufts of hair. This breed is slow to mature, sometimes taking as long as three years to reach full maturity.