Kurilian Bobtail Cat
Cat Facts

The Kurilian Bobtail cat with its fluffy, short-tail originates from a cluster of islands called the Kurile Islands. These islands separate the North Pacific Ocean from the Sea of Okhotsk. There are over 50 islands in this volcanic archipelago and whilst there is a dispute between Russia and Japan regarding the ownership, all the islands would appear to fall under Russian jurisdiction. This Russian / Japanese 'connection' is an interesting one, as it raises the question as to whether the Kurilian is in fact the ancestor of the Japanese Bobtail cat?

The Kurilian Bobtail cat is a rare cat breed beyond Russia. It is a natural breed, meaning that humans played no part in their development. The Kurilian's short tail is as a result of a genetic mutation. Effectively this means that if a mating occurred between a 'normal-long-tailed' domestic cat and the Kurilian, all the offspring would have shortened tails - some angulated and some with the distinctive pom-pom tail. (As a matter of interest there are no permissible outcrosses)

The wild Kurilian Bobtail cat roamed these islands for decades prior to becoming domesticated. They were first identified in the 1950's and then found their way to the Russian mainland in the 1980's - it is believed that scientists or military personnel brought them to Russia. They were first shown at Russian cat shows in the 1990's, recognized by the World Cat Federation in 1995, FiFe and TICA in 2003. At this stage, CFA does not recognize this cat breed.

This breed is also known at the Kuril Bobtail or the Kunashir Cat.

Cat Characteristics

This is a medium to large cat, compact, (semi-cobby) with a slightly arched back and a rump that appears higher than the shoulders. Overall, the Kurilian Bobtail cat is firm, well muscled and has a solid and substantial bone structure. They do have a 'wild' appearance. Its legs are strong and solid and of medium length. The back legs are slightly longer than the forelegs and the thighs are prominent.

The tail must be a minimum of 2 vertebrae long and a cat with the absence of a tail is disqualified. The tail should have one or more curves or kinks which may be either flexible or rigid or both. (The base of the tail should always be flexible). The ideal tail length (without fur) is between 0.59 inches (1.5 cm) to 3.1 inches (8 cm). The tail can face in any direction and the fur on the tail can appear as a brush or a pom-pom. Their cute tails are described as a whisk, a snag or a spiral.

Its large head is shaped like a modified wedge, with rounded contours being broader at the level of the cheekbones. The nose is straight, broad and of medium length and the chin is wide, well developed and when seen in profile is slightly rounded. The muzzle is wider than it is long.

The moderately large eyes that are set at a slight angle. The shape of the eye is described as walnut, i.e. rounded at the bottom and oval at the top. The eye color has no relation to coat color, but the eye color must be brilliant and clear. Van, harlequins and white cats may have odd eyes (brown and blue) or blue eyes. The Kurilian Bobtail cat has erect ears that are triangular in shape with tips that are rounded. The ears are tilted slightly forward, are wide at the base and of medium size. The ears may have Lynx tips.

It comes in 2 coat lengths:

The Semi-Longhaired Kurilian - the semi-long fur lies flat with very little undercoat and is fine and silky to the touch. The tail coat is plumed and full and a ruff, toe tufts and britches are preferred.

The Shorthaired Kurilian - the short fur lies flat with very little undercoat and is fine and silky to the touch. The fur on the tail will be the same length as the rest of the body.

Apart from Colorpoint, cinnamon (fawn), chocolate (lilac) which are not permitted, you can expect to find the Kurilian in all traditional, naturally occurring colors and patterns - solids, tortoiseshell or tabby. The amount of white is not limited and lockets are permissible.

Cat Personality and Temperament

The Kurilian Bobtail cat is a well balanced, intelligent cat that is easily trained. The have excellent natural hunting skills and make excellent mousers. They are also known for their love of water.

The Kurilian is a gentle, non-aggressive cat - easy going and affectionate. They love a warm lap and a cuddle. Being sociable, they do not tolerate solitude well. Their inquisitive nature means they will always be at your side and want to be involved in all activities. They may observe all the household activities perched on the highest point they can find.

Playful, friendly, active and outgoing - that's the Kurilian

Kurilian Bobtail Cat Information

Would they suit a home with Children?

Yes they are child friendly cats, but smaller children need to be taught how to play and handle cats.

Are they Pet Friendly?

Yes, these cats get on well with other cats and cat-friendly dogs.

What is the Ideal Home for the Kurilian?

The Kurilian Bobtail cat is best suited to outdoor living, but 'outdoors' means a safe and enclosed garden that is escape-proof. They can adapt to indoor living, but it's important to provide a suitable cat- friendly environment or them.

Cat Grooming and Cat Care

Weekly grooming for shorthair cats and twice a week for longhaired cats is recommended. They are low maintenance cat breeds.

We have excellent cat care information with tips on cat grooming, do take the tour.

Cat Health Concerns

A healthy robust and hardy cat breed with few if any health concerns. Good diet and exercise and an annual check-up at vaccination-time will keep your Kurilian Bobtail cat in good health.

We always suggest that cat owners invest in cat insurance. Medical pet health insurance is a life-saver!

Cat Diet and Nutrition

Your kitty needs the best cat food you can afford. There are so many options - dry kibbles, canned cat food and of course raw cat food. Your cat should always have access to fresh drinking water.

Cat Weight?

On average these cats weigh between 3.6 - 6.8 kg (8.0 - 15.0 lbs) ; As with most cat breeds, the females are smaller than the males.

Korat Cat Life Expectancy?

The average life span is 15 + years - long life expectancy. The breed is slow to mature. You can extend your cat's life - find out more about this in our chapter on how long do cats live.

Related Cat Pages:

Kurilian Bobtail Kittens - International Cat Breeder Directory