The Japanese Bobtail or mi-ke [三毛] is a breed of cat originating from Japan. Like all animals and their respective breeds, the mi-ke has its unique characteristics and behaviors.
It is believed that the Japanese Bobtail mi-ke brings luck, happiness, and prosperity, having its greatest representation in Japanese temples and establishments, often used to welcome guests.
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History of the Japanese Bobtail
The Bobtail appeared in Japan in the 7th century. This breed variety likely came through China, as China has been sending its cats to Japan for over 1000 years.
Despite the breed existing for years, Japan only became interested in popularizing the Mi-ke from the late 1960s, where the United States had a significant influence on the culture and popularization of the breed.
The name mi-ke [三毛] highlights one of its characteristics. The number 3 [三] represents the number of colors the cat has. Meanwhile, [毛] represents its fur. Thus, mi-ke literally means fur of 3 colors.
Characteristics of the Mi-ke breed
The most notable characteristic of the Mi-ke is its small tail, which measures between eight and 10 centimeters when stretched. The cat keeps it curved, making it resemble a rabbit’s tail.
The fur is medium and silky, with varied and distinct colors, the most appreciated being black, white, and red, whether in bicolor or tricolor varieties, or as a single color.
- Head: The head should form an equilateral triangle (excluding the ears);
- Ears: large, erect, well-separated, but at a right angle to the head and looking alert;
- Muzzle: Quite broad, not abrupt;
- Eyes: large, round, oval-shaped;
- Body: medium-sized, males larger than females. Long, slender, and elegant torso, showing well-developed muscular strength. Balance is also very important;
- Neck: Not too long and not too short, in proportion to the body length;
- Legs: long, thin, and tall. The hind legs longer than the front;
- Paws: oval;
- Toes: five in front and four in back;
- Tail: The tail should be clearly visible and is composed of one or more curved joints;
A Japanese Bobtail can have heterochromia, one eye a different color from the other. It is common for one eye to be blue (meaning silver) and the other yellow (gold).
Temperament of a Japanese Bobtail
Calm, loyal, friendly, curious, affectionate, and sociable, it easily adapts to various circumstances. They have a melodic meow and enjoy “talking” with their owner, so much so that Eastern legends say that the cat of this breed would be a man transformed into an animal who converses with people.
Most of the time, cats of this breed are active, quite intelligent, with a nature oriented toward understanding humans. They are much easier to train to perform tricks than most breeds.
Japanese Bobtails are more willing to enjoy learning to perform human activities. Their soft voices can practically offer a full range of tones, which has led to a popular belief that they can sing.
Bobtail cats are ideal for both houses and apartments. They are family-friendly, get along very well with children, and even with other animals. To conclude, let’s leave some details below:
| Original Name | Japanese Bobtail or mi-ke [三毛] |
| Size | Medium |
| Physical Characteristics | Body: slender and thin. Head: equilateral triangle shape. Ears: large. Eyes: oval shape. |
| Average Weight | Male – 6 kg • Female – 6 kg |
| Life Expectancy | 9 to 18 years |
| Coat Color | Bicolor and tricolor. (Black, white, and red) |
| Coat Type | Semi-long |
| Temperament | Loyal, friendly, curious, sociable, and affectionate. |
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