Pixiebob

Pixiebob cat’s origin can be described as a happy accident. The exact way these cats came to life is still unclear. Still, the widespread belief among cat breeders and owners is that the Pixiebob is a descendant of a wild bobcat and a barn cat. The first Pixiebob litter was born in 1985 when a cat owner named Carol Ann Brewer noticed the interesting litter her barn cat produced. The newborn kittens looked like wild bobcats, so she presented a theory that a bobcat had an affair with her barn cat. The exact truth couldn’t be proven, so cat breeders simply followed that theory. Plus, Pixiebob’s looks support the wild bobcat theory.

We love cat breeds that have a wild appearance. Pixiebobs look absolutely fantastic. They have short tails, although some cats can be tailless or have a full tail. They usually have golden or greenish-golden eyes, pear-shaped heads, and muscular bodies with long limbs. Here are other characteristics all Pixiebob lovers need to know.

Coat

One characteristic that supports the bobcat theory is the Pixiebob’s coat. These cats are primarily shorthaired. However, some can have longhair. They have thick, double coats that keep them pretty warm during cold winters.

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Coat colors

Another thing that supports the theory that the Pixiebob comes from a wild bobcat is its coat color and pattern. These cats have coat patterns like bobcats. However, they also usually have reddish tones mixed in. The pattern is striped or mackerel, and their ears are tipped.

Size

Pixiebobs are considered pretty large cats. Males are larger than females, and most adult cats are 8 - 17 pounds. However, some males recorded over 25 pounds.

Temperament

Having an actual bobcat at home would be insanely awesome. However, it would be pretty impractical. Luckily, Pixiebobs have that wild look, but they come with a mild, house-cat temperament. They are not that active, love their families, love car rides, and often have a dog-like personality. These cats love learning tricks and can even be taught to walk on a leash. They are mildly playful, but when they get in the mood, they will give their all to entertain themselves. One of their best traits is patience. That plus a mild temper make this breed ideal for families with kids.

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Health

Pixiebobs are generally considered healthy. This is one of the breeds that is often outcrossed to avoid health issues that come with inbreeding. They have a lifespan of 13 - 15 years. However, it is a relatively “young” breed, so the research is simply not there yet. Nevertheless, vets and owners noticed a few potential problems;

• Cryptorchidism - Missing testicles or scrotum. These cats are usually expelled from breeding.
• Polydactyl cats - These cats can have up to 7 fingers on their paws. This is something their standard approves.
• Delivery issues - Some cats can have problems delivering litters. Unfortunately, it is impossible to spot this issue early.
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - This is a heart condition sometimes seen in this breed. The genetic component has not yet been confirmed.

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World Cat Finder Team