The muscular and brawny Pixiebobs are a breed of domestic cats and were thought to be a progeny of bobcats. However, DNA testing has failed to show any such evidence and these cats are considered to be solely domestic. They form a strong bond with their people and families. Pixiebobs are easy to train and love travelling in cars.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United States
Used for: Companion
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Color: All colors and patterns
Coat: Short or long
Average Height: Medium to large
Average Weight: 12-17 pounds (males); 8-12 pounds (females)
History and Domestication
In the spring of 1985, Carol Ann Brewer purchased a polydactyl spotted male kitten from Cascade Range in Washington. The following year, she rescued a male patterned cat with a short tail and named him Keba. This cat stood as tall as her knees. She then bred her neighbor’s cat hat produced a litter in April 1986. She took one of these kittens with a reddish-fawn cat and muted spotting and named her Pixie. She then started a breeding program keeping Pixie as the base cat and introduced 23 other cats from around the Cascade Range. With the help of other breeders Brewer managed to establish a broad genetic base for today’s Pixiebob.
Standard Physical Characteristics
Pixiebobs are medium to large-sized cats with muscular and brawny bodies and substantial boning. Their rangy bodies give them a rolling gait like a wild cat. Legs are long and heavy with hind legs being a little longer than front legs. They have big paws with long and thick toes. It is the only cat breed that accepts polydactyl (cats with extra toes) and can have maximum of seven toes. They come in two coat lengths- longhaired and shorthaired. Their face is similar to that of a wild bobcat complete with a puffy nose and a thick, fleshy chin. They medium-sized, triangular eyes have heavy brows above them. The tail can be as short as 2 inches and is usually knotted or kinked.
Care, Grooming and Health
Shorthaired Pixiebobs do not require a lot of grooming and you can get away by brushing them once in a while. The longhaired cats need weekly brushing to remove dead hair and prevent tangles.
Although they are healthy cats but some genetic disorders that have been spotted in Pixiebobs include cryptorchidism, dystocia and cystic endometrial hyperplasia.
Living Conditions
Pixiebobs enjoy being a part of the family and need a lot of attention. They are suited for households with children and cat-friendly dogs and other pets.
Temperament
The active and social Pixiebob is very loyal and attached to its family and enjoys the company of children and other pets. They form very strong bonds with their people. These intelligent cats can be trained to fetch and walk on a leash. They are curious and inquisitive and want to be a part of your activities and will communicate with their occasional chirps and growls. They can be active and laidback at the same time.
