Although it has existed since at least the 17th century in the Russian Kuril Islands, this natural race has remained unknown due to the political withdrawal of the Soviet Union; it was first recognized in the early 1990s and approved in Europe in 2003. Although distinct from the Japanese bobtail, the Kurilian bobtail or Kurilian bobtail has difficulty being approved by cat associations due to the similarities between the two breeds , both of which have short, pom-pom tails.
The Kurilian bobtail has a compact and powerful body. His back is arched; its frame and musculature is powerful, with medium-length legs and round feet. Its trapezoidal head has high, prominent cheekbones and a prominent snout. His eyes are large and almost round; all colors are accepted as long as they match the dress. The ears, medium, are quite apart.
The short tail of the Kurilian bobtail, similar to the Japanese bobtail, has longer hair than the rest of the body, forming a pompom. It measures between 3 and 8 cm and has different names according to length and shape; the most desirable type of tail is called “spiral” and has a more or less coiled shape. The coat of this cat can be short or medium length with a thick undercoat; all colors and patterns are allowed.
Good to know
This robust cat is very resistant: he fears neither cold nor rain. It is a great outdoor cat that needs a lot of space. He excels at hunting and fishing and loves to play in the water. It is therefore not really made for life in an apartment where it can feel cramped. It is also a breed that likes a certain independence.
Despite this, the Kurilian bobtail is extremely sociable. Very affectionate and playful, he loves children and has no problems with other animals or strangers. He shows no aggression, but is curious and shows great intelligence. Despite his thick hair, he does not require complex maintenance: weekly brushing is sufficient.
Find the magazine “Le Monde des Animaux” in newsstands and at monmag.fr (paper and digital versions and subscriptions).
The world of animals and nature is a magazine dedicated to wildlife from around the world. Through captivating stories and sublime photographs, the magazine offers a true visual safari in the heart of nature.