A Pixie-Bob cat with a curious expression against a white background.
(Photo Credit: Nynke van Holten | Getty Images)

Pixie-Bob

The Pixie-Bob cat stands out among the diverse world of domestic cats with their wild appearance and captivating personality. Originating in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, the Pixie-Bob showcases a striking resemblance to the elusive bobcat. This fascinating blend of wild aesthetics and amiable temperament makes the breed a subject of keen interest for cat fanciers, breeders, and those seeking a cat companion.

These aesthetically unique cats typically have a short, spotted or marbled coat in various colors, with tufted ears, expressive eyes, and a muscular build. The breed is recognized for its friendly and social nature, forming strong bonds with its human companions. Pixie-Bobs are often described as dog-like, enjoying interactive play, walks on a leash, and even learning tricks. Despite their wild appearance, they are affectionate and make loving additions to households willing to provide the attention and engagement they crave.

When considering a Pixie-Bob cat, it’s advisable to prioritize adopting from rescue organizations or shelters to provide a loving home to a cat in need. However, if you decide to purchase a Pixie-Bob kitten, it’s crucial to choose a reputable breeder. Conduct thorough research to ensure that the breeder follows ethical practices and prioritizes the well-being of their cats. Reputable Pixie-Bob cat breeders prioritize the health and temperament of their cats, conduct necessary health screenings, and provide a nurturing environment for the kitties. This active approach ensures that you bring home a healthy and happy kitty while discouraging unethical breeding practices.

Quick Facts

  • Origin: USA, 1960s, developed by Carol Ann Brewer from a feral cat with a bobtail and domestic shorthairs.
  • Size: Medium (8-17 pounds), with males generally larger than females.
  • Breed Group: Landrace (natural breed)
  • Lifespan: 13-15 years
  • Coat: Short or semi-longhaired, naturally occurring tabby patterns in various colors like brown, silver, and charcoal.
  • Temperament: Easygoing, friendly, affectionate, intelligent, playful, enjoys human interaction and playtime.
  • Exercise Needs: Moderate – loves exploring, climbing, and games, but also content with cuddles.
  • Training: Easily trainable due to their intelligence and desire to please, can learn tricks and even leash training.
  • Grooming: Weekly brushing for short-haired, more frequent for semi-longhaired, to prevent matting.
  • Health: Generally healthy, but some potential for genetic health conditions
  • Pixie-Bobs are unique in the fact that they are polydactyl. Polydactyl cats have more than the usual number of digits on its paws. Polydactyl cats are considered lucky, so if you have a Pixie-Bob, luck may be on your side!
  • The facial hair on a Pixie-Bob makes it look like they have mutton chops.
  • Åska is a Pixie-Bob in Sweden that has an Instagram, where you can follow his adventures.
  • They are known for their chirps, but barely meow at all.

Pixie-Bob Pictures

Pixie-Bob History

The Pixie-Bob breed is thought to have started from the unplanned litter of a bobcat and a barn cat in 1985. The barn cat belonged to Carol Ann Brewer, and she named a female kitten Pixie. Pixie became the foundation mother for this breed. While there is no hard proof that Pixie’s father was actually a wildcat, it is widely believed and accepted by breeders. 

The International Cat Association (TICA) officially recognized the Pixie-Bob as a breed in 1994. It took the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) up until 2005 to follow suit and accept the Pixie-Bob as a recognized breed. Breeders are still hoping that the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) will soon start accepting the Pixie-Bob as a breed as well.

Pixie-Bob Size

The Pixie-Bob can be quite a large cat! Female Pixie-Bobs tend to weigh in between 8-12 pounds, whereas the male Pixie-Bob can clock in around up to 25 pounds! The Pixie-Bob is a brawny, muscular cat, which is why many breeders do believe a Coastal Red Bobcat had to be the founding father of the breed. 

Pixie-Bob Personality

Pixie-Bobs may have been created out of wild passion, but for the most part, Pixie-Bobs are a mellow sort of cat. Pixie-Bobs love to be with their owners, but Pixie-Bobs are not considered hyperactive by any stretch of the imagination. These cats enjoy laid-back hang sessions with the family and have been described as “dog-like” in personality. 

Pixie-Bobs bond very strongly with their families and love taking car rides and leashed walks with their loved ones. This is what makes the Pixie-Bob an ideal cat for families with children. Pixie-Bob’s ability to bond with their humans along with their patient personas make them excellent companions for children.

Pixie-Bob Health

Pixie-Bobs as a breed are relatively healthy and not prone to many illnesses. The breed is frequently outcrossed, which helps avoid potential health problems that arise from inbreeding. There are a couple of health issues that still can arise with a Pixie-Bob cat.

  • Difficult Births: A small percentage of Pixie-Bobs have difficulty delivering litters and may suffer health consequences. These Pixie-Bobs are taken out of breeding in hopes of reducing this issue.
  • Cryptorchidism: A few cases of Cryptorchidism (missing testes or scrotum) have been reported in Pixie-Bobs, but not enough to consider it a health hazard for Pixie-Bobs across the board.

Pixie-Bob Care

Pixie-Bobs do not inherently have many health issues, but basic care is a must for these large cats. An issue that can arise with Pixie-Bobs is a little extra weight. Be sure to maintain your Pixie-Bob’s weight at a healthy point and not mistake it for him simply being a large cat.

Pixie-Bob Coat Color And Grooming

Pixie-Bobs have a thick double coat which needs to be brushed regularly to avoid matting and excessive shedding. The texture is “wooly,” like a bobcat, and can be either short-haired or long-haired.

Typically, Pixie-Bobs have a mackerel or striped coat pattern. Sometimes these stripes are accompanied by rosettes, giving the Pixie-Bob that authentic bobcat look. A Pixie-Bob’s coat can be a variety of colors, but are mostly tawny, light gray, or reddish in appearance. 

Children And Other Pets

Given the Pixie-Bob’s dog-like reputation, these cats make excellent companions for homes with other pets and with children. The Pixie-Bob’s devotion to its family and overall loyalty make them excellent companions for pretty much anyone!

Statistics
Life Span
13 to 15 years
Length
20 to 24 inches
Weight
8 to 17 pounds, some up to 25 pounds
Country Of Origin
Washington, USA
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