The History of Japanese Bobtails (JBTs) is very ancient and
colorful. JBTs are a Natural Breed (humans did not originate
them from other breeds). Due to this, this is a very healthy and
robust breed of cats. This breed originated thousands of years
ago in the Orient. There are many stories about their
origin. Ancient texts depict their likeness. Bobbed tail cats
were and are seen in most of the Orient, indicating that this
natural mutation probably occurred in the prehistoric
times. Bobtailed cats were brought to Japan most likely from
Korea and China in the Sixth Century during the reign of
Emperor Idi-Jo (986-1011 AD(?) ) to protect the silk industry
and manuscripts from mice. Emperors bestowed special court rank
to these magical creatures. It was forbidden for ordinary people
to posses them. JBTs were sequestered in the Palaces and Temples
for generations. Japanese Religion and Fine Art incorporate
superb illustrations of these cats through its history. Tokyo's
Gotokuji Temple (constructed in 1697) is dedicated to the Maneki-Neko (Good Luck Cat).
JBTs are found on many silk hand-made scroll paintings,
woodblock prints and netsuke (small decorative carved objects
used as toggles to fasten a pouch or purse to the kimono sash ).
This attests to its important status in the Fine Art of Japan.
As these cats became more numerous, they were put into service
(around 1600) to protect granaries and silkworm cocoons from vermin. These Living Treasures remained isolated in Japan until
after World War II when families of U.S. servicemen stationed in
Japan took these cats into their homes. In 1968 the first three
Japanese Bobtails were imported to the United States by
Elisabeth Freret to be introduced into CFA. In 1971 they were
given provisional status in CFA and were accepted for
Championship competition in 1976. In 1993 the Longhair Japanese
Bobtails were accepted by CFA for Championship competition.
Even though, JBTs are considered to be a minority breed in CFA (few breeders and few litters relative to other breeds), they
consistently attain high Regional and National Awards. There are
many Distinguished Merit JBTs in CFA.