Behind the Kurilean Bobtail’s strong build and slightly wild expression is a gentle, intelligent and affectionate companion. Naturally curious and active, the Kurilean retains the instincts of a skilled hunter, but at home it is known for forming close bonds with its family.

These cats love to be involved in everyday life. They enjoy playing, exploring and spending time with people, and many also live happily alongside other animals. Their intelligence and curiosity make them quick learners, and some can even be taught to fetch toys and perform simple tricks.

The Kurilean Bobtail is generally confident and adaptable, often approaching its surroundings with curiosity rather than hesitation. It combines independence with a wonderfully social nature and is often happiest when it can be part of whatever its family is doing.

With its loyalty, intelligence and enthusiasm for interaction, it is easy to understand why the Kurilean Bobtail is sometimes affectionately described as “the dog of the cat world.”

More about the Kurilean Bobtail

HEAD: Broad and trapezoidal in shape with gently rounded contours and prominent cheekbones. In profile, the head is slightly rounded, with a broad and well-developed chin.

NOSE: Medium in length, straight and of even width, without a pronounced stop. There should be a gentle transition from the forehead to the nose.

EARS: Medium-sized and broad at the base, with rounded tips and a slight forward inclination. The ears are set well apart, approximately one ear-width between them.

EYES: Rounded, set wide apart and at a slight angle, contributing to the Kurilean Bobtail’s alert and expressive appearance.

BODY: Compact, powerful and muscular with a strong bone structure. The back forms a gentle curve from the shoulders towards the rump. The hind legs are longer than the front legs, and the paws are rounded.

TAIL: The unmistakable trademark of the breed. The tail consists of one or more bends, curves or kinks and may be flexible or rigid. The direction and combination of these bends can vary, which helps give each Kurilean its individual tail. The visible tail length, excluding the fur, should be 3–8 cm, and its size and shape should harmonise with the cat’s overall appearance.

FAULT: A tail measuring 8–12 cm. The cat may still participate in exhibitions.

DISQUALIFICATION: A tail measuring more than 12 cm. Such a cat cannot participate in the show. See tail shapes.

COLOUR: A wide variety of colours and patterns is permitted, including combinations with white. Colourpoint, chocolate, cinnamon, fawn and lilac, as well as their combinations with white, are not permitted.

Above all, the Kurilean Bobtail should give the impression of a strong, natural and beautifully balanced cat, with its characteristic body, expressive face and wonderfully individual pom-pom tail all coming together to create the unmistakable Kurilean look.

Source and further reading: Information on the original page was based on material from RGJ Cat's.