Pixiebob

Breed Overview

Introduction

The Pixiebob cat stands as a fascinating testament to selective breeding, a domestic feline crafted to embody the rugged allure of the wild bobcat while retaining the gentle and affectionate disposition of a beloved house pet.

Hailing from the misty Pacific Northwest, this breed has captivated enthusiasts with its distinctive appearance and remarkably dog-like personality.

Far from being a wild hybrid, the Pixiebob is a wholly domestic cat, a careful creation designed to offer the best of both worlds: an exotic aesthetic without the challenges of a true wild animal.

Breed History

The captivating journey of the Pixiebob breed began in the mid-1980s in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Washington State.  

Carol Ann Brewer, a dedicated cat fancier, is credited with the breed’s foundation. In 1985, she acquired a polydactyl spotted male kitten with a short tail, followed by a large, bobcat-like male named Keba in 1986.  

A litter born from Keba and a neighbor’s domestic female produced a bobtailed female kitten with a reddish, spotted coat, whom Brewer named Pixie.

Pixie’s unique appearance sparked Brewer’s vision. Recognizing the distinctive traits of these “legend cats”—a term reflecting the local folklore of domestic cats breeding with wild bobcats—Brewer sought to establish a breed that consistently reproduced this wild look.  

It is important to note that despite the initial speculation and the breed’s striking resemblance to wild bobcats, extensive DNA testing has conclusively shown that Pixiebobs have no wild cat ancestry; they are entirely domestic felines.

By 1987, Brewer began a selective breeding program, focusing on cats that exhibited the desired bobcat-like characteristics. She developed a breed standard and chose the name “Pixiebob” in honor of her foundational kitten.  

The breed gained recognition from The International Cat Association (TICA), achieving Exhibition Status in 1994, New Breed Color (NBC) status in 1995, and Championship status in 1997.  

This progression highlights the dedicated work involved in establishing a new breed and gaining acceptance within the cat fancy community.  

The Pixiebob’s development over two decades has resulted in a breed with remarkable genetic diversity, contributing to its overall robustness.

Physical Characteristics

The Pixiebob is a medium to large-sized cat, characterized by a muscular, brawny build and substantial boning that gives it a powerful, wild appearance.  

Their rangy bodies contribute to a distinctive “rolling gait,” reminiscent of their wild bobcat counterparts.  

They possess long, heavy legs, with the hind legs often appearing slightly longer than the front, further enhancing their athletic silhouette. Their large paws are notable, often featuring long, thick toes.

One of the most defining and unique physical traits of the Pixiebob is polydactyly—the presence of extra toes. The Pixiebob is one of the few breeds that officially accepts polydactyl individuals, with up to seven toes allowed on each foot.

The Pixiebob’s head is pear-shaped, featuring a thick, fleshy chin and puffy nose leather. Their deep-set, heavily hooded eyes are medium-sized and soft triangular, with colors ranging from golden brown to gooseberry green.  

Some individuals may also exhibit lynx tips on their ears, and their facial hair can grow downward, creating the appearance of “muttonchop sideburns,” adding to their wild charm.

Their tail is another distinguishing feature, typically short or “bobbed,” ranging from a minimum of 2 inches up to the hock. While some Pixiebobs may have tails shorter or longer than these proportions, the tail is frequently kinked or knotted, yet remains completely flexible and moves naturally.

The coat of a Pixiebob is a thick double coat with a woolly texture that stands off from the body.  

Both shorthair and longhair varieties exist, with longhairs having a medium coat length of up to 2 inches with a softer, silkier feel. The breed’s only accepted color is a brown spotted tabby, with shades varying from tawny to a reddish brown.  

The small spots are often muted by heavy ticking, which becomes more pronounced and silvery in tone during the winter months.

Behavior and Personality

The Pixiebob’s personality is a delightful contrast to its wild appearance, consistently earning it the moniker “dog in disguise”.

These cats are renowned for their profound loyalty and devotion to their human families, often following their owners from room to room, eager to participate in daily activities.

This strong bond means they thrive on human interaction and companionship, making them an ideal choice for individuals or families who spend a good amount of time at home.

Pixiebobs are highly intelligent and inquisitive felines, always eager to explore their surroundings and engage with their environment. This intellectual curiosity translates into a playful and active nature.

Their trainability is exceptional, often surprising new owners; Pixiebobs can readily learn to walk on a harness and leash, play fetch, and even respond to basic commands like “sit” or “come”.

Despite their active and intelligent nature, Pixiebobs are also described as remarkably laid-back, gentle, and undemanding companions.

They are not considered a high-energy breed like some Bengals or Savannahs, offering a good balance of playful antics and calm relaxation. They enjoy quiet lap time and snuggling in bed, demonstrating their affectionate side.

Their vocalizations are another unique aspect of their personality. Pixiebobs rarely meow in the traditional sense, preferring to communicate through a charming repertoire of chirps, chatters, trills, chuffs, beeps, and grumbles.

Pixiebobs are known for their amicable nature and generally get along well with children and other pets, including dogs, especially when properly socialized from a young age.

They are patient and tolerant, making them suitable for families with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with a cat.

Their sturdy and adaptable disposition makes them excellent travel companions, often enjoying car rides and even hikes on a leash.

Care Guide

Diet

Pixiebobs do not have particularly special nutritional requirements, making their feeding relatively straightforward compared to some other breeds. The most important aspect is to provide a high-quality, balanced cat food appropriate for their age and activity level.

A key consideration for Pixiebob owners is their propensity to gain weight. Their robust build can sometimes be mistaken for a healthy large size, but vigilance is necessary to prevent obesity.

Exercise

Pixiebobs are active and inquisitive cats, but they are not considered hyperactive like some other breeds. They require regular exercise to maintain their physical health and satisfy their natural instincts.

Structured play that mimics hunting behaviors, such as using wand toys with unpredictable movements, is highly effective.

Short, consistent play sessions (around 10–15 minutes, twice a day for indoor cats) are ideal to burn energy and strengthen the bond. They also enjoy games like fetch, which can provide both physical activity and mental engagement.

Their remarkable ability to learn to walk on a leash and harness opens up opportunities for safe outdoor exploration, allowing them to enjoy hikes or simply stalk through the grass, satisfying their natural curiosity.

Environment & Enrichment

Given their intelligence and curious nature, Pixiebobs thrive in environments that offer rich enrichment and opportunities for mental and physical challenges. Providing a stimulating indoor environment is crucial for their well-being, especially if outdoor access is limited.

Creating a consistent routine and providing clear boundaries helps Pixiebobs thrive.

They respond well to clarity and positive reinforcement, making training effective for managing behaviors like jumping on counters by redirecting them to appropriate climbing structures.

Auditory enrichment, such as low-volume nature sounds, can also reduce stress when owners are away.

Grooming

The Pixiebob’s thick double coat, whether short or long, is generally considered relatively low-maintenance, but it does require consistent attention to stay healthy and minimize shedding. While their dense fur doesn’t mat easily, they are regular shedders.

For shorthair Pixiebobs, weekly brushing is usually sufficient to remove loose fur, dirt, and debris, and to distribute natural oils throughout the coat.

Longhair Pixiebobs, however, require more frequent grooming, ideally two to three times a week, to prevent matting and manage shedding. A slicker brush or wide-toothed comb is effective for detangling and removing loose hair, with particular attention paid to areas prone to matting like behind the ears or under the armpits.

Beyond coat care, regular nail trims are essential, especially for polydactyl Pixiebobs. Their extra toes can sometimes lead to overgrown or ingrown nails if not monitored and trimmed regularly (every 2–4 weeks).

Mental Stimulation

Given their high intelligence and inquisitive nature, mental stimulation is not merely a luxury but a necessity for Pixiebobs’ well-being.

An under-stimulated Pixiebob can become bored, potentially leading to stress or undesirable behaviors as they seek to entertain themselves.

By consistently providing opportunities for mental work and structured play, owners can ensure their Pixiebob remains content, engaged, and well-behaved, preventing the development of boredom-related issues.

Health Concerns

Is This Breed Right for You?

FAQ

Are Pixiebob cats really part bobcat?

No, despite their striking resemblance to the wild Coastal Red Bobcat, DNA testing has confirmed that Pixiebobs are entirely domestic cats with no wild cat ancestry. The breed was developed through careful selective breeding of domestic felines to achieve their distinctive wild look.

How large do Pixiebob cats get?

Pixiebobs are medium to large-sized cats. Males typically weigh between 12 and 17 pounds (5.4-7.7 kg), though some can reach up to 20 pounds (9.1 kg). Females are slightly smaller, ranging from 8 to 12 pounds (3.6-5.4 kg), with some reaching up to 15 pounds (6.8 kg). It’s important to remember that they can take up to four years to reach their full size and muscular development.

Do all Pixiebobs have short tails?

Pixiebobs are characterized by a naturally short or “bobbed” tail, which can range in length from a minimum of 2 inches up to the hock. While most have short tails, the length can vary within the breed, and some may have tails that are almost non-existent or even longer. The tail is often kinked or knotted but should remain flexible.

How much does a Pixiebob kitten cost?

The cost of a Pixiebob kitten can vary significantly based on factors such as gender, coat length, and whether they have polydactyl paws. For a pet-quality kitten, prices typically range from $1,800 to $3,500. Kittens intended for show or breeding purposes can start at $5,000 and go higher.

Why do breeders wait until kittens are 14-16 weeks old before selling them?

Reputable breeders adhere to a code of ethics that prioritizes the kitten’s health and development. Kittens need to receive at least two FVRCP (distemper) vaccinations, typically at 8 and 12 weeks of age. Full immunity does not occur until kittens are 14-16 weeks old, making it safer for them to go to new homes. This waiting period also allows for spay/neuter surgery, microchipping, and initial socialization, ensuring the kitten is well-prepared for its new environment.

Can Pixiebobs be declawed?

Reputable Pixiebob breeders strongly advise against declawing. Declawing is a painful and often traumatic surgical procedure that can lead to significant behavioral issues, including aggressive biting and litter box avoidance. Many cats that are declawed end up in shelters due to these problems. Responsible breeders prioritize the cat’s welfare and typically require buyers to agree not to declaw. Instead, providing appropriate scratching posts (they prefer wood) and regular nail trims are recommended.

Bonus Facts

Water Enthusiasts

Unlike many cat breeds, Pixiebobs often show a fascination with water. Some enjoy playing with water toys, splashing in shallow water, or even joining their owners in the shower.

Unique Vocalizations

Pixiebobs are known for their distinctive communication style, which includes chirps, chatters, trills, and chuffs, rather than traditional meows. They have surprisingly quiet “speaking” voices but are famous for their very loud purrs.

Adventure Cats

Their adaptable and loyal nature, combined with their trainability, has earned them the nickname “adventure cats.” They are sturdy travel companions and can often be found enjoying car rides, riding motorcycles, or going for hikes on a leash.

Polydactyly is a Breed Standard

The Pixiebob is one of the only cat breeds where polydactyly (having extra toes) is accepted and even encouraged within the breed standard, adding to their unique appearance.

Intelligent and Tuned In

Pixiebobs are highly intelligent and often described as being “very in tune with your moods.” They are attentive companions who seem to understand their human family’s emotions.

References

“Pet-store Santa won’t need rabies shots”. Press of Atlantic City. 11 December 2008. Archived from the original on 23 December 2008. Urban legends have it that pixiebobs are the result of wild bobcats breeding with domestic cats, Bowers said. But DNA tests have proved those rumors untrue, as wild bobcat markers were not found in the breed.

“Pixiebob Cat Breed Information History”. Vetstreet. Retrieved 2018-05-03.

“Pixiebob Introduction”. TICA. Retrieved 2018-05-03.

Founder’s Homepage Carol Ann Brewer

Trademark Applications and Registrations Retrieval Serial Number: 77196038 United States Patent and Trademark Office

See generally In Re Ditto, 499 Fed. Appx. 1 (Fed. Cir. 2012).

Fast facts about the domestic cat Archived 2011-12-17 at the Wayback Machine

Catsplace (March 2018). “Pixie Bob Cat Breed”. Cat breeds of the world. Retrieved 2020-01-01.

“LOOF STANDARDS” (PDF). Retrieved April 10, 2021.

“50 top, best and the most popular cat breeds of the world”. The Lovely Planet. 2015-02-07. Retrieved 2020-01-01.

“Pixie-Bob Cat Breed Information, Pictures, Characteristics & Facts”. CatTime. Retrieved 2018-05-03.