Cat Breeds 101: Mekong Bobtail

Cat Breeds 101 - Mekong Bobtail
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The Mekong Bobtail is a cat breed originating from Thailand. In some legends of ancient Siam (today Thailand) there were beautiful cats with unusual colors; dark muzzle, dark tail and paws and striking blue eyes. These cats were believed to guard the palace and the treasury and are thought to be the ancestors of the Mekong Bobtail breed. [1]

In the late 19th century about 200 ‘royal cats’ were given to Nicholas II, Tsar of Russia by the King of Siam, Rama V. Many of them had short, kinked tails. The cats, together with the bobtailed cats brought into Russia from Southeast Asia are the foundation cats for the Mekong Bobtail. In 2012, there are only about 1,500 Mekong Bobtail cats registered all around the world. [2]

On August 15, 2004 in Russia, the international standard of the breed was approved during the general assembly of the World Cat Federation. It was also during this event that the breed’s name was changed from Thai Bobtail to Mekong Bobtail. These cats are considered as “national treasures” in their home country. They live in temples with the wealthy families and with famous people; they are treated as a noble breed. According to some tales, Mekong Bobtails bring happiness, prosperity and success to their owners. [3]

The Mekong Bobtail is a color-pointed cat, medium-sized with a muscular but slender body. The paws are fine and oval and the coat is short and glossy. The head shape is a modified wedge with a blunt strong chin. The eyes are blue, almond-shaped and slightly slanting. The tail is the characteristic feature of the breed; each hair has its own kink and twist starting from the root. Visually, the tail is not visible but can be felt by touch. This is a silent and very friendly feline. It is very affectionate to its owner and loves to play. A Mekong Bobtail is inquisitive and loyal. [4]

References:
[1] https://www.cat-breeds.com/mekong-bobtail-cat/
[2] https://cat-chitchat.pictures-of-cats.org/2008/10/mekong-bobtail-cat.html
[3] https://www.mekong-bobtail.net/en/about-mekong-bobtail-breed
[4] https://www.petpaw.com.au/cat-breeds/mekong-bobtail

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