The Pixie-bob Cat is a unique breed with a bold, bobcat-inspired look and a personality that’s anything but wild. With their muscular bodies, short tails, and softly ticked tabby coats, Pixie-bobs might remind you of a little wildcat—but they’re 100% domestic and full of love.
Known for being gentle, loyal, and deeply bonded to their families, Pixie-bobs are a rare treasure in the cat world. Whether they’re following you from room to room or chirping softly to say hello, these cats bring a calm, grounded presence to any home.
Quick Breed Facts
- Origin: Washington State, USA
- Breed registries: TICA (Championship), CFA (Miscellaneous)
- Weight range: 8–17 pounds
- Lifespan: 13–16 years
- Coat: Short or long, soft and thick
- Colors and patterns: Brown spotted tabby, melanistic, silver
- Eye color: Gold, green, hazel
- Grooming: Low to moderate
- Activity level: Moderate to high
- Affection level: Very affectionate and loyal
- Vocality: Quiet to chirpy
- Good with children: Yes
- Good with other pets: Usually, especially dogs
History & Origin
The Pixie-bob’s story starts in the backwoods of Washington State in the 1980s, when breeder Carol Ann Brewer came across a short-tailed male cat with a bobcat-like look. According to Brewer, that cat mated with a neighbor’s barn cat and produced a litter of kittens with wild appearances. One of those kittens, named Pixie, became the foundation of the breed.
Even though DNA tests haven’t confirmed any bobcat ancestry, the breed was carefully shaped to keep that wildcat charm—minus the wild. In 1998, the International Cat Association gave the Pixie-bob full championship status, while the Cat Fanciers Association still lists it in the miscellaneous class.
Personality & Temperament
Despite their fierce looks, Pixie-bobs are known as softies at heart. These cats form strong bonds with their humans and often follow them around the house like a shadow. Their personality is frequently described as dog-like—they can be trained to walk on leashes, enjoy car rides, and even play fetch.
They’re generally quiet, though some make soft chirps or trills instead of loud meows. This combination of affectionate loyalty and calm confidence makes them wonderful family pets for people who want an intelligent and interactive cat.
Appearance & Coat
The Pixiebob Cat looks like it was plucked right out of the wilderness. It has a powerful, muscular body, a deep chest, long legs, and a distinctively wild face. Most have short, stubby tails, though some are born with long tails. The breed allows natural tail variation, from full-length to completely bobbed.
The coat can be either shorthair or longhair, always thick and soft with a woolly texture. They come in various spotted tabby patterns—typically brown spotted tabby or silver spotted. Melanistic Pixiebobs, though rarer, do exist and add to the breed’s exotic allure.
Activity & Play
Pixie-bobs are moderately active and need regular playtime to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy puzzle toys, feather wands, and climbing furniture. While they aren’t as hyper as some high-energy breeds, they still appreciate stimulation and will get bored without it.
They often get along well with children and even other pets, including dogs—especially if introduced at a young age. Because they’re smart and curious, they enjoy exploring their environment and learning new tricks.
Grooming & Care
Whether shorthaired or longhaired, Pixiebobs are fairly easy to groom. A weekly brushing is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and reduce shedding. Longhair varieties may need a bit more attention to prevent mats, especially during seasonal changes.
Like all cats, they’ll also benefit from regular nail trims, dental care, and ear checks. Most Pixie-bob Cats enjoy the bonding time grooming brings—especially if you start while they’re kittens.
Health & Lifespan
Pixiebobs are generally healthy cats with lifespans of 13 to 16 years. Because they’re a natural breed developed with some outcrossing, they tend to have fewer inherited health issues than overly inbred pedigrees. However, responsible breeders screen for potential issues like cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) and hip dysplasia.
As with all cats, regular checkups, a balanced diet, and mental stimulation are key to a long and happy life. Some Pixiebobs are polydactyl—born with extra toes—which is considered part of the breed standard in TICA.
Family Compatibility
If you want a companion cat that’s devoted, affectionate, and a little bit wild-looking, the Pixie-bob might be your match. They thrive in homes where they get lots of attention, gentle handling, and enrichment. They’re known for being calm around kids and often do well in multi-pet households.
Because of their social nature, they do best in homes where someone is around often—or where they have a friendly pet sibling to hang with. They’re also a great choice for people who want a cat that’s both independent and interactive.
Recommended Supplies
Pixie-bobs may have a rugged, wild look, but their needs are pretty simple. A mix of mental stimulation, cozy rest spots, and reliable daily care makes all the difference. Since they’re intelligent and playful, they thrive with interactive toys and safe places to explore or perch.
You’ll also want to stock up on practical tools for grooming and general wellness. Even though they’re low-maintenance overall, a good brush and comfortable bed can go a long way in keeping your Pixie-bob content—and keeping your home tidy. Here are a couple of our favorite go-to supplies:
Pixie-bob Cat FAQs
Are Pixie-bob cats part bobcat?
Nope! While the breed was inspired by a cat that looked like a bobcat, DNA tests have not confirmed any wildcat ancestry. They’re 100% domestic—but definitely carry a wild look.
How much does a Pixie-bob Cat cost?
The Pixie bob cat price ranges from $800–$2,500 depending on pedigree, coat length, and breeder reputation. Show-quality or rare melanistic Pixiebobs may cost more.
Can Pixie-bob Cats have long tails?
Yes! Although many are born with bobbed or stub tails, some Pixie-bob Cats have full-length tails. This is still accepted in the breed standard and doesn’t disqualify them.
Are Pixie-bobs hypoallergenic?
They are not considered hypoallergenic. While they shed less than some breeds, they still produce the proteins (like Fel d 1) that trigger cat allergies.
Where can I adopt a Pixiebob Cat?
You can try Pixie-bob rescues, breed-specific adoption groups, or local shelters. Search terms like “Pixie bob cat adoption” or “Pixiebob rescue near me” may help. Also try general cat adoption resources on our site.
Is the Pixie-bob Cat Right for You?
The Pixie-bob is a gentle giant with a fierce look and a heart of gold. With their striking bobcat-like features, playful spirit, and deep loyalty, they’re perfect for cat lovers who want something a little different—but not too wild. They’re just as happy lounging on the couch as they are chasing toys across the room.
If you’ve got room in your heart (and your home) for a rare but affectionate breed, the Pixiebob Cat just might be your perfect match.
