A Wild Lynx in Your Home or Who is Pixie-Bob

The Pixie-bob is a mysterious American cat breed. Although it originated quite a long time ago, it is still considered relatively young among officially recognized breeds today. References to Pixie-bobs can be found in works by various American authors, including Ernest Hemingway. The Pixie-bob resembles a small lynx with a mesmerizing gaze, a sturdy body, and a short tail.

Origin of the Pixie-bob Breed

In 1985, a cat enthusiast from the Pacific coast bought a short-tailed cat with extra toes. This cat was bred with a neighboring spotted cat that resembled wild cats. The result was a lynx-like kitten named Pixie, who became the foundation of the Pixie-bob breed.

Appearance of the Pixie-bob

Pixie-bobs truly resemble a wild lynx that has wandered into your home. While they may look fierce, their temperament is far from wild. These cats share some traits with North American lynxes, such as their short, bobbed tails, which range from 2 to 15 cm in length. Regardless of tail length, Pixie-bobs have thick, double-layered fur with colors ranging from dark yellow to reddish-brown with muted spots.

Interestingly, nearly 50% of Pixie-bobs have polydactylism, meaning they have extra toes. While normal cats have five toes on their front paws and four on their back paws, Pixie-bobs with polydactylism can have up to seven toes per paw and a total of 28 toes. This trait was inherited from the original breed founder.

Personality Traits

Pixie-bobs love to play and are active at any time of day. They are loyal to their owners and enjoy constant interaction, making a wide range of sounds—from chirps to growls. Intelligent, social, and bold, Pixie-bobs combine a seemingly stern appearance with a laid-back, friendly personality. They are affectionate and playful with children, rarely scratching or displaying aggression.



These cats are also known for their love of water, which is believed to stem from their wild ancestry or dog-like nature. Pixie-bobs enjoy walking on leashes, which has earned them the nickname “dogs in disguise.” They greet their owners at the door and are known to form deep bonds with their families.

Care and Maintenance

Pixie-bobs are large cats that require typical health care, though they are generally free from common feline diseases. Special attention should be paid to their polydactyl paws. This breed matures slowly, and litters usually consist of two to three kittens, though larger litters can occasionally occur.

Globally, Pixie-bobs are still a rare breed. In the United States, they are considered a national treasure, and their export is not encouraged. Additionally, these cats dislike long trips, which has limited their spread to other countries.

Despite the challenges in breeding and spreading the breed, Pixie-bobs have retained many traits from their wild ancestors, making them a truly unique breed with distinctive characteristics.