TICA and Purina: males 12-17 lb, females 8-12 lb. PetMD gives 9-17 lb overall; Wikipedia gives an average of about 5 kg. Pixie-bobs keep growing for up to four years.
A big, sturdy cat with a wild, bobcat-like look but completely domestic roots. It has a short tail (at least 2 inches, up to the hock, often kinked), a woolly coat in short or long length, and it is the only breed whose standard accepts extra toes.123
Coloursbrown spotted tabby, from tawny to reddish brown, with small muted spots13
Personality what they are like
A loyal, clever and easygoing companion that likes to follow its people around. It talks in chirps and chatters rather than loud meows, and is usually friendly with children, dogs and other cats.1342
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Enjoys fetch, leash walks and exploring; aim for at least 30 minutes of active play a day.43
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Shorthairs need brushing about weekly, longhairs several times a week, to manage the woolly coat and shedding.14
Home where they are happiest
Appreciates cat trees and interactive toys to burn off energy.4
Company who they like around
Bonds strongly with its family and usually accepts other pets well after a proper introduction.14
The story where it all began
In 1985 Carol Ann Brewer took in a polydactyl spotted kitten with a short tail in Washington State, and later a large male called Keba. Keba's litter with a neighbour's cat produced Pixie, the female after whom the breed is named. Although the founding cats were said to have bobcat blood, DNA testing has not found any, and the breed is considered fully domestic.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
It is the only breed whose standard allows polydactyl (extra-toed) feet, with up to seven toes per foot.1
2
The breed is named after Pixie, its foundation female.1
3
Pixie-bobs chirp, chatter and trill more than they meow.2
4
They can keep growing until about four years old, much longer than most cats.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed is named after Pixie, a female kitten with a wild look and muted spotting, who was one of the original cats in Carol Ann Brewer's breeding program; the name 'Pixiebob' was chosen in memory of her and the breed's bobcat-like appearance.1
Famous ones stars of the breed
Pixie The founding cat of the breed, whose name and appearance inspired the breed's name and standard.1
Keba A rescued short-tailed male who became a foundational sire in the breed's development.1
Silversprings Zeus The first Pixiebob to attain an International Award (IW SGC) in TICA.1
I wake up and trot after my human to the kitchen, chattering softly. After a quick breakfast, we go for a leash walk in the yard, where I sniff every leaf and chase a fluttering butterfly. Back inside, I play fetch with my favorite toy mouse, pouncing and chirping with joy. Later, I curl up on the couch, my head on my human’s lap, purring as they scratch my ears. In the afternoon, I follow them around the house, checking on the dog and the kids. At night, I snuggle into bed, dreaming of tomorrow’s adventures.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
TICA
Exhibition status 1993/1994, New Breed and Colour 1995-1996, championship status from the 1998 show season1
A typical home-care rhythm for a Pixie-bob. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Pixie-bob tip
Pixie-bobs are naturally solid cats, so keep treats to less than 10% of daily calories and use measured meals rather than free-feeding to avoid weight gain. A puzzle feeder or lick mat can make treat time more engaging and slow down fast eaters.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Pixie-bob, and at what times?
Feeding frequency and times vary with your cat's age, weight and activity, so follow the food label and your vet's advice. Most adult cats do well with two meals a day at consistent times.
What should a Pixie-bob eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a balanced commercial cat food that suits its life stage, and always check the label for amounts. Avoid alcohol, yeast dough, chocolate, caffeine, avocado, citrus, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, chives, milk, nuts, raw meat, raw eggs, bones and xylitol, as these can be harmful.5
Does a Pixie-bob need baths?
Baths are rarely needed, only if the coat is very dirty or sticky, as general guidance suggests. Regular brushing usually keeps the coat clean and healthy.6
How often does a Pixie-bob need brushing?
Brush shorthairs about weekly and longhairs several times a week to manage the woolly coat and shedding. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every 7 days.14Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Pixie-bob's claws, and how often?
Trim nails gently, avoiding the quick, and start with no more than two claws per session at first. Furry Diary's plan suggests trimming every 21 days, though general guidance says every ten days to two weeks.6Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Pixie-bob need?
This breed has high activity needs, so aim for at least 30 minutes of active play daily, plus cat trees and interactive toys. Furry Diary suggests daily play sessions.43Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Pixie-bob's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily if possible, as Furry Diary suggests every 2 days as a starting point, and check ears weekly for dirt or redness. For specific techniques, ask your vet. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Pixie-bob live?
A Pixie-bob typically lives 13 to 15 years, with senior years usually starting around age 11. Regular vet check-ups help support a long, healthy life.4Pet Wiki plan
Is a Pixie-bob good with children and other pets?
Yes, this loyal and easygoing breed is usually friendly with children, dogs and other cats, especially after a proper introduction. It bonds strongly with its family and enjoys following people around.1342
Can a Pixie-bob be left alone?
It bonds strongly with its family and may not love long periods alone, so provide toys and enrichment if you're away. How long it can be left varies, so ask your vet or a good breeder for tailored advice.14
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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