Shorthair cat Large size 4-8 kg

Pixiebob

A dog-like, easygoing cat that bonds closely with the family - sturdy and adaptable with modest grooming.

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Find out how this breed matches your household

Quick overview

Large
Size
4-8 kg, 23-33 cm
Moderate
Activity
Playful but not hyperactive
Good
Alone-time tolerance
Confident and fairly independent
Easy
Handling
Trainable, often walks on leash
Low
Coat care
Dense coat, weekly brushing
Excellent
Fit with kids
Robust and gentle with kids
Good
Other pets
Sociable with dogs and cats
Light
Health burden
Generally healthy breed

The Pixiebob typically weighs 4-8 kg, stands 23-33 cm, and lives 13-16 years.

Consider this breed if…

you want a dog-like cat that follows you and greets you at the door,
there are kids at home and you want a sturdy, tolerant cat,
you like the idea of leash walks or clicker training,
you want a companion cat that is playful but not frantic.

Do not consider this breed if…

you want a delicate lap cat that mostly sleeps quietly,
you are away long days and cannot offer any company or enrichment,
you expect a cheap, easy-to-find kitten - this breed is rare and pricey,
you dislike a cat that wants to be involved in everything you do.

A typical day with a Pixiebob

  1. 7:00 · Morning
    Greets you, wants breakfast and attention
  2. 9:00 · Midmorning
    Patrols the home, watches out the window
  3. 13:00 · Noon
    Long nap in a favorite warm spot
  4. 17:00 · Afternoon
    Interactive play or a short leash walk
  5. 19:30 · Evening
    Family time, often on a lap or nearby
  6. 22:00 · Night
    Settles down to sleep near its people

Temperament and training

Sociability Very high
Tolerance of handling High
Playfulness Moderate
Vocality Low
Independence Moderate
Hunting drive Moderate
Common owner mistakes
Assuming a confident cat needs no play or enrichment · Overfeeding a big-framed cat into obesity · Skipping dental care until problems are advanced

Family and environment

Kids Excellent
Robust and patient; still teach gentle handling.
Other cats Good
Generally sociable and gets along with other cats.
Dogs Good
Dog-like nature makes it comfortable around dogs.
Apartment Suitable
Adapts well indoors with play and vertical space.
Seniors Great fit
Affectionate and calm, with easy grooming needs.
First cat Great fit
Easygoing and forgiving of beginner mistakes.
Busy household Suitable
Confident and independent enough to handle bustle.
Health data provided by RealVetCost
Overall health burden Light

Detailed health data - inheritance, prevalence, course, and typical treatment costs - lives in a separate expert database. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice - confirm any decision with your vet.

View the full health profile
Top health concerns
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) Thickening of the heart muscle; genetic screening exists for some lines
Kidney disease Progressive loss of kidney function, more common with age
Dental disease Plaque and gum inflammation; routine dental care helps
Obesity Weight gain from overfeeding and low activity; managed by diet

Similar breeds - by reason

Not visually similar - similar in what they mean for you.

Another sturdy, dog-like short-tailed cat
American Bobtail
A sturdy, easygoing cat with a stubby tail and a dog-like devotion - adaptable and great with family life.
View profile →
Large, family-friendly cat with a similar temperament
Maine Coon
A huge, sociable, dog-like cat - gentle with kids and other pets, with a coat and a heart that both need attention.
View profile →
Robust bobtailed breed with a wild look
Kurilian Bobtail Shorthair
A hardy, playful bobtailed cat with a dog-like streak and easy coat - active and trainable, happiest with things to do.
View profile →

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Pixiebob cost in the US?
Pixiebobs are an uncommon breed, so kittens from reputable breeders commonly run about $1,000-$2,000, with polydactyl or show lines costing more; expect possible waitlists. Across a 13-16 year life, food, litter, and routine vet care typically add $12,000-$18,000 or more, and any chronic condition can add thousands on top.
Are Pixiebobs really part bobcat?
Despite the origin stories, DNA studies show the Pixiebob is a domestic cat with no proven wild bobcat ancestry. The bobcat-like look - short tail, spotted coat, tufted ears - was bred for appearance. It is a fully domestic breed and safe as a normal house cat.
Do Pixiebobs get along with dogs?
Usually yes. The breed is known for a confident, dog-like personality, and many Pixiebobs are relaxed around dogs and even other cats, especially when introduced gradually. Individual temperament still varies, so proper introductions matter.
Why do some Pixiebobs have extra toes?
Polydactyly - extra toes - is an accepted trait in this breed, unlike most others where it is a fault. It is generally harmless, but a reputable breeder should still monitor foot conformation, and polydactyl kittens often cost more.