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Can a Bobcat Breed With a Domesticated Cat?

Written by: Lindsey Lawson

Last Updated on January 9, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

a bobcat in a forest

Can a Bobcat Breed With a Domesticated Cat?

While they may be hard to catch a glimpse of in the wild thanks to their elusive nature, Bobcats can be found all over the country. With the growing number of wild and domesticated cat hybrids coming into the pet trade, you may be left wondering if Bobcats can breed with domesticated cats.

There have been confirmed reports of Bobcats mating with domesticated cats, but it is important to note that no viable offspring of this type of pairing has been recorded. Any evidence of Bobcat and domesticated cat hybrids has been both circumstantial and anecdotal. Until proper DNA testing reveals otherwise, the science is just not there, yet. However, there are a few domesticated cats that look like Bobcats if it’s the appearance you’re after.

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The 3 Domesticated Cat Breeds That Resemble Bobcats

1. Pixie-Bob

Pixie Bobcat
Image Credit by: Nynke van Holten, Shutterstock
Height:  9-13 inches
Weight: 9-17 pounds
Lifespan: 12-15 years

The Pixie-Bob is the cat breed that most resembles the wild Bobcat. Once rumored to have originated from the pairing of a Bobcat and a domesticated cat, DNA testing proved otherwise, though they are selectively bred to resemble their wild cousins. The breed has received recognition from purebred registries.

The Pixie-Bob is a very muscular cat with a distinct bobtail. They are highly intelligent and easy to train. They are also extremely social and friendly. This cat breed does great with families with other pets and children and is a big fan of mealtime. They tend to be referred to as more dog-like than cat-like.


2. Highlander

Highlander
Image Credit by: Huskyherz, Pixabay
Height:  14-16 inches
Weight: 10-20 pounds
Lifespan: 10-15 years

The Highlander, which is sometimes referred to as the Highlander Shorthair or the Highland Lynx is a newer cat breed that resulted from the cross-breeding of the Desert Lynx and the Jungle Curl. Their tails are either bobbed or very short and they have muscular, athletic physiques.

The Highlander is described as active, playful, and social but also has a gentle side that makes them great family pets. The breed is still very rare and has not yet been officially recognized for championship status by any purebred registries, though they have reached Advanced New Breed status with The International Cat Association as of 2015.


3. American Bobtail

American Bobtail
Image Credit by: OrangeGroup, Shutterstock
Height:  9-10 inches
Weight: 11-16 pounds
Lifespan: 12-15 years

The American Bobtail is a rugged-looking cat with a notable bobtail, resembling the Bobcat. This breed does come in a wide variety of color and coat patterns. They are a very playful and social breed that also has the reputation for being dog-like.

American Bobtails are fun, active, and intelligent. They bond closely with their owners and are friendly with strangers. They do well in homes with other pets and people. They are considered a rare breed and can be quite difficult to find.

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Conclusion

While it has been speculated that Bobcats may mate with domesticated cats, there is no evidence supporting any successful offspring that have resulted from the breeding. Some cat breeds closely resemble the Bobcat, but none are descended from the wild cats.

Only time will tell whether domesticated cats can successfully reproduce with Bobcats. But until further evidence is gathered, one can only speculate.

See also:


Featured Image Credit: milesz, Pixabay

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