Japanese Bobtail

Like our domestic shorthair, Japanese Bobtails are considered domestics in Japan. Though, after America jumped on the bandwagon to consider them a breed, Japan followed. In Japan, they are associated with good luck.
There isn't a record of their origins but the legend is that one cat slept too near the hearth and its tail caught on fire. It ran through the city and all the houses burned down. Angry, the emperor ordered that all cat tails be bobbed so there would be no more fires in the city. These cats were quite prevalent in Japan by the seventeenth century. They could be found in the streets and were used to protect the silkworms from rodents.
Bobtails come in nearly any color but the most popular are the tricolored, red, black and white. These are the kitties that are considered good luck. The Bobtails'  tails more resemble a bunny rabbit's than a lynx. The average length of the tail is four inches, but it appears shorter because it curls up.
These cats are medium in size with lean bodies. Their eyes are large and beautiful. They have a long nose, high cheek bones and a triangular head.
The Japanese Bobtail is intelligent, affectionate, gets along well with children and other animals.
They 'chirp' and like to ride on shoulders. The average weight is around seven pounds. It has little to no health issues and is easy to care for. The average age is fifteen-eighteen.
Japanese Bobtail's claim to fame: It's the inspiration for Hello Kitty.
This is another kitty that is prone to overeating and won't hesitate to beg for more food.
Even though these cats are rare in the states, if you think you might want one, please check out petfinder.com or your local rescue or shelter.