Can bobcats and domestic cats breed? My cat had bobtailed kittens!

Question

Can a bobcat and housecat breed together and have kittens? Our female cat went missing for 3 days a few months ago and when I found her she was in bad shape. Her hindend was cut up and had a few spots on her neck. We nursed her back to health and noticed she was gaining weight quickly. A month ago she had her first litter, 6 bobtailed kittens. Now every 2 or 3 days we keep seeing a bobcat come in our yard and hang around. Our cat has no fear of him and will lay with it. Is this normal. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year old | 10 lbs

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

While there are many reports of bobcats breeding with housecats I don't believe this has been scientifically proven. It is more likely that your kittens have a gene that causes a shorter tail which is not uncommon in domestic cats. I'm not sure that I'd call it normal for a domestic cat to be comfortable around a wild bobcat and vice versa but it certainly seems plausible.

Can bobcats and domestic cats breed? My cat had bobtailed kittens!

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

Is my female rat pregnant? What are the visual signs of rat pregnancy?

My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

Share