What is the difference between a American Bobtail and a Scottish Straight?

The American Bobtail is 7–16 lbs sized while the Scottish Straight is 6–13 lbs sized. They differ in size (7–16 lbs vs 6–13 lbs), lifespan (13–15 years vs 11–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, American Bobtail or Scottish Straight?

American Bobtail is generally good with kids. Scottish Straight is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, American Bobtail or Scottish Straight?

The American Bobtail has a lifespan of 13–15 years while the Scottish Straight has a lifespan of 11–15 years.

American Bobtail vs Scottish Straight — Breed Comparison

About the American Bobtail

The American Bobtail was developed in the 1960s from a naturally occurring short-tailed kitten found in Arizona. This sturdy, medium-to-large breed weighs 7–16 pounds and has a wild, athletic appearance reminiscent of a bobcat. Their coat comes in both short and long varieties in virtually every color and pattern, with their signature bobbed tail ranging from one to four inches long.

Temperament & Personality

American Bobtails are remarkably adaptable and affectionate cats often described as dog-like in their devotion to family. They get along wonderfully with children, other cats, and even dogs — making them ideal for busy households. Despite their wild appearance, they are gentle, easygoing, and have been used as therapy cats due to their calm, intuitive nature.

Pros

Exceptionally adaptable — adjusts well to travel and new environments
Gentle and patient with children and other animals
Naturally healthy breed with few genetic predispositions
Playful yet not overly demanding — enjoys interactive toys and games

Cons

Can be slow to mature — takes 2–3 years to reach full physical development
Long-haired variety requires regular brushing to prevent matting
Relatively rare breed — may be difficult to find in shelters
Strong prey drive means small pets like birds or hamsters may be at risk

Discover the charm of the American Bobtail — check out adoptable cats of this breed on Puplister.

About the Scottish Straight

The Scottish Straight is the straight-eared sibling of the Scottish Fold, born in the same litters but without the ear-fold mutation. This medium-sized cat weighs 6–13 pounds and shares the Fold's round face, big eyes, and compact build — the only visible difference is the upright, normally shaped ears. They appear in all the same coat types, colors, and patterns as the Fold, from short dense coats to flowing longhair in tabby, solid, bicolor, and more.

Temperament & Personality

Scottish Straights have the same sweet, mellow temperament as their folded-eared relatives — playful without being hyperactive, affectionate without being clingy. They enjoy interactive play and are known for their soft, chirpy voices. Friendly and adaptable, they do well with children, other cats, and cat-friendly dogs.

Pros

Same charming Scottish personality without the ear-fold cartilage concerns
Significantly lower risk of osteochondrodysplasia compared to Fold siblings
Adaptable and easygoing in most household environments
Moderate grooming needs — even the longhair variety is manageable

Cons

Can still carry the fold gene and may pass cartilage issues to offspring if bred with a Fold
Less distinctive in appearance compared to the Fold — sometimes overlooked by adopters
May still inherit some predisposition to joint issues from the breed line
Prone to weight gain without proper diet management and exercise

Want the beloved Scottish personality with healthier ears? Search for Scottish Straight cats on Puplister and give one a loving home.

American Bobtail vs Scottish Straight