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The Pixiebob might not be the most common breed of cat, but it certainly is worth taking the time to get to know. The Pixiebob is medium-to-large in build and can weigh up to 17lbs! This large size makes her look like a wild-child with her brown spotted bobcat-slash-tabby pattern, mascara-eyed markings and stumpy tail (anywhere from 2-6 inches in length). Plus, many Pixiebobs are polydactyl, meaning they can have more than the usual number of toes. If this is enough to entice you into finding a Pixiebob breeder, we don’t know what else is!
The History And Breeding Of The Pixiebob
The Pixiebob is relatively new to the breeding game, with first breeding being around 1986 in Washington State. The breeder, Carol Ann Brewer, sought recognition of these cats from the TICA in 1993, finally gaining Exhibition status in 1994 and Championship status in 1998. They are the only breed allowed to have multiple toes in competition as the polydactylism is part of their distinct breeding.
The domestic Pixiebob looks a lot like a North American Bobcat, but despite this wild look, the Pixiebob is a loyal, loving, and quite relaxed cat. They are active and social, becoming much attached to their owners and other family members, including dogs. They create a strong bond, which makes them enjoy attention, so they are not the best cat for people who are out of the house for long periods in a day.
The Most Dog-Like Breed Of All
If you are a cat person or a dog person, this is the right cat for you. Because of the breeding, Pixiebobs are quite dog-like in their affections and loyalty, love of the fetch game, fondness of water and car rides, and the ability to do well on a leash. Since these cats are a rather uncommon breed, finding one is essentially done through a breeder. Rescues and shelters are not likely to have these pretty kitties, but it’s a good idea to check just in case. Always discuss the health and history of the breed with whoever is in care of the cat now, especially if it is the breeder.
All Good Cats Deserve Good Cat Food
One great thing about the Pixiebob is that they are generally in very good health and are not prone to anything out of the ordinary, often living long and healthy lives. Finding a wellness cat food for your Pixiebob simply requires knowing the difference between the good ingredients and the not-so-good ingredients.
The Not-So-Good; Ingredients to steer clear from:
- Corn (in its many forms). Whole ground corn, corn gluten meal, and corn meal are often found in dry cat food. This is used as a filler and while it can provide a source of protein, it can cause allergies in some sensitive cats. Since cats are carnivores they do not digest plant based proteins like they do animal based proteins and stomach discomfort can sometimes occur.
- Whole wheat. Though the cat food industry says that wheat is a good source of energy-providing carbohydrate, wheat and wheat by-product is a very common allergen for cats. Cats are not able to digest grains nearly as well as humans or dogs, so many cats may also experience digestion issues if given too much wheat.
- Artificial colors and flavors. Artificial flavor is usually derived from petroleum and contains many chemical ingredients. Artificial colors including red, yellow, and blue have been linked to hyperactivity, aggression, brain tumors, allergic reactions, adrenal gland tumors, and insomnia
- BHA/BHT. These are preservatives that have been banned in human foods in many countries due to cancer risks, but remain approved for use in pet foods. They are extremely controversial ingredients in all forms of pet food.
- Meat by-products. By-products are carcasses and parts of carcasses from slaughterhouses, animal shelters, zoos and veterinarians, and products of animal origin not intended for human consumption, including catering waste. Unless you know what kind of by-product it is specifically (such as chicken or pork) and that it is from a very reputable pet company, this is not something we recommend you feed your cat or any other pet.
The Most Important Ingredients
- Meat (including meat meal). Chicken, beef, duck, turkey, fish, rabbit; these are all excellent sources of protein, which is what your cat wants and needs to thrive. Look for whole meat or meal, which is just dehydrated meat and full of protein.
- Fats (chicken, beef, pork). Fat is a quality source of essential fatty acids and an excellent source of energy. Fat has a positive effect on the immune system and plays a beneficial role in stress response. Essential fatty acids are required for proper growth.
- Taurine. Taurine is an essential amino acid that is critical for normal heart muscle function, vision, and reproduction in cats. Since cats are unable to create proper levels of taurine in their body naturally, it must be supplemented in their food.
Good Ingredients To Add
- Alfalfa Meal is a rich mineral food that has trace minerals such as zinc, iron, and manganese
- Apples provide an excellent source of pectin, a water- soluble fiber.
- Barley is a starchy carbohydrate that supplies healthy nutrients such as fiber and gives your cat sugar level stability.
- Cranberries are high in vitamin C, vitamin E, and fiber. This ingredient may assist with urinary tract infections and help with dental hygiene by killing certain bacteria.
- Flaxseed is a source of healthy fat, antioxidants, and fiber; modern research has found evidence to suggest that flaxseed can also help lower the risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
- Sweet potatoes provide a great source of potassium, vitamin B, and beta-carotene. This ingredient also provides antioxidants that specifically help to fight against cancer causing agents.
- Blueberries are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. This ingredient is thought to help or prevent certain forms of cancer, dementia, heart disease, and asthma.
There are many brands of wellness cat food on the market that contain these ingredients and more, with nothing that your Pixiebob doesn’t need. Good options to try are those from
- By Nature
- Wellness
- Solid Gold
- Orijen
- Blue Buffalo
- Natural Balance
- Evo
Take good care of your Pixiebob by treating her like a member of the family and feeding her wellness cat food. It’s one positive relationship you’ll have for a very long time.
