NAGASAKI, Japan — Bobtail cats are seen as symbols of good luck in Japan, and Nagasaki is famous for these unique felines.
Known locally as “omagari neko” (bent-tail cats) or “kagi neko” (hook cats), these cats have their own society of fans and even a Shinto shrine dedicated to them.
Their tails vary in shape, including hook-shaped tips, curves, or buns, explained Kazuya Hideshima of the Omagari Neko Shrine and the Nagasaki Cat Society. Studies show bobtail cats make up nearly 80% of Nagasaki’s cat population, twice the rate found elsewhere in Japan.
Japanese cats likely arrived from China in the 6th century with Buddhist monks. They served as rat hunters to protect sacred texts on ships.
Nagasaki’s bobtails have roots tracing back to the Dutch East Indies. When Nagasaki was Japan’s only foreign port from the 17th to 19th centuries, the cats helped protect shipments by hunting rats, cultural officials said.
Veterinarian Soshin Yamamoto said the large number of bobtails in Nagasaki is probably due to a genetic mutation that spread in isolation during Japan’s closed era.
He added that bobtail cats live normal lives near humans, as long as they don’t roam like wild cats.
Local residents hope these special cats will attract tourists and boost business.
Tourist Natsuno Kani from Tokyo said she knew Nagasaki was famous for its bent-tail cats. However, artists visiting from Spain and the United States said they were unfamiliar with the species and were excited to spot some during their visit.
Related Topic:
Texas Couple Finds Cat Accidentally Locked in Dog’s Crate
Couple Stops Car to Save Cat With Bag Stuck on Its Head
Rescued Kitten Finds New Lease on Life After Heartwarming Rescue
