In 1985, Carol Ann Brewer, a breeder in Washington State, had a female cat named Pixie who was polydactyl (with more toes than normal). After mating, possibly with a small bobcat, Pixie produced a litter in which some kittens resembled the father (spotted coat, broad ears etc.). They were called Pixie Bobs. The new breed was recognized by T.I.C.A., which published a standard in 1998. The same year, France also approved the breed.

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