The Bobcat rank is the first badge awarded a new Cub Scout. As a new member, he may work on his Bobcat rank requirements while simultaneously working on his next rank as well. He cannot, however, receive his Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, or Arrow of Light badge until he has completed Bobcat requirements and earned his Bobcat badge. Boys can normally earn their Bobcat badge well within the first month of becoming a new Cub Scout.
To earn the Bobcat rank the new Cub Scout does the following:
- Learn and say the SCOUT OATH, with help if needed:
"On my honor, I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my Country and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. "
- Learn and say the Scout Law, with help if needed.
"A Scout is:
Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful
Friendly, Courteous, Kind
Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty
Brave, Clean, and Reverent."
Show the CUB SCOUT SIGN. Tell what it means.
Make the sign with your right hand and with your arm held straight up. The two fingers stand for the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. They look like a wolf's ears ready to listen to Akela. Give the Cub Scout Sign when you say the Scout Oath or Scout Law.
- Show the CUB SCOUT HANDSHAKE. Tell what it means.
Using your right hand, place your first two fingers along the inside of the other scout's wrist. This means that you help each other remember and obey the Scout Oath and Law.
- Say the CUB SCOUT MOTTO. Tell what it means.
"Do Your Best"
Give the CUB SCOUT SALUTE. Tell what it means.
Point your first two fingers of your right hand out straight and close together. Touch the tips of the fingers to your cap or if not wearing a cap then to your eyebrow. A salute is a way to show respect. When you salute a leader (either adult or other scout), you show him or her that you respect their position. When you salute the flag, you show that you are proud of your country.
- With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the booklet,
How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse.
The above items are the basic information that ALL Cub Scouts learn, which is why EVERY boy who enters into Cub Scouting earns the Bobcat Badge.