Manx Breed Description

Introduction

This cat is known for its round head, muzzle and tailless stocky body. The Manx has a short back and long hind legs that make them appear rabbit-like. It has a short, dense coat that comes in a rainbow of colors. They can be known as a "one person cat" or the "family cat". Once they bond with someone, it is difficult for many Manx to be happy in a different home.

History of the Breed

The Manx cat breed is believed to have originated in the early 1700s from Isle of Man (which they are named for) where they are commonly found. They are called 'Stubbin' in the Isle's native Manx language. Folk beliefs say the Manx came from a ship of the Spanish Armada that foundered on what became known as Spanish rock off the Isle of Man coast. According to the legend, the Manx cat, which had boarded the ship in the Far East, became a well-known breed after it swam ashore from the ship. The tail-less gene in Manx is dominant; their kittens are usually born without tails. It is semi-fatal to have two dominant gene copies and that is the reason why such kittens are spontaneously aborted. Therefore, Manx can only carry a single copy of the dominant gene. Many legends present stories and theories about why the Manx cat does not have a tail, including one that claims Noah closed the ark's door as the cats came on board, accidentally cutting off the tail. Another legend suggest that Manx is an offspring of a rabbit and a cat and that is the reason for the missing tail. Their rabbit shaped body is the so-called evidence of that particular tale.

General Description

The Manx cat has longer hind legs than the front legs; this creates a flowing arch from the rump to the shoulders. The cat has a rounded appearance and has smaller ears than that of other cat breeds. They come in varying colors including calico, tabby, tortie and all strong coat colors. Manx has a round shaped head and the cat is very expressive with a small nose and cute eyes. The cat is classified according to the length of the tail; therefore there are classifications such as rumpy, riser, stumpy tailed and stubby. Manx cats have a double length coat. (A short haired cat has double coat with coarse guarded hairs, while long haired cats have a silky double coat.)

Temperament

Manx cats are very playful and can jump very high. It is normal to find these cats perching on the highest point in the room. Due to the strong hind quarters some owners compare the Manx to a graceful sports car with quick turns and accelerations. The Manx cat shows some dog-like traits, often burying and retrieving their toys. .

Health and Care

Manx syndrome a condition which affects the Manx cats when the spine is shortened too much by the malformed tailless gene. This condition can cause severe nerve and spinal cord damage, which may in turn result in spinal bifida and other problems such as digestion, bladder and bowels complications. Cats affected by Manx syndrome can only live for three to five years. In most cases, this condition is caused by breeding practices and that is the reason why most cats are held until they are four months old when the disease can be identified. The Manx breed are also affected by corneal dystrophy and intertrigo. Despite the absence of the tail, the Manx cat has no balance problems due to the round features and long legs.

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