MANX CATS SOMETIMES HAVE HEALTH PROBLEMS. Other afflictions include incontinence or constipation, an odd stance, a “hopping” walk, a lack of sensation or paralysis in the hind legs, and malformed pelvic or sacral bones. These birth defects can sometimes be fatal.

7 to 11 inches

These people-oriented kitties are gentle and affectionate. Many fans of the breed associate their playful demeanor with canine characteristics. The Manx cat is also highly intelligent. Similar to the Maine Coon, these cats enjoy the challenge of learning new tricks.

While there is no cure for Manx syndrome, many Sanctuary cats, including those with symptoms like Ori’s, have benefited greatly from physical therapy.

The Manx is a double-coated breed, so whether a specimen is long- or short-haired, his fur is very dense. The long-haired version is known as the Cymric. Originally, only long-haired cats were accepted into the American bobtail registry, but that is no longer the case. Both types come in a variety of colors.

The Manx will have one of four tail types. Rumpies are completely tailless, often with a dimple at the base of the spine where the tail would be. Rumpy-risers have a short knob of tail. Stumpies have a curved or kinked tail stump, and Longies that have tails almost as long as that of an average cat.

The Manx shares its common heritage with all other domesticated cats, the species Felis sylvestrus catus. There are four species in the Lynx genus, including the Canadian lynx (Lynx canadensis), the Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus), the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), and the bobcat (Lynx rufus).

Manx cats do not vocalize often, but they do have a distinctive vocalization. In addition to normal feline purrs and meows, they also produce a trilling sound.

Originally a working cat, the Manx is a fierce, dedicated hunter. They are also extremely protective of their homes.

Coat:

• Length: Short, Long.
• Characteristics: Straight.
• Colors: White, Blue, Black, Red, Cream, Silver, Tortoiseshell, Bluecream, Brown.
• Pattern: Solid color, Tortoiseshell, Bicolor, Tricolor/Calico, Tabby, Ticking, Smoke, Shaded.
• Less Allergenic: No.
• Overall Grooming Needs: Moderate, High.

A Manx cat is usually tailless while some only have stumpy tails. It also has a cradle-shaped head if viewed from the rear side. Manx cats have a playful and affectionate character and they have a distinctive trilling sound or meow.

The breed is highly intelligent with a playful personality—they are very interactive cats that are devoted to their families. In fact, the Manx is often said to be “dog-like” both in their loyalty to their families and their love of play.