Manx

Overview

Overview of Manx Cat

The Manx cat may look like many cats we know and love, but something is missing - their tail! Many speculate about how the Manx lost its tail. Some say that the Manx cat was running late for Noah's Ark, and when Noah slammed the door, he accidentally severed the poor cat’s tail in the process! These kitties get their name from where they come from - A Manx is anyone that hails from the Isle of Man, a self-governing island between Great Britain and Ireland. Manx cats are so beloved in their island nation, that they have been adopted as a symbol of national pride, even appearing on postage stamps! Not all Manx cats are born completely tail-less though; the gene for tail length is called “incomplete dominant”, so kittens in the same litter can have a full tail or no tail at all. The tail can also come in four different lengths: a completely tail-less kitty is known as a "rumpy”. Whereas a cat with a tiny stump is known as a "rumpy riser". A partial tail that can be curled or kinked is known as a "stumpy," and lastly, a "longy" is a kitty with a full-length tail. Only the rumpy (no tail), or a rumpy riser (a tiny stump tail), can compete in CFA cat competitions. You'll find Manx cats in coat colors such as red, white, and black to shaded silver. There are longhaired Manx cats called Cymrics that some cat fanciers' associations recognize as a separate breed. Despite not having a tail, this medium-sized (8-12 lbs) kitty has terrific balance and agility. With round heads, eyes, and cheeks, and a short body with hind legs much longer than their front legs, you can tell that you're looking at a Manx cat because their roundness makes them look like a bunny rabbit!