Manxes are the famous “tailless cats” from the Isle of Man, centered in the Irish Sea. Hundreds of years ago, this mutation arose in the island’s population of cats, and through isolation, has become a distinct breed with unique characteristics and personality.

Best of Breed Shorthair GC, BW, NW KT OF KC MASON’S DIXON, Brown Mackerel Tabby-White Male Manx

Manxes, also known as the Cyrmic Cat if longhaired, actually come in varying degress of tail-lessness, from the “rumpy” type which has only a dimple where the tail should be, to a full tail. While the tailless gene is dominant, is it is also lethal to the subsequent kittens when fully expressed, because of spinal development problems. Thus, Manx and Cyrmic breeders have to walk a tightrope of genetic crossing to keep their kittens healthy, and kitten seekers usually have a range of tail lengths to choose from.

Manxes are Manxes no matter what their tails look like. The highset hindquarters give them their distinct rabbit-like appearance, and their heads, eyes, and ears are large and round. Any lack of tail length does not give them difficulties, as they are great mousers and as capable of pouncing and leaping as any other cat. Their hind legs are longer than their front legs, giving them a rounded body shape and a hoppy stride.

Manxes also have no difficulty landing on their feet, as righting themselves in midair is more a function of their inner ear. They grow up without a tail, adjusting their moves accordingly. The tail “moves” are there, expressed at any length, as “stumpies” will hold their tails upright when they are happy, and tuck it in when wary, as any cat will.

Manxes also have their own personality, as they are known for “doglike” qualities like enjoying playing fetch and devotion to their family. Other cats can have these traits, but Manxes have it as part of their breed. I’ve found Manxes to have a quiet sense of mischief about them. They know they have a humorous appearance, and have handled it by enjoying the joke themselves.

They express it not by being showoffs, but by allying themselves with their people, who can be trusted to not take the joke too far. They are playful but not overly rowdy, dignified without being stuffy. They have the Beta traits of companionship and flexibility, handling other living creatures with quiet aplomb.

Their favorite toys are prey-like, and they love the hunt. They have been known to bring down prey much larger than themselves, and will enjoy the bigger stuffed animals, properly manipulated, as a challenge. This knowledge of their ability gives them confidence that should be respected. They come up with little games they love their people to play. Being a friend, and regarding the Manx as an equal, is an important part of being a Manx person. Do not tease or make fun of them; this is not what Manx friends do.

Since the Manx gene is dominant, it’s possible to find Manx-like mixed breeds if we look for their rounded bodies and heads. If we want a purebred, it’s even more important than most breeds to find an ethical breeder who cares about their cats, since poor crossings can create kittens who will have health problems. We can also explore Manx Rescue Contacts. Use Petfinder.com to see if there’s one nearby, just waiting for a home.

Since the Manx is most known for their lack of a tail, there’s often misconceptions about the breed. A cat lacking all or part of their tail is not necessarily a Manx. Manxes can also be born fully tailed, though tail docking is often a practice so the kittens will conform to what people expect of the breed. Despite this reputation, there’s much more to a Manx than the size of their tail. Their devotion, tenacity, courage, and adorable appearance is really what they are about.

That is what they should be treasured for.

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