How to Buy a Manx Cat

A Manx is a stocky and solid cat with a round head and body, widely set ears, broad chest and long back legs. The Manx's defining feature is usually its lack of a tail. This sturdy cat has a double coat and comes in every color and pattern, both short- and long-haired. They are mellow, even-tempered and friendly. They are loyal and people-oriented, and they get along with other animals.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine whether this breed is for you. Manx cats like being part of the family and live into their 20s. You can train them to walk on a leash, and they can learn to fetch. Manx cats love to ride in the car, and unlike other cats, they love the water.

2. Decide whether you want to show the cat or have it only as a pet. The tailless gene is dominant in the Manx. But kittens can come with a full tail, a short tail called a stumpy, a rise known as a riser or rumpy riser or no tail at all. Only tailless Manx (known as rumpies or dimple rumpies) and rumpy risers can be show cats.

3. Visit cat shows and talk to the Manx exhibitors.

4. Purchase from reputable local breeders or get recommendations from other breeders. Breeders can provide photos or video of your potential kitten.

5. Get the cat after 4 months of age. Breeders sometimes will not let the kittens leave earlier because they might develop Manx syndrome. This fatal genetic defect of the spine causes either a fused vertebrae or a gap in the vertebrae.

6. Check to see that the tail is docked and, if not, be prepared to have the tail docked. At 4 to 6 days old, the Manx usually has this procedure done. Around 5 years, the tail's vertebrae may become ossified or arthritic and painful.

Tips & Warnings

• Manx syndrome is a condition causing controversy. The gene causes fewer caudal vertebrae, creating a shorter tail. The gene does not impact the spine above the pelvis, and Manx have the same number of vertebrae as other cats. Excessive breeding for a shorter body causes problems like a shortened upper spine.
• Spina bifida is associated with the Manx. This condition is caused when the neural tube doesn't close, and it is occurring with lesser frequency in all animals.

[Susang6]

on 2/13/2009 I have a Manx and mine is a one person cat, he adores my husband and tolerates me, and our other female cats. I'm sure if he had his way he would rather be the only cat in the house. He is quite vocal, likes to play fetch, and does jumps very high, to the point that the other cats think he's a show off. Nice article on a rare breed of cat.