Harper Jefcoat
Harper Jefcoat

Manx Cat - Complete Breed Information for Pet Owners

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8 min read

manx cat

On This Page

  • Manx Cat History
  • Manx Cat Physical Attributes
  • Manx Cat Personality & Temperament
  • Manx Cat Health Problems
  • Manx Cat Diet & Nutrition
  • Manx Cat Care & Grooming
  • Manx Cat for Sale
  • Manx Cat for Emotional Support

Do you know what is the distinguishing feature of a Manx Cat? - The tailless feature.

The Manx Cat looks like a typical feline until it turns around and you notice that it has no tail. Manx Cats resemble the British Shorthair because of the obvious no-tail feature.

Many Manx Cats have a small stub tail, but they are best known as being completely tailless. This cat breed comes in a variety of coat colors and patterns. Though completely white Manx Cats are rare and the original coat color combinations are limited. Long-haired variants are considered as a separate breed called the Cymric.

A local term used for the Manx Cat is ‘Rumpy’ or ‘Stubbin’. They are believed to be social, active, and alert. Explore more about the Manx Cat breed in this blog.

Manx Cat History

The Manx is one of the oldest cat breeds that existed for many centuries on the Isle of Man. It is located in the Irish sea. Since the Isle has not any local cat species from which the Manx could be developed.

Still today, there is considerable but a declining percentage of the local cat population in the Isle of Man. It is believed that the domestic cats were introduced there by human settlers

Regardless of how the Manx cats got into the Isle, it is assumed that these cats arrived with their tails intact. It is believed that the tailless feature is due to the mutation with Isle’s domestic cats.

Genetically, the Manx cats and other Feline cat breeds are different from each other. The lack of tail is because of a dominant gene while most other breeds such as Japanese Bobtail have short tails due to the recessive genes. Because of the Isle’s closed environment and limited gene pool, the dominant gene passed quite easily from one generation to another.

People of the Isle unimpressed by the scientific theory of the lack of tail invented their own stories.

Story of Noah & the Ark

One story has it that the Manz was napping when Noah called the animals into the ark. The Manx awakened when Noah was closing the door of the ark. Although she made it into the ark in time, Noah accidentally closed the door on her tail cutting it off completely.

Manx cats rescued themselves from the Spanish Armada ships

Another story is that the breed came from one of the Spanish Armada ships that in 1588 sank off the coast of the isle of man. They have remained for centuries on that island and in recent years brought to the United States.

Manx cats came through trading ships

The exact origin of the Max cat breed has probably been more linked with the trading of ships from Phoenicia to Japan. Many think that the Japanese corkscrew was picked up by these sailors on their journey. They brought back in the ships for catching mice rather than to import a new cat breed.

The modern history of the Manx cat breed is more believable. The Manx was a very popular and well-established breed supported by a group of Manx owners. King Edward VIII was a fan of Manx cats and seen attending cat shows featuring this breed.

The first Manx club was created in 1901. The Manx came to America in 1880 and made it to the earliest American cat registry records. This tailless cat breed was transported from the Isle of Man but the supply decreased because of the increase in demand. Manx cats are rare and this is the reason why these cats are so in demand still today.

The Manx cat was recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1979. The Manx was one of the first cats that appeared in some cat shows in Britain and the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) founded this cat breed in 1906.

Manx Cat Physical Attributes

What does a Manx Cat look like?

Other than the lack of a tail, Manx has also other distinguishing features as well including round eyes, a broad chest, round eyes, etc. Here you can explore all the physical attributes of the Manx cat breed in detail.

Paws
Round paws with 5 toes in front and 4 from behind.
Ears
Medium-sized ears in the right proportion to the head. These are set slightly outward and ending to a rounded tip.
Eyes
Large, round, and beautiful eyes angled towards the nose. Eye colors are gold, copper, green, hazel, blue, or odd-eyed.
Legs
The hind legs of the Manx cats are slightly longer than the forelegs. Longer hind legs cause the rump to be higher than the shoulders. When viewed from behind, hind legs are straight.
Head
Roundhead with healthy cheeks and a cute look that enhances the round appearance of the Manx cat breed. Medium-sized head, well-developed muzzle, and a strong chin. The neck is short and thick.
Coat
The double coat is slightly short and dense due to the long and open outer coat. The texture of the outer hair is hard and the appearance is glossy. A soft coat may occur in white Manx and decrease due to the color gene link.
Body
Medium-sized, strong, and well-balanced body structure. The Manx cats have a broad chest and rounded ribs rather than flattened. The repetition of curves and circles gives Manx durability. Manx cat has a strong flank as compared to other cat breeds. Short back that creates a smooth arch from shoulders to rump making a curve to achieve a required round look. The length of the back is in balance with the entire cat

Although this breed is best known for the lack of a tail, not all Manx are entirely tailless. Some have normal-sized tails known as ‘Longies’ while others have stumps known as ‘Stumpies’. In addition to the variations in their tail length, Manx cats are round in shape.

Manx Cat Personality & Temperament

Personality is one of the main reasons that this cat breed has won the hearts of many. Manx cats can make great pets. They are smart and fun-loving cats who know how to express their feelings when they want something.

Manx cats are best known for their strong bond and loyalty with their chosen human. They enjoy spending time with their owners while sitting beside them in their quiet time or following them around the house.

Manx are great jumpers because of their strong legs. When they want something, they will find a way to get into bookshelves and cupboards.



Some Manx cats give their love to a single person while others are affectionate towards the whole family.

They also get along well with other cats and dogs and love to play with these companions. Despite their energetic and playful nature, they are very gentle. Their playful and gentle nature makes them a great choice of pets for families with children.

The Manx cat is smart and highly intelligent. Challenge his brain, keep him interested, and teach him tricks by providing toys and reward him when he learns how to manipulate them. Choose a cat from a breeder who raises kittens in the home and handles them from an early age.

Manx Cat Health Problems

All animals have the potential to develop certain health problems, just as all people have the tendency to develop certain health issues. Stay away from those breeders who do not offer a health guarantee on kittens or they tell you that the kittens are in isolation for some health reasons.

The Manx cats are generally healthy but they may suffer from certain diseases that you must know about.

  • ‘Stumpies’ have a higher risk of Arthritis.
  • Corneal dystrophy - a rare genetic eye disorder that develops at the age of 4 months.
  • Manx syndrome - a condition that includes a short spine, urinary tract infection, and difficulty with digestion.
  • Another issue is weak hindquarters

Remember when you take a new kitten to your home, it’s your responsibility to protect him from common health issues. One of the most common issues is obesity. You can protect your Manx by keeping him at an appropriate weight for overall good health.

Manx Cat Diet & Nutrition

Like most cat breeds, Manx also required a proper diet including protein, minerals, fats, and water. Work with your veterinarian to decide on the best cat food for optimum health.

Make sure your cat food includes omega 3 fatty acids and fish oil in order to keep the coat in a healthy state. A Manx cat should be given either dry or wet cat food.

Choose food that must have meat in its ingredients. If you are choosing wet food, make sure to warm up as Manx cats are not very fond of chilled meals. You can also mix wet and dry food for enhancing flavor.

You can also give cow’s milk to Manx cats as the lactose could be the reason for digestive issues. You can also offer a pet formula milk in replacement and as an occasional treat.



Manx Cat Care & Grooming

Manx have very dog-like characteristics from fetching objects to burying their toys. This breed will be the happiest when interacting and playing with the family members.

The alert and affectionate cat breed can get along well with everyone and will provide true affection and companionship. They are also great hunters. A house with a Manx cat will not have to worry about the problem of mice.

Manx cats come in various coat colors and patterns. Manx cats come in long-haired and short-haired variants both have double coats. Short-haired variants have an outer coat that is hard and glossy while long hair has a silky coat that is medium in length. Though their double coats make these cats soft to touch, you might need to brush them regularly for removing dead hair.

The Manx cat needs less grooming. You just need to comb or brush it 2 times a week. During the spring and fall seasons, you will need to brush your kitten more often.

Trim nails and clean the ears when needed. Brush the teeth regularly with vet-approved toothpaste for overall health.

Manx Cat for Sale

Not all Manx cats are tailless. Manx to non-Manx breeding usually produces Manx type tail variations in cats.

Some are called ‘Stumpies’ because they have a small stump on a tail. Others are known as ‘Rumpy Riser’ because of the rise of bone at the end of the spine.

Manx cats are one of the most popular cat breeds because of the lack of their tail. Although they are not very common. It cost between $400-$800 if you are looking for a Manx Cat for sale.

Learn about other cat breeds and see which cat best suits your requirements and lifestyle.

Manx Cat for Emotional Support

People love cats for a reason. They are silly, alert, and adorable at the same time. If watching cat videos on Youtube brightens up your day then think about what a real cat can do.

For people who struggle with mental health problems, cats can be a great option for an emotional support animal. They require less attention than dogs and can add an element of fun and joy to each day.

If you are thinking of getting an emotional support cat, the Manx cat is one of the best breeds that you can choose. They are gentle, playful, and love to interact with their owners.

You might also need an ESA letter if you want to enjoy all the benefits of an emotional support animal.

Let’s see if you can qualify for an emotional support cat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Manx cats smart?

FAQ Icon

Manx cats are highly smart and playful. They love to interact with their favorite humans. In fact, Manx is also referred to as ‘dog-like’ cats because of their loyal nature and love for their family.

Are Manx cats talkative?

FAQ Icon

The Manx cats are very talkative. They love to have a conversation with their favorite humans. If you want to own a Manx cat, be ready to have a chat with him on various topics.

When Manx cats be left alone?

FAQ Icon

Kittens should not be left alone for a long period of time. But adult cats can be left alone and they can do well on their own. They will not have any issue being left alone throughout the day which makes an adult cat a better choice if you have a busy lifestyle.

Are Manx cats hypoallergenic?

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Manx cats are not hypoallergenic. Although their shedding level is very low they are most likely to experience moderate level shedding during the summer season. However, the Manx cat breed is not an ideal option for people with serious allergies.

Do Manx cats get along with dogs?

FAQ Icon

There is not much difference between female and male BalineseManx cats are known to act like dogs. They are social and can get along well with dogs and other cat breeds. Manx are playful happy cats that enjoy spending time with their human companions.

 

 

 

Harper Jefcoat

WRITTEN BY

Harper Jefcoat

Harper Jefcoat is a dedicated pet enthusiast and esteemed author at RealESALetter.com. With a profound passion for animals, Harper combines extensive knowledge and personal experience to provide insightful and informative content. Specializing in canine behavior and wellness, he strives to empower pet owners with the tools and understanding they need to nurture and care for their furry friends effectively. Harper’s writings reflect his commitment to enhancing the lives of pets and their owners, making him a trusted voice in the pet community.

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