Let's talk Manx Cats
The Manx is a tailless cat of medium size originating from the Isle of Man. Originally bred to hunt vermin, they are very devoted to their humans, often slipping into the role of watchdog. Or ,“watchcat”. Once they’ve secured all perimeters, the Manx cat enjoys playing, following you around the house, or coming for a cuddle in your lap. Young Manx cats who are socialised will fit well with a household that includes respectful cat-friendly dogs and children, whereas their older counterparts tend to be more settled in their ways.Official name: Manx
Other names: Manks
Origins: Isle of Man
| Shedding level: |
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Warm weather? |  |
| Physical activity needs (high, low, medium): | Moderate | Family pet? * |  |
| Compatibility with other pets: |
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* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
| Baby age: | Birth to 1 month |
| Kitten age: | 1 to 12 months |
| Adult age: | 1 to 7 years |
| Mature age: | 7 to 12 years |
| Senior age: | From 12 years |
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Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
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2 facts about Manx Cats
1. Tail or no tail
Not every Manx cat is tailless. Certain Manx cats can actually have normal-length tails, while others have stumps. Totally tailless Manx cats are referred to as “rumpies”. There are also many folklore stories as to why the Manx often doesn’t have a tail, but inbreeding is the more likely reason.
2. Wobble wobble
Contrary to common belief, the Manx has no issues with balance, even though the breed is predominantly tailless. Part of it is to do with the fact they’ve always been tailless, so you can’t miss what you’ve never had, right? Despite this potential physical setback, the Manx will land on their feet every time.
History of the breed
The Manx is a seasoned cat breed with ancestors believed to have arrived on The Isle of Man via Viking ships. They were one of several founding breeds of the Cat Fancier’s Association (1908) and records of their presence in North America date back to the 1920s.
Much folklore surrounds how the Manx cat lost its tail, but the reality is believed to be inbreeding that led to this genetic mutation. The breed originated on the Isle of Man, a rather remote location, so it’s hard to pin down their ancestry precisely, but the Manx is often traced back to the Norwegian Forest cat.
The International Cat Association recognised the breed in 1979. The Manx remains a relatively popular breed today, especially in North America and parts of the UK, and has garnered a solid reputation as a show cat. What an all-rounder of a breed!
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Manx Cats
1. Ears
Small to medium-sized ears that are wider at the base.
2. Body
Body is round-shaped, muscular, compact and powerful.
3. Coat
A short haired, double coat that comes in all colours.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Manx
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Caring for your Manx
Grooming, training and exercise tips
A Manx does most of the work when it comes to grooming. Their double coat requires just one weekly brush, to keep it nice and soft. A daily brush of the teeth will help maintain good oral hygiene. Nails must be kept trim and ears should be checked frequently to prevent any infections.
The Manx is a playful cat by nature, so 30-60 minutes of exercise per day is not beyond the breed. They can be trained to walk on leash, so if you live in a quiet neighbourhood that is another way to keep them trim.
The Manx is eager to please and devoted to their humans, so training shouldn’t be much of a challenge. They will chase after a ball or play fetch with you, and enjoy the mental stimulation of learning new tricks with their toys.
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All about Manx Cats
Manx cats can get on very well with dogs, once both animals have benefited from proper socialisation and training. They will make great playmates as the Manx displays several dog-like characteristics, such as playing fetch. As to who becomes the family watch-dog/cat, well that’s between your Manx cat and the canines of the household!
The Manx cat prefers to use their melodic trill when communicating with humans or kittens, as opposed to the traditional “meow”. While they are definitely one of the more vocal cat breeds, the Manx will always use their inside voice.
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Cat Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book