The Manx cat: everything you need to know

Ever heard of a Manx cat? Possibly not, but you may have seen one. The tailless Manx cats are one of the most distinctive breeds of purr-babies around. They are also one one the oldest types of domestic cats! And, fret not, the lack of length tail-wise is completely natural, in fact some Manx cats can be born with tails. 

Confused? Don’t worry, we’ve gone on the hunt to find out everything pet parents need to know about the mighty Manx cat. From their mysterious history to their delightful demeanor, here are all the key cat facts about the Manx and Manx kittens…

What do Manx cats look like?

Generally, Manx cats are recognized by their lack of tails. This is a genetic mutation passed down from cat to cat. The coloration and patterning of a Manx cat are very varied. They come in many different coat colors, tabby patterns, and calico coats. It’s even possible to find longhaired Manx cats!

Manx cat characteristics

Want to know one of the most adorable facts about these marvelous mitten moochers? There are different names for the length or size of a Manx cat's tail or lack of. Well, be prepared, because these Manx cat characteristics are so cute! A Manx cat is either a…

• Rumpy - these are Manx kitties with no stump or anything outwardly to indicate they could ever be born with a tail.
• Rumpy riser - by far the best name on this list, these are Manx cats that have no stump but a small raised patch of fur where their tail should start.
• Stumpy - rather self-explanatory, this is when a Manx cat has a short or small stump instead of a tail.
• Shorty - some Manx have a stump longer than one inch, so although not a tail, it still has its special name.
• Longy - Manx cats with tails! Yep, some Manx kittens are born with a tail.

Apart from their short-tailed calling card, Manx cats can also be distinguished by their almost perfectly round faces, round eyes, and stocky body shape. Their hind legs are also slightly shorter than their front legs, pronouncing their shoulders more than most cats, as well as making them excellent jumpers.

Health-wise, they can be prone to spinal cord injuries and illness. Corneal dystrophy develops in older Manx cats because of their lack of tails. About 25% of Manx kittens are born with Manx syndrome - a degenerative disorder that can cause issues with the Manx cat’s bladder, hind legs, and spinal cord. Pet parents must always consult their vet regularly to make sure their kitty is healthy and receiving the right care.

Manx cat personalities

What they lack with their short-tailed appearance, the Manx cat makes up for with its outgoing purr-personality. These short-tailed cuties have been compared to dogs because of the love and devotion they show toward their humans. Manx cats will often follow their pet parents around and will never miss an opportunity to jump onto an available lap.

The Manx cat personalities make them ideal for family homes as they’re great with children and other pets. However, although cuddle monsters, they are independent by nature and are fantastic hunters. Manx cats are both the life and soul of the part, whilst also being on the local wildlife’s ‘most wanted’ list.

The ideal home for Manx cats and Manx kittens

Manx cats are easy-going, affectionate, and playful which makes them purr-fect for families of all sizes and ages. Similarly, they bond well with other animals and are generally very sociable fur babies.

As highly intelligent kitties, these guys love to play and need regular stimulation with cat toys and scratching posts. Keep an eye on your mischievous Manx, however, due to their curious cat nature and smarts, they will have no issue with opening cupboards or even doors.

The purr-fect pet parents for Manx cats

They require pet parents who can give them lots of attention and are happy to share their lap, shoulders, arms, and chests with furry Manx friends. Because they have a double coat, the Manx cat requires regular brushing on a weekly or daily basis. You’ll soon notice if you’ve forgotten to groom your malting Manx…

Grooming a Manx cat

Despite most Manx cats having short hair, this breed does malt. The Manx cat has a double coat meaning it regularly sheds, particularly as the seasons change. Be sure to give your Manx kitten or cat a brushing most days for their comfort and to keep your house fluff free.

Longhaired Manx cats will require extra attention to their floor, with some even needing an occasional professional pet groom.

History of the Manx cat

The Manx cat’s legacy is wrapped in mystery and legend, however, most people believe they originated on the Isle of Man, off the coast of England. At least, this is where the breed was first discovered, but they have some fantastic stories of how the breed came to be.

One story suggests the first Manx cats were stowaways on a Spanish Armada ship that sank in the Irish Sea - next to The Isle of Man - around 1588. These clever kitties swam to shore and, after several generations became the Manx cat breed we know and love today.

Another tail originates from the Old Testament story of Noah’s Ark. Apparently, when Noah called all the animals to seek refuge in his Ark, the Manx cat was napping (typical)! However, just as Noah was beginning to shut the Ark’s door, the Manx cat woke up and jumped through the closing doors. Although the Manx made it through, its tail was trapped in the door and so sadly lost it.

A more realistic and less cute version is that they are descendants of the Japanese Corkscrew cats. These short-tailed cousins were used on Japanese trading ships as mousers hundreds of years ago, ships that often went to and from the Isle of Man via the Irish Sea.

What to name your new Manx cat?

If you’re a recent or soon-to-be pet parent of a Manx cat, have you thought about what you may call them? To help, we have a few naming guides to help you find the purr-fect name for your new fur baby. As Manx cats are initially from the UK, perhaps one of these top British cat names would be appropriate. Otherwise, your new kitty may need a unique name to fit its personality. Happy naming!