History & Origin: The Manx is a centuries-old breed that developed naturally on the Isle of Man, in the Irish Sea between England and Northern Ireland. A spontaneous mutation probably occurred that resulted in the birth of a tailless kitten that survived and reproduced on the island. These cats are famous for being good mousers and are still kept by farmers living on the Isle.
Character & Temperament: The Manx is a bit of a devil and also a little bit of a clown. These lively cats are very intelligent and playful, and can be taught to fetch balls or walk on a lead. They are accomplished climbers and hunters and remain playful until an old age. Loving and affectionate, they get along well with other cats and dogs-and tend to develop an especially strong bond with one member of the family.
Color: All colors normally found naturally in European domesticated cats.
Coat Type: Manx have either a short-haired or a semi long-haired coat.
Grooming: In general, this breed's coat does not require a great deal of care in regards to grooming. Brush it once a week-more when shedding. Claws should be trimmed and ears cleaned only when necessary.
Health Considerations: Can carry genetic deformities such as Spina Bifida and cartilage weaknesses.
Trivia: As with all ancient breeds, it is surrounded by many fanciful stories, mostly about why it has no tail. One story suggests that the Manx has no tail because it is the result of mating between domestic cats and rabbits. Another claims a pair of Manx were the last two animals to board Noah's Ark and nearly missed the boat after insisting on one last mousing trip before the ship set sail. As they hopped aboard, Noah accidentally closed the ship's heavy door and severed their tails.
Chance is a 3 year old Japanese Shorttail/Manx Mix. I rescued Chance from a heartless "owner" (how I detest that title) who would not take him to the vet when he was hurt.
My neighbor rescues kittens and puppies and older dogs. She had these three kittens from a lady who had to go to a rest home. I told her I would foster them until they could find a good home.
Mr. Calhoun is a 6 years old Manx with a stubby tail, a bulls eye, and an orange and white coat. Calhoun and I became roommates, since I lived in my first place alone during my senior year of college.
Dancin' Girl is a 7 year old Manx. Six years ago, this little girl came down for food. She was at first eating the bread I threw out for the birds.
We've had Nemo since he was just a kitten. My kids picked "Nemo" and his brother "Margaret" from a litter of 5 kittens. They were both born without tails which made them very unique in the litter of 5 kittens. Nemo's hobbies are sleeping, eating, and snuggling then more sleeping and eating. He likes his catnip too!
The mommy cat's owner went to a rest home, and my neighbor took the mom in and she had four kittens. They were all placed except for this one, who has a genetic disability.
This is Chance. We think he is about 2 or 2 1/2 years old. His previous owners (how I detest that word) said he is a Manx, but in looking around I am more apt to say he is a Japanese Short-tail.
Orange Blossom is a 4 month old Manx kitten. I have the mother, she had a small litter. He likes to run around the house, and play with his sister and mom!