The Manx Cat

The Manx cat developed on the Isle of Man off the coast of England where it is believed that some cats may have been left behind from a ship wreck of the Spanish Amada in 1588. A tailless mutation occurred and, isolated on the island, was able to prosper. This was one of the first breeds recognized by the CFA in 1908 and is one of the most easily recognized felines in the world. The "rumpy" has no tail at all and is the desired show specimen. A "riser" may have a small amount of cartilage that is not visible as a tail, but can be felt under the skin. A "stumpy" has a small visible tail, and a "longy" has a tail over 2 inches. Only the rumpy and the riser are permitted in the show ring, but all Manx cats should be welcome as lovely pets.

 

 Cool Cat Facts...
The ideal show-quality Manx has no tail bones at all, and an actual depression can be seen in the fur where the tail would otherwise have been.
                          This desirable dent is called a "dimple" !                                                                      

Is A Manx Cat Right For You?

The Manx cat is recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), the world's largest cat organization. and is one of the most recognizable pure-bred or "pedigreed" domestic cat breeds. These cats are round bodied, round headed and stockily built. The hind legs are noticeably longer than the front. The coat comes in any color or pattern. The fur may vary in length, and in some breed associations the long-haired variety is shown as a separate breed called a Cymric cat. Regardless of length, the coat is thick with a plush undercoat. Shedding may be high and regular grooming is desired. These are sturdy medium-sized cats that do have some breed-related health issues that require caution when choosing a breeder. They are not fussy and will adapt to many situations, enjoy car rides, visits from strangers and an active family. This breed is notoriously long-lived often reaching the high teens and twenties. Because it is relatively active and enjoys interaction the Manx cat is a great family cat that does particularly well with considerate children. They have been known to be vigilant about their homes and will warn of intruders and other dangers,  and they are very fine mousers.                                                                            

Manx Cat Breed Standards

Head Shape: The head should be slightly longer than it is broad, with prominent cheeks, [also stud jowls in the male] which make it appear rather round. There should be a break at the whiskers with large, round whisker pads. Well developed muzzle, moderate in length and width, with a strong chin and short, thick neck. Profile: There is a gentle nose dip. Ears: Medium in size, rather wide at the base and tapering gradually to a rounded tip, with heavy furnishings inside. The Manx may have ear tufts at the tip which make the ears appear pointed; this is permissible. Ears are rather widely spaced and are set slightly outward so that, when viewed from behind, they resemble the rocker of a cradle. Eyes: Eyes should be round and full, set at a slight angle [outer corner a little above inner corner]. The ideal eye color conforms with the requirements for color of coat, but should only be considered if all other points are equal.
Body and Tail: Medium to large in size, compact, with a short back that arches up from the shoulders to haunches. Sturdy bone structure. Stout in appearance, with broad chest; surprisingly heavy when lifted. Legs: The hindlegs should be longer than the forelegs, making the rump higher than the shoulders. The hindlegs should have substantial bone and should be straight, when viewed from behind. The cat should have muscular thighs. The soundness of the legs should be judged by watching the cat's movement when stepping back into the cage. Feet: Round and firm, with 5 toes in front and 4 in back. Ideally, the cat should appear tailless. There is no penalty for a rise of bone or cartilage which does not stop the judge's hand when the palm is stroked down the back and over the rump.
Coat: The coat should have a soft, well-padded quality due to the longer open outer coat and the thick close undercoat. Shiney, clean and thick. The long-haired version of this cat is called a Cymric and is a seperate breed with virtually the same resume.
Pattern: All colors and patterns accepted.
Overall Appearance: This should be a medium-size cat with a round head and firm, full body. The rump rising up from the shoulder, topped with a bobtail or completely lacking a tail, is a distinctive, classic silhouette. Very friendly, adaptable to many living situations and a childs best friend.

Inside Cat or Outside Cat?

Wondering if you should allow your cat to go outside unsupervised? Well there are definitely some pure breeds that should never be outside cats. Hairless breeds like the Sphynx are extremely vulnerable and should always be supervised outdoors. Docile breeds like the Burmese may not be able to defend themselves. All cats allowed outdoors are exposed to diseases and parasites that they would not otherwise encounter. Fred Flintstone put his saber-tooth out every night, but the cat jumped right back in the window - and he was a saber-tooth! Still, most of us feel a little envy when we see our domestic companion out on some high perch, sniffing the breeze of liberty, and there is no doubt that cats love their freedom. So what do YOU think ....Inside Cat or Outside Cat? Comment Here...

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