Manx Cats

Among other things, Manx cats are most clearly recognized by their short or, more properly, missing tail, though some have full length tails and not all tailless cats are Manx. It is widely held that this characteristic is produced by a genetic mutation that occurred in a group of cats isolated on the Isle of Man, hence the name.

Mythology, history and origins of the Manx cat
Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) Breed Article on the Manx cat
Cat Fanciers' (not the CFA) Manx FAQ

For those looking for a good house cat, a connected Manx breeder community exists where one might find a desired pet. However, allow me to suggest that readers please consider adopting a homeless cat before turning to a breeder even if you're looking for a particular breed or coloration. After all, beauty is only skin deep.

Finding a properly socialized kitty at "the pound" with a good temperment is a hit or miss proposition; you'll have to make that call when you visit. We have recently adopted a Persian off the street who has the sweetest personality so we have been lucky twice in that respect. (She was probably dumped as was, we strongly suspect, Alva.) Ask your friends, neighbors and co-workers. In many cases you will find they know someone whose lifestyle has changed such that they can no longer care for their pet (perhaps health concerns or lease restrictions) or they have allowed her to become pregnant and cannot keep the kittens. You might also try a breeder as some rescue stray cats and kittens on a regular basis. (I am awed by their devotion to the species.)

Please choose to not contribute to the feline population problem. Spay or neuter your pets regardless of their origin. You may think it cruel to your friend, but it is a vastly greater kindness to his or her species. (Obviously I address neither show nor breeding cats.)

If you do select a Manx to share your life, be aware of certain disorders that can occur, sometimes even in carefully bred litters. Spinal problems can result when two tailless Manx cats are bred. It is commonly held that this is the result of a homozygous representation of a dominant gene that controls the absent or short tail characteristic of the breed. A Dr. Bruce shows an example model for this, but I suggest that some of his conclusions be taken as conjecture from their apparent lack of experience with the breed. For the more scientifically-minded (and those with a library card), the Cat Genome Project has an interesting animal model with a reference under "spina bifida." Clearer references supporting or denying this theory are appreciated.

Many reputable breeders will keep their kittens until about four months of age by which time problems should have manifested and the kitten's quality of life can be assessed. Your breeder may also allow for some sort of contingency exchange in certain cases. A vast majority of breeders are very concerned with their cats' health and welfare (even after leaving the cattery) and it is their interest to produce happy, healthy kittens. You will get a good feel for this even after a short interview. Experienced Manx breeders can produce healthy litters over their entire careers without significant manifestation of these disorders.

Back to my cat, Alva