- Cat Breed Facts
- Status: This cat is recognized under the Championship Class.
- Size & Weight: They can grow up to 8-12 pounds.
Coat: There are long haired and short haired Manx cats. Their undercoat is short and dense while the overcoat is soft and either long or short. - Head & Muzzle: They have round heads with prominent cheeks. The muzzle is slightly long and they have a strong chin. They have large and round eyes.
- Body: They have medium sized and muscular bodies. They have short and arched backs. They can have no tail to long tails, but only the tailless breed is allowed in competitions.
- Colors: All colors are allowed. They come in a variety of patterns and colors. The usual colors are red, black, brown, white and cream.
- Life Expectancy: They usually live up to 10-12 years.
- Popularity: This is a popular cat among households in England and America.
- Habitat: The Manx cat feels comfortable indoors and also outside.
- Country of Origin: These cats have originated on the Isle of Man, an island near England.
- Lineage: The ancestors of this breed are not known.
- Date Admitted to CFA: The breed was admitted to the CFA in the early 1920s.
- Historical Information: Manx cats are believed to have existed on the Isle of Man 300 years ago. Many ships with cats on board used to dock on the isle and the exact date of origin of these cats is not known.
- Training Ease: These cats can be trained easily as they are playful and active.
- Temperament: Manx cat is a friendly and social cat. They are playful and their behavior resembles that of a dog.
- Tolerance to Children: They feel comfortable with children when they are used to children from their early stages. They might be tolerant with children but are usually scared by the child's sudden movements.
- Behavior: When there are several Manx cats in the house they tend to chase each other.
- Health Issues: The absence of the tail in this breed is the cause of Manx Syndrome, a very serious spinal problem. Manx syndrome can appear anytime, at birth or within 4 months after the kitten is born.
- Feeding: When feeding the cat with supermarket cat food, make sure it has good amount of vitamins, amino acids, fats and minerals.
- Exercise Needs: They are playful cats and get exercised by playing.
- Grooming Needs: Very minimal grooming is needed for this cat. Their coat can be brushed, without damaging it, by using a soft brush or a wide toothed comb.
- Special Household Needs: A cat tree will be useful for the cat's scratching nature and for its exercise.
- Travel Needs: A cat carrier should be used while traveling. Have the litter box, feeding dishes and some toys with you to make the cat feel comfortable in a strange place.
- Getting Along With Other Pets: Manx cats get along with other pets very well.
- What To Look for in a Healthy Cat: Manx cats are prone to Manx Syndrome and the kitten should be checked for this before choosing him.
- What You Will Need for a New Cat: Get your new cat a litter box, feeding dishes, water bowls and some toys.
- Cat-Proofing your House: Garbage, small items that might be swallowed, electric cords and toxic plants should be kept away from the kitten.
- How to Make Your New Cat Feel at Home: Kittens should be left to explore the house on their own and children should not treat them roughly.
