Manx Cats

A Manx's most distinctive feature is its lack of tail, which is caused by a genetic mutation of its spine. Manx tails come in a variety of lengths: tailed--almost a complete tail, stump--partial tail, rumpy riser or riser--a short stub of cartilage or vertebrae, and rumpy--no tail whatsoever. Despite its lack of tail, the Manx has no problems with balance.

The spinal mutation also causes the Manx's back legs longer than its front legs, which gives the Manx a round, balled look.

The Manx cat derives its name from the Isle of Man, where it was first bred. Called "stubbin" in the Manx language, these tailless cats were very common as far back as 300 years ago.

There are different myths that attempt to explain how the Manx came into existence. One myth suggests that it is the mix between a rabbit and a cat, giving the Manx the nickname of Cabbit. Another myth states that as Noah boarded the ark, he shut the door and accidently cut off the Manx's tail.

While its spinal mutation can give it a cute little tail, it can also cause the Manx a plethora of health problems. One problem arises from what is commonly known as Manx Syndrome, which makes the tail too short, causing spina bifida. Spina bifida are openings in the spine's vertebral arches, which can cause impairments in the legs, feet, knees, hips, bowels, and bladder. This condition affects mostly rumpies. However, due to improved breeding practices, Manx Syndrome is becoming less common.

Living with a Manx cat is very different from living with typical felines. Finn (full name Finn Mac Cumhail) is a ten-year-old rumpy riser who was rescued after being abandoned in a vacant apartment. Typical Manx cats are incredibly socialable, playful, and much like dogs. Due to his age (and possibly is childhood), however, Finn has become very docile, calm, and prone to disliking newcomers. But because we have an exceedingly playing kitten living with us as well, Finn tends to play a little more than he used to.

He loves to hide, usually on top of the fridge, in the closet, and behind the sofa. Finn is also very vocal, and he will badger you incessantly if he needs food, pets, or someone to clean the litter box. Turn-ons include sleeping, cat scratchers, and fresh water. Turn-offs include pesky kittens named Cooper, being found, and waking up.

Finn suffers from a mild form of Manx Syndrome, which affects his back legs, bowels, and bladder. Because of this condition, he tends to limp or hop when he walks, and we have to feed him prescription cat food to control his ailment.

He often seems sad, which may be due to his health or his abandonment issues. This means we have to give him lots of love, but we don't mind in the least because he has incredibly soft, thick fur. Overall, it's a complete joy to have this sweet little guy with the big green eyes living with us.