Cat Breed · Isle of Man
Manx
Famous for taillessness — a round, sturdy cat with a hopping gait.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Manx is a sturdy, round-bodied cat from the Isle of Man, instantly recognised for its missing or shortened tail. Sociable and playful, it has powerful hind legs that give a distinctive rabbit-like hop and a reputation as a devoted, dog-like companion.
Manx: At a Glance
| Origin | Isle of Man |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium (3–5 kg) |
| Weight | 3.5-5.5 kg (8-12 lb), with broad-chested males at the heavier end |
| Lifespan | 13–17 years |
| Coat | Comes in shorthair and longhair (the Cymric) varieties, both with a plush, dense double coat that feels padded to the touch. The shorthair needs weekly brushing, while the longhair benefits from two or three sessions a week to prevent matting. Shedding is moderate and rises during seasonal coat changes. |
| Temperament | Playful, loyal, rabbit-like hop |
| Good with | A friendly, adaptable choice for families, including those with gentle children and other pets, and manageable for attentive first-time owners. Manx cats form strong bonds, follow their people about and often greet visitors at the door. They suit both houses and flats provided they get play and company, but tail-touching should be avoided as the area can be sensitive. |
History & Origins
The Manx developed naturally on the Isle of Man, where a spontaneous genetic mutation for taillessness spread through the island's isolated cat population over centuries. Folklore offered colourful explanations, from a cat that was last aboard Noah's Ark to mating with rabbits, but the trait is simply the result of a dominant gene fixed by isolation. The breed was among the founding members recognised by early cat fancies and remains one of the oldest known pedigree breeds. Tail length varies from completely absent (rumpy) to nearly full (longy).
Manx Fun Facts
- Manx tails are graded by length: rumpy (none), rumpy-riser, stumpy and longy, and only fully tailless cats traditionally compete at the top show level.
- The cat is so emblematic of its homeland that it has appeared on Isle of Man coins and postage stamps.
- The tailless gene is dominant, so two tailless Manx are never bred together because inheriting two copies is lethal to the developing kittens.
- The longhaired version of the breed is recognised separately as the Cymric, pronounced 'kim-rick'.
Manx Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Spina bifida
Spina bifida can occur in this breed and may need veterinary monitoring.
Care: Discuss prevention and treatment with your vet.
Arthritis
Arthritis can occur in this breed and may need veterinary monitoring.
Care: Discuss prevention and treatment with your vet.
Constipation
Constipation can occur in this breed and may need veterinary monitoring.
Care: Discuss prevention and treatment with your vet.
Every cat deserves a chance
Whatever breed you love, countless cats live without a home or care. A symbolic adoption or a gift to WARN funds community-cat welfare — neutering, vaccination and treatment for cats most people never see.
