The friendly, affectionate Manx, who hails from the Isle of Man, is best known for his taillessness. He has a solid body, round head, widely spaced ears, large, round eyes and a thick coat that comes in many colors and patterns, including tabby, tortoiseshell and calico. The Cymric (pronounced kim-rick) is the longhaired variety of the Manx. Other than coat length, the two breeds are identical.
Overview
The Manx is a powerfully-built, medium-sized, tailless feline. Its hind legs are markedly longer than its front legs, creating a continuous arch from shoulders to rump that gives the cat a uniquely rounded appearance when viewed in profile. Its conformation also gives it a hopping, rabbit-like gait. The Manx is stocky and has a broad chest and a short back. It has strong facial features – full jowly cheeks, large eyes, prominent ears and a wide, straight muzzle – all of which contribute to the impression of roundness in this breed.
The Manx is gentle and playful. It’s not unusual to find that he enjoys playing fetch or carrying his toys around. He’s also smart and dexterous, capable of using his paws to get into cabinets or to open doors. Fond of human company, he will carry on a conversation in a sweet trilling voice. Some Manx give all their love to a single person while others are affectionate toward the entire family, including children. The Manx is highly intelligent.
Challenge his brain and keep him interested in life by teaching him tricks and providing him with puzzle toys that will reward him with kibble or treats when he learns how to manipulate them. Always choose a kitten from a breeder who raises litters in the home and handles them from an early age. Meet at least one and ideally both of the parents to ensure that they have nice temperaments.
Other Quick Facts
- The Manx is notable for his round contours, from his round head to his rounded rear end. The ears are wide at the base and taper to a rounded tip. Large round eyes are set at a slight angle toward the nose with the outer corners a bit higher than the inner corners.
- The Manx coat comes in many colors and patterns with the exceptions of chocolate, lavender, pointed, or any of these colors or patterns with white.