Posts tagged "manxes"

Name: Manx

Appearance: Manxes are very round cats with curves every which way, according to the Cat Fanciers' Association. Their bodies are somewhat lumpy and can even appear fat despite even when they are in optimal health. Manxes can sport a long or a short coat. They have large jowls -- larger in males -- on their face and neck that sometimes can look like double chins. They have large eyes on their rounded heads, giving them an inquisitive, kind appearance.

The Manx's most startling attribute, however, is that it can have different types of tails. This is due to a dominant gene which is similar yet distinct form of the gene found in Japanese bobtails. Because the gene is dominant, Manxes can actually have full tails (longy), no tails (rumpy), or half-tails (stumpy).

History: According to Petfinder.com, the Manx hails from the Isle of Man, located between England and Ireland. Although no one is sure, one theory is that the cats ended up on the island after a Spanish armada vessel crashed there in 1588. Whatever happened, they could not have evolved there by themselves, and had to have been brought by someone. It is theorized, however, that the mutation that resulted in their lack of tails did originate on this island, as is common to confined populations.

Thus, Manxes have always been a presence in Europe since the mutation occurred, and came to America probably in the late 1800s, although no one knows for sure. They are increasing in popularity and are somewhat difficult to obtain as breeders can't keep up with demand.