Manx

The Manx cat is one of the oldest breeds of British cats and is easily identified by the absence of a tail. It owes its name to the Isle of Man, where it is said to have originated, but it has a common ancestry with the British Shorthair. It has been the enduring symbol of the Isle of Man for centuries.

According to tradition, the Manx cats were the last animals on Noah’s Ark. It is said the pair were busy hunting mice when the rains began to beat down and only just made it aboard in time. As Noah slammed the Ark’s door shut their tails got caught and were cut off.

Description
The Manx has a slightly longer head and more upright ears than a British Shorthair, but is characterised by the lack of a tail. This defining trait is the result of a dominant mutated gene that meant many kittens were born without the vertebrae that form the tail. As these cats were isolated, with time the tail gene completely disappeared. The Manx has long legs, a sturdy body, and is a very social cat. It is also a great hunter.

Care
Manx cats are creatures of habit and prefer routine feeding times and place. As with any other breed, regular grooming should also form part of the Manx cat’s routine.