One of the most interesting things about the Manx is its history and folklore. There are so many theories as to how the Manx lost its tail. Most of them are deeply rooted in myth; the most fantastic myth that surrounds the Manx is one that places them as the final animal to board Noah's Ark! According to this legend the cats were caught by the door on the way in and lost their tails. In truth the lack of a long tail on the Manx is the result of a rare genetic mutation. This mutation can also result in spinal defects. The Manx originates on the Isle of Man, an island between Scotland and Ireland - another legend states that they swam there after a large portion of the Spanish Armada was sunk in the Irish Sea! The Manx, as a pet, is an excellent choice. It is a calm, docile cat with a lovable temperament! They are also known to get along well with other pets and visitors to your home! The Manx prefers to rest in high spots, such as the top of your couch, but is also seems equally content to take a nap in your lap. They are friendly cats that will often happily follow its owners around the house. In addition, they are also noted for their canine-inspired antics; they are often seeing playing fetch without any special training. They will even growl at unfamiliar noises. The Manx is a playful cat and one who seems particularly attracted to shiny objects. Overall the Manx is a loving, playful, curious cat that will provide you with a great companion for many years. The Manx is a stocky breed, with a dense, plush topcoat, complemented by a thicker undercoat than most house cats. They are typically black, although they can be bred in a variety of colors. Generally whites and dilute colors have softer coats than darker Manx cats. The hair may be long or short. They have a medium build, with shorter front legs than hind legs. It has a slightly square muzzle, and big, expressive eyes that run the full gamut of colors. The average mature Manx weighs between nine and twelve pounds. Though the most famous physical attribute of the Manx is its lack of a tail! It comes in a few varieties, with one variant having enough tail vertebrates to allow a short stumpy tail. This Manx cat is referred to as a "Stumpy" by Manx lovers. Those with fewer vertebrae, having only the barest hint of a tail are referred to as "Rumpy Risers". A Manx cat with no tail is called a "Rumpy"! |