Manx cats are a very friendly and people loving breed. They are native to the Isle of Man, which is how they get their name. The Manx cat is well known because of its shortened or non-existent tail. There are several variations of the Manx kitten and cat tail, but essentially, most Manx kittens are born without a tail. Some have a small tail nub and others have slightly longer or even full length tails. The Manx cat tail is the result of a genetic mutation that causes the spine to be shorter than normal. This mutation can cause spinal problems later in life, and some kittens have their tails cut to prevent arthritis.
Manx cat health is actually not really a problem with the exception of their tails. The Manx cat and health problem used to coincide closely, but now the Manx cat is a lot healthier than it was in years past. The decrease in Manx cat health problem occurrences is the result of careful breeding. Manx cat breeders do not breed two tailless cats together as it has been discovered that two copies of the tailless gene can be fatal.
When it comes to tails, the Manx cat’s show career depends on it. Or, rather, its career depends on the lack of a tail. There are four distinct lengths of tail for the Manx cat: rumpy is a non-existent tail; riser is a nub like tail that is usually not seen; stumpy is a longer tail that is prominent; longy is a full length or slightly shortened tail. Rumpys are ideal for the show circuit, and risers are acceptable, though rumpys are better. A Manx cat cannot show if he has a prominent or full length tail.
A Manx kitten for sale is a terrific thing. Before a breeder puts up his Manx kittens for sale, he lets them reach the age of twelve weeks. This way the kittens are old enough to have had all of their shots and any health problems they may have are already apparent. When you see Manx cats for sale, be sure to ask about their breeding and their potential health problems. Some cats will have some issues with their health at a young age, and in this case, it is important to know before you buy one. Purebred cat health problems often cost owners a lot of money in the long run.
