How Do You Select A Longhaired Manx?
The Manx breed is known for its lack of a tail, but the breed can actually be a “longie” (normal tail), “stumpy” (short tail), “riser” (a bit of cartilage at the base of the spine), or “rumpy” (no tail). The name Manx is said to have come from the Isle of Man, where cat experts believe the tail gene mutation originated. Choose a breeder who will guarantee in writing that your Manx is healthy. Watch out for kittens with Manx Syndrome (see warnings below). Because this fatal problem doesn’t show up until later in the kitten’s life, many breeders won’t sell them until they’re four months old. Expect to pay up to $500 for a pet-quality Manx or $1,000 or more for a show-quality cat. Pick up and hold the kitten to check for good muscle tone. Manx cats are stocky and muscular with a heavy bone structure, and their hind legs are normally longer than the front. Examine the tail or lack thereof. If you plan to enter your cat in shows, most judges consider the best Manx cats to be those with a di
