Manx for sale in the Netherlands

Temperament

Manx are often calm but playful companions that attach strongly to their household. The hindquarters are powerful and healthy cats can jump and climb very well. Tail length ranges from completely absent to full and does not determine a cat's value as a companion. Children must never pull a short or partial tail, and any sensitivity around the sacrum deserves respect. Alongside shared play, provide high resting places and a litter tray that remains easy to enter.

Care and observation

The double coat needs weekly brushing and more during shedding. More importantly, monitor normal movement, defecation and urination every day. Difficulty jumping, unusual hind-limb movement, incontinence, constipation or irritation around the anus needs prompt veterinary attention. Keep the cat lean to avoid extra spinal and joint load, and provide steps if height becomes difficult. A healthy Manx has the same needs for play, scratching and exercise as another cat and should not be restricted merely because of appearance.

Health and choosing a breeder

The dominant gene underlying taillessness can also cause malformations of the spine, nerves, bowel and bladder: Manx syndrome. When two tailless cats are paired, some embryos may not be viable. Dutch welfare sources therefore advise against deliberately choosing a cat for taillessness. Ask about spinal, bowel and bladder problems in every littermate and relative, and have an independent veterinarian assess gait, sensation, continence and the spine. Never buy a young kitten without evidence of normal development. Lacking a tail is never a health advantage.