Manx Cat and Kitten Information - By: Mitch Endick

The absence of a tail makes the Manx cat quite unique from other cat breeds. The lack of a tail is the result of a genetic mutation of the spine. The length of the tail will vary from the longie (normal tail) to the short tail or stumpy and the no tail or rumpy.

The Manx is a stocky breed with long hind legs and short backs with adult cats weighing up to twelve pounds. They come in many colors and varieties and either semi-long or short hair. The semi long hairs are sometimes referred to as Cymrics. Manx Cats are often described as intelligent, playful, affectionate and playful.

Brief History of the Manx Cat

The Manx are thought to have originated on the Isle of Man perhaps hundreds of years ago. Much lore and fable is associated with the Manx dating back to biblical times. One popular myth is that the Manx was one the last animals to board the Ark, losing its tail as Noah slammed the door. Another interesting bit of folklore involves the cross breeding of a Manx cat with a rabbit. The resulting progeny were called Cabbits. Recognition as a breed dates back to a posting by the Cat Fanciers Association in the 1920s. The origin of Manx is still the subject of much speculation.

Health

Cats who reside in the house should generally visit the veterinarian yearly, unless health problems are evident. Cats who enjoy the outdoors may need to see the vet as many as four times a year. When you take your cat to the vet, be sure to bring along a fresh stool sample so the vet can do a fecal exam to check for internal parasites such as tapeworm, round worm, whip worms and hook worms. The vet will also check for external parasites such as fleas, ticks and ear mites.

Any vet check should include a dental examination and a cleaning if necessary. Cats who are eight years of age or older are considered geriatric and additional blood and urine tests may be necessary to screen for any health problems. At about six months of age, the kitten should also be examined for sexual maturity and decisions about birth control should be made.

Behavioral Traits

Some play fetch with owners
They enjoy the company of people
Are not adverse to water
Are known to take easily to training, learning simple commands
Can take up to five years to mature
Known as skillful mousers and vermin hunters
Like to perch high up

Manx Cat Registries and Clubs

Cat Fanciers Association CFA
International Cat Association TICA
The Traditional Cat Association, Inc TCA
Canadian Cat Association CCA
The Australian Cat Federation Inc
The American Association of Cat Enthusiasts AACE
American Cat Fanciers Association ACFA
Cat Fanciers Association CFA
United Feline Organization UFO
Cats United International

Manx Kittens

Kittens are generally available and the price depends upon bloodlines color and markings. Unlike puppies, kittens should not be separated from their mother until twelve to sixteen weeks of age. Some very important developmental stages occur during this period including emotional, mental and health. Curtailing this development may lead to any number of medical and behavioral problems.

Kittens that are separated from their mother at too young an age often fail to gain weight fast enough, have immune system problems because they have not had enough mothers milk. The may also develop eating and eliminating problems, and can have problems socializing with other cats and with people.

Every cat and kitten is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your cat or kitten. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

About the Author

Mitch Endick is a staff writer for the popular online store WeathervaneSale.com. WeathervaneSale.com offers a great selection of beautiful and unique weathervanes. Shop for Weathervanes and Wind Vanes WeathervaneSale.com today.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Mitch-Endick/7958

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