The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Distinctive Feature

Manx

Tailless type with a rounded, powerful hindquarter build

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
Medium
Vocality
Low
Health sensitivity
High
Grooming
Medium
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
Low

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Double
Coat length
Short

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want the tailless/short-tail silhouette and the rounded rear-driven outline that comes with it

Not ideal

  • Want a breed with a low trait-linked screening baseline

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often sturdy and playful—moderate energy with a “ready to interact” vibe in many homes.

Handling & social style

With reduced/absent tail signaling, look for ear/shoulder posture and pacing changes; handling tends to work best when it stays supportive and steady.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

The tailless/short-tail trait shapes the rear structure; care is often normal, but selection ethics and line practices matter more here than with many breeds.

Environment & space

Typical indoor homes work; prioritize safe traction and stable jumping options rather than very tall “leap-heavy” setups.

Daily routine

Standard grooming/play; add brief comfort checks so subtle stiffness doesn’t go unnoticed.

Health sensitivities

Trait-linked baseline can be higher; choose conservative breeding practices and ask direct questions about outcomes seen in close relatives.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

Isle of Man

Background

Developed from a local population where reduced tail length occurred naturally and became common. The breed centers on the tailless/short-tail silhouette, which also shapes the overall body outline.