Manx Syndrome

Manx cats are a fairly hearty breed, though they’re prone to Manx Syndrome, a spinal disorder that can occur as a result of the genetic mutation that causes taillessness. In Manx Syndrome, the tail winds up too short, leading to often fatal spinal defects. Fused vertebrae, gaps between vertebrae and spina bifida. Symptoms appear between birth and four months of age.

Symptoms of Manx Syndrome include:

  • Missing vertebrae
  • Fused vertebrae
  • Spina bifida
  • Malformed sacral bone
  • Malformed pelvic bone
  • Shortened vertebrae
  • Fecal incontinence
  • Constipation
  • Stoppage of the bowel
  • Bladder problems
  • Hind leg paralysis
  • Crippled gait
  • Manx Syndrome isn’t as common today as it once was, thanks to the efforts of Manx breeders to eliminate this condition from the breed. Today’s breeders wait until kittens are at least four months old before selling them, to ensure that they kittens aren’t going to develop Manx Syndrome.

     

    Manx

    MANX

    KITTY STATS

    COAT
    Double coat

    LIFE SPAN
    8 – 14 years
    BREED CHARACTERISTICS

    Affectionate with Family – Very

    Amount of Shedding – Moderate

    Easy to Groom – Somewhat

    Friendly Toward Strangers – Sometimes

    General Health – Fairly Good

    Intelligence – Above Average

    Kid Friendly – Not Particularly

    Pet Friendly – Sometimes

    Potential for Playfulness – Moderate

    Tendency to Vocalize – High