Common Reasons for Surrender
In many instances, Manx cats lose their homes because their family is unable to cope with having a cat any longer. A family member develops allergies; an owner has to move to an assisted living facility that does not allow pets; or the family moves and cannot take their Manx due to pet restrictions or an inability to pay the pet deposit.
Pros
Most Manx come running to greet their humans when they arrive home and follow them around the house. A people-oriented breed, Manx cats prefer interacting with their humans rather than just approaching you when they feel like it as is common with other breeds. Your Manx will likely want to cuddle with you on the couch or in bed. Some Manx enjoy going for walks on leashes while many love a good game of fetch with their families.
Cons
While the adult Manx cat will typically do well with children, even toddlers, Manx kittens do not. Toddlers are fast and unpredictable, making an accidental injury to a kitten more likely. Some Manx cats are born with a mild form of spina bifida, which often results in a breeder euthanizing them. Constipation is a common problem, which can be corrected with a proper diet.
Diet
What you feed your Manx depends on your inclination and her preferences, but be sure you choose a high quality food. Because Manx are prone to constipation, consider choosing a food that is high in fiber, such as Iams. The raw diet is also popular among some Manx owners while others strictly adhere to a canned food diet. Be careful with portion control of meals. Their round bodies make the Manx prone to easy weight gain. Try feeding your cat twice each day and remove whatever is left in the bowl after 15 minutes.
Manx cats typically enjoy an array of treats, which should be given sparingly. Your cat may enjoy Temptations, Pounce, Greenies, or Friskies treats.
Exercise
Playtime, which should occur at least twice daily, offers the perfect opportunity for bonding between you and your Manx. It also allows him to get the exercise he needs. If you have more than one cat, you’ll quickly find that your cats get all the exercise they need by chasing each other around the house and playing tag.
Possible Health Issues
Generally a healthy breed, Manx cats may be prone to constipation, which can usually be corrected with a high fiber diet. Manx cats are also susceptible to diarrhea as a result of parasites or a poor diet. Some Manx cats are born with mild forms of spina bifida and others may be susceptible to Hereditary Cardiomyopathy (HCM).
Litter
Provide your Manx cat with a wheat or corn-based natural litter, preferably one that is digestible. Avoid scented litters, if possible. Some cats like the scoopable clay best.
Grooming
How much grooming your Manx cat needs will depend on the length of his coat. If your Manx has long hair, brush him at least once or twice every week to keep his coat healthy. A short-haired Manx only needs brushing every week or every other week as long as he is petted each day. You’ll also need to trim your Manx’s nails as needed, which you can easily do yourself at home.
Training
Manx cats learn quickly and, if you want, you may choose to train your cat to do basic commands such as sitting and how to walk on a leash. The best way to coax your cat to do what you want is to offer treats as a reward.
Entertainment
Manx cats generally love to play with a variety of toys, such as fur toys and toys with wands. Prop your feet on the couch, throw a ball, and your Manx will probably love to play run after it and bring it back to you. Catnip toys also keep Manx cats happy and energized. When she’s not playing, your Manx will be just as happy curled up with you on the couch or in bed.
We want to thank Tailless Cat Rescue for help with this profile.