Physical Characteristics

• Weight: 8-12 pounds
• Length: 14-16 inches
• Coat: Double coat; can be short or long (the longhaired variety is called the Cymric)
• Colors & Patterns: All colors and patterns are accepted
• Eyes: Round; color varies with coat
• Distinctive Feature: Taillessness or a very short tail
• Lifespan: 8-14 years
• Body Type: Stocky, rounded, and substantial with a broad chest

Tail Classifications:

• Rumpy: Completely tailless (ideal for show)
• Rumpy Riser: A small bone protuberance at the base of the spine
• Stumpy: A short tail stump
• Stubby: A short tail (about half the normal length)
• Longy: A normal or near-normal length tail

American Bobtail

Origin and History The American Bobtail was developed in the United States during the 1960s. The foundation cat was a brown tabby kitten named Yodie, discovered near an Indian reservation in Arizona. Yodie possessed a naturally short, bobbed tail. Breeders selectively developed this trait by crossing him with various domestic cats, creating a robust and healthy breed.

Crucially, the American Bobtail's short tail results from a different genetic mutation than the Manx's, one that does not carry the same severe health risks. The breed gained formal recognition in the 1980s and continues to be developed today.

Physical Characteristics

• Weight: 7-16 pounds (males are typically larger)
• Length: 17-19 inches
• Coat: Medium length, shaggy, and water-resistant
• Colors & Patterns: All colors and patterns
• Eyes: Almond-shaped; color varies
• Distinctive Feature: A short, expressive bobbed tail (1-4 inches)
• Lifespan: 13-15 years
• Body Type: Athletic, moderate, and rectangular with a well-muscled frame

Physical Characteristics Comparison

Tail Differences

Manx Tail:

• Cause: Spontaneous dominant genetic mutation (the M gene)
• Length: None to partial, highly variable
• Health Concerns: High risk of Manx Syndrome (spinal and neurological defects)
• Appearance: Often a dimple where the tail should be, or a short stump
• Genetics: Dominant gene with variable expression; breeding two tailless cats increases health risks.

American Bobtail Tail:

• Cause: A different, unrelated genetic mutation
• Length: 1-4 inches (ideally about 1 inch)
• Health Concerns: None specifically associated with the tail mutation
• Appearance: A visible, short tail that may be straight, curved, or slightly kinked
• Genetics: Dominant gene without associated spinal defects

Critical Distinction: The Manx gene can cause serious, life-limiting spinal problems (Manx Syndrome), while the American Bobtail mutation is considered benign and does not carry these health risks.

Body Type Comparison

Coat & Grooming Differences

Temperament and Personality Comparison

Manx Personality

• Dog-Like Devotion: Forms extremely strong bonds, often with one person. Known to follow owners, play fetch, and greet at the door.
• Playful & Intelligent: Retains a kitten-like playfulness into adulthood. Highly intelligent and adept at problem-solving (e.g., opening doors).
• Strong-Willed & Vocal: Knows what it wants and is not shy about demanding it. Uses a moderate voice to communicate.
• Family-Friendly: Typically patient and gets along well with children, other cats, and cat-friendly dogs.
• Natural Hunter: Possesses strong hunting instincts and may present "gifts."

American Bobtail Personality

• Friendly & Adaptable: Confident, outgoing, and adapts well to new people, pets, and environments. Makes an excellent travel companion.
• Playful & Goofy: Maintains a playful, kitten-like demeanor throughout life. Enjoys games, puzzles, and interactive play.
• Intelligent & Trainable: Highly smart and can learn tricks, walk on a leash, and play fetch. Requires mental stimulation.
• Communicative: Has a pleasant, chirpy voice used to interact with family members.
• Excellent Family Pet: Its easygoing and patient nature makes it superb for families with children and other pets.

Temperament Summary

Health and Lifespan: The Most Critical Difference

Manx Health Concerns

The defining Manx gene is linked to serious health issues, collectively known as Manx Syndrome.

Manx Syndrome (Spina Bifida):

• The most severe concern, affecting up to 20% of completely tailless (rumpy) Manx cats.
• Caused by incomplete development of the spine and spinal cord.
• Symptoms include:
  • Incontinence (urine and/or fecal)
  • Constipation and megacolon
  • Partial paralysis or weakness in the hind legs
  • Lack of sensation around the tail area
• Often requires euthanasia on welfare grounds. Symptoms typically appear by 4-6 months of age.

Other Issues: Higher incidence of arthritis and megacolon due to spinal structure abnormalities.

Responsible Breeding Practices: Ethical breeders avoid mating two tailless cats together and often use "longy" or "stumpy" cats in their programs to reduce risk. Kittens should not be placed in homes before 6 months to screen for Manx Syndrome.

Average Lifespan: 8-14 years (often shorter than average due to potential health complications).

American Bobtail Health

• Generally Healthy: A robust breed with no known breed-specific genetic diseases.
• Tail Mutation: The bobtail gene is not associated with any spinal or neurological defects.
• Common Health: Only the typical health concerns of any domestic cat (e.g., dental disease, obesity if overfed).
• Average Lifespan: 13-15 years.

Health Comparison Table

Cost of Ownership (2026 Estimates)

Initial & Annual Costs

*Manx costs may be significantly higher if managing Manx Syndrome.

Lifetime Cost Estimate (Based on Average Lifespan)

Ethical Considerations

The Manx Breeding Debate

The intentional breeding of Manx cats is a significant ethical concern within the veterinary and animal welfare communities.

• The Issue: Breeding for the tailless trait knowingly perpetuates a gene that causes severe suffering and shortened lifespans in a substantial minority of cats.
• Responsible Choices: If drawn to the Manx, consider:
  1. Adopting an adult with a known clean bill of health.
  2. Seeking a "stumpy" or "longy" Manx, which have a lower risk of Manx Syndrome.
  3. Supporting only breeders who openly discuss health risks, screen breeding stock, and avoid rumpy-to-rumpy matings.

American Bobtail Ethics

• Generally Considered Ethical: The breed's bobtail is a natural mutation not linked to pain or disability.
• Breeding practices are straightforward, focusing on health, temperament, and conformation without compromising animal welfare.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Choose a Manx If:

• You are deeply committed to this specific breed and fully understand the serious health risks.
• You are prepared for potentially high veterinary costs and specialized care.
• You seek an intensely devoted, dog-like companion and can provide constant monitoring.
• You are open to adopting an adult cat with a confirmed healthy history.

Choose an American Bobtail If:

• You desire a cat with a unique, short tail but prioritize health and longevity.
• You want a friendly, adaptable, and intelligent pet that thrives in most families.
• You prefer a breed with straightforward, ethical breeding practices.
• You seek a playful, communicative companion with fewer inherent health concerns.

Final Conclusion

While both the Manx and American Bobtail are captivating breeds with short tails, they represent vastly different choices in terms of health and ethics.

The American Bobtail emerges as the clear, practical, and welfare-conscious choice for most families and first-time owners. It offers the unique bobtail appearance, a wonderful temperament, and a robust bill of health, leading to a longer, happier life with your pet.

The Manx, despite its endearing personality, carries a heavy burden of potential suffering due to its genetics. If you are considering a Manx, adoption of a healthy adult is the most responsible path. Prospective owners must enter this commitment with eyes wide open to the potential for heartbreak and significant expense.

For those enchanted by the idea of a feline companion with a little less tail, the American Bobtail provides all the charm with a clear conscience and a healthier future.

Disclaimer: Individual cats may vary from general breed descriptions. Always meet a kitten's parents and review health screening documentation from breeders. For Manx cats, especially, consult with a veterinarian experienced with the breed before making a decision.