Characteristics and Temperament

The Manx is a mellow, even-tempered cat, friendly and affectionate. Its origins as a "working" cat are still strongly seen in the breed, and any Manx who has free access to the outside is a fierce, dedicated hunter. Many people call the Manx the "dog cat" because of its strong desire to be with its people. Manx cats will follow you about the house, "helping" with whatever you happen to be doing at the time.  Manx do like to get on things, on tables, the backs of chairs and on bookcases even the top of kitchen cupboards!!   Manx are a very sociable breed of cat who get on well with most other pets, including dogs and rabbits.

The Manx voice is usually quiet for its size. The Manx has a distinct "trill" which you most often hear from females talking to the kits, but with which they will reply to their people's verbalizations as well. Your Manx will talk to you.

Manx make good pets for younger children if the kitten grows up with them, because of their even-temperedness. An older Manx may have some difficulty adjusting to the noise and quickness of children.  For the most part, though, Manx aren't timid cats, and will place a lot of confidence in their people's reaction to events. A Manx that has been raised in a family environment will transfer easily to another home and remain a happy, playful cat.

If you decide on a show cat, you'll find that most Manx adjust well to the activity of the show hall, if you begin showing them at the kitten stage. Some Manx actually love the attention they receive at a show, and enjoy meeting new people. It is rare for a Manx to "play" on the judging table however much they might chase toys and race about in your home. They much prefer "kissing up" to the judge, and will deliver "head-butts" to any judge who places his/her face within range.

Manx, unlike many breeds, may be shown for years - as long as they are willing to go and enjoy it. This is because the Manx matures slowly, and may take as long as five years to reach full growth and potential. This means that you may get many years of showing enjoyment out of your Manx, and it is conceivable that your cat could win more than one regional/national title as it gets better and better with the passing of time.

Male and female Manx show equally well in the premiership classes, as both may attain the roundness and "type" for top show ability. In the championship classes, males may have the edge over the females, as the entire/un-neutered queen will come into heat often when shown, and this can cause her temperament to be uneven. Whole males generally maintain a more even disposition.