The Cymric, (pronounced "kumrik"), is an intelligent and affectionate cat. While the Manx is considered one of the oldest breeds of domestic cats, the Cymric was only recognized as a distinct breed within the last 50 years.

The Cymric, also known as the Longhaired Manx, has a relaxed disposition, unlike some of the more hyper breeds of cats, this cat is very content to curl up on your lap and take a nice refreshing nap. The Cymric is also fond of high places and it is not uncommon to find it taking a short nap in on top of your refrigerator. Being a very laid back cat, this breed usually does very well with other cats, dogs and children. And for the same reason this cat will usually do well in almost any family setting. In spite of its easygoing nature, the Cymric is also a playful cat that enjoys games of fetch. The love of fetch causes many owners to describe them as 'dog like'. Another doggish behavior is they will sometimes be seen growling at the unknown. This cat is also an excellent hunter, and enjoys games, which stimulate this passion.

The main physically distinguishing feature of the Cymric is its Manx tail, or lack thereof. Typically these are tailless cats, however they can come in three different lengths: rumpy, rumpy riser, and stumpy. The 'rumpy' variety are those with no visible tail, and the 'stumpy' possess a very short movable tail, consisting of one to five vertebrae. The 'rumpy riser' is tailless in appearance, but has one to three fused vertebrae. The taillessness of the Cymric can be attributed to a natural mutation. The Cymric is similar in all ways to the Manx, which the exception of its coat, which is medium-long. The silky, soft, thick coat lengthens as you progress from head to tail. One beautiful feature of this coat is the distinct ruff seen around the neck. The outer coat of this breed is much more open than the undercoat, which is quite heavy and dense. A variety of colors are accepted for this breed, in addition to the numerous acceptable patterns, including tortoiseshell, calico, tabby, shaded, solid and bicolor. The Cymric is a medium sized cat, with a thick stocky body. Its front legs are shorter than the powerful back legs, giving it a very playful appearance, as its back arches upwards to meet the longer rear legs. Its head is round with equally round, large expressive eyes. Atop its head lie two widely spaced small, round ears.

In the 1960's a longhaired kitten was born into pedigree litter of Manx kittens. This kitten was the beginning of the path that led to the official recognition of this breed. Named after the Gaelic word for Wales, the Cymric is native to the Island of Man, located in the Irish Sea between Ireland and England.

The Cymric requires regular brushing and combing several times a week to prevent matting of its long coat and think undercoat.

The gene associated with taillessness also leaves this cat prone to spinal defects. These defects can cause defecation problems as well as neurological disorders. Many of these defects can be discovered by four months of age.

There is currently no special breeding information in our databases for this animal. To submit breeding / propagation information that is specific to this animal please click here.