Back in early July, I did a Wordless Wednesday post on a Manx farm cat named Sassy. She lives at a You Pick blueberry farm we have frequented for years.
Wednesday we visited for our last picking of the year, and I have some more pictures to share with you. This time, unlike last time, I was able to get some with her face.
Enjoy this little photo shoot. Here, she is up against her owner's leg. Or, should I say, she's near the human she owns.
No, please, look back at the camera. I was told by a reader that they have longer hind legs.
As many of my readers know, the Manx cat breed does not have a tail, or just a small stub of a tail.
Look into my eyes...
I've read that a Manx cat in good health has a similar life expectancy to other cat breeds.
This tailless trait, sadly, can lead to something called Manx syndrome – a collection of
birth defects showing up in kittenhood that can include urinary tract problems and a shortened spine, or even spina bifuda. Cats
with Manx syndrome rarely live beyond three or four years, I've read. Some
also have issues with their eyes. There is a lot of discussion online about the ethics of continuing to breed this type of cat as a result.
This cat is well loved, and friendly. It's in a good farm home, where it can exercise the breed's skill as great mousers.
Reading more about the breed, I'm of mixed feelings, If the tailless trait was bred out, would they no longer have the problems such as Manx syndrome caused by the shortened spine? They don't seem to have balance problems with the lack of a tail, but there is Manx syndrome to consider. Also, cats communicate with their tails.
But, with a tail, would we humans still desire them?
I'm of mixed feeling right now. I am learning to love this beautiful cat even though we've only met three times.
Sassy, you have led me to educate myself more about your breed.
Thank you.
