Cat
Pronunciation:
pronounced KIM-rick or KUM-rick
Breed Description:
There are registries that consider the Cymric breed of cat a long-haired variety of the Manx breed of cat. The length of fur is the only thing that separates the breeds.The Cymric breed of cat is a muscular, compact, medium to large cat. They have a sturdy bone structure as well. The Cymric breed of cats also have large and full eyes with widely spaced ears. The defining factor between the Cymric and manx is the hair; the dense and well padded hair of a Cymric is medium-long, and is all over the main body, accentuating a round appearance. All colors and patterns are accepted and eye color can be copper, green, hazel, and blue, although other colors have been found.
Temperament:
The Cymrics breed of cats are generally found to not be overly demanding of attention. These cats can be very playful and have reputations as exceptional jumpers. Cymric cats are known to be intelligent, as well as funny and friendly. These cats are fascinated by water. The Cymric breed of cat is an impressive learner; non-fussy in nature as well as obedient and loyal. They bond quickly and deeply with their human companions. Though they love company, they are usually not overly demanding of attention.
Weight:
9-12 lbs.
Health Problems:
The gene that gives the Cymric its unique tail can also be lethal. Kittens who inherit two copies of the tailless gene die before birth and are reabsorbed in the womb. Since these kittens make up about 25 percent of all kittens, litters are usually small. Even Cymrics who inherit only one copy of the gene can have what is called Manx Syndrome. This can cause Spina Bifida, gaps in the vertebrae, fused vertebrae, and bowel or bladder dysfunctions. Also, a rabbit-like hop can sometimes be seen in Cymric cats due to the spinal deformity.
Not every Cymric with a short spine has problems or Manx Syndrome. It is just an attribute of the Manx gene and cannot be prevented. The problems usually become apparent within the first six months of age so it is wise to wait until Manx or Cymric kitten is older before purchasing one.
Living Conditions:
The Cymric breed of cat is an excellent household pet. While they tend to gravitate toward one person in the household the Cymric will become your best friend. Of course it is not unusual to find a Manx or Cymric in your lap or right next to you. These playful and energetic cats emit little trills when they are with you..
Exercise:
They are moderately active and playful.
Grooming:
The Cymric breed of cat is a long haired cat and requires brushing twice per week.
Origin:
The Cymric breed of cats are direct descendents of Manx Cats from the Isle of Man.
According to Isle of Man records, the tailless trait of the Cymric began as a mutation among the island’s domestic cat population. Given the island’s closed environment and small gene pool, the dominant gene that decided the Cymric’s taillessness was easily passed from one generation to the next, along with the gene for long hair. Long-haired kittens had been born to Manx cats on the Isle of Man, but had always been discarded as “mutants.” Then, in the 1960s, similar kittens were born in Canada and were treated with respect. This was the start of the increase of Cymric popularity. It took many years for the Cymric to be recognized as a breed of its own by cat associations. The Manx was recognized in the 1920s, but the Cymric was not shown until the 1960s and did not begin to gain popularity until the mid-1970s. Gratefully borrowed from Wikipedia. 