Manx / Bob Tail Cats

Question:

I have two bob tail kittens and one of them had bad diarrhea when I first got her. Now she has trouble having bowel movement because it is so hard, then she started having trouble leaking urine. I took her to the Vet and she said that some Manx cats have some of these problems and he might eventually be paralyzed. She said when the tail is bred off, that sometimes they don't have the nerves there like they are suppose too, and that there wasn't anything that could be done for her.

Can you tell me if these kinds of problems happen in bob tail cats a lot. I would like to have a couple more, but am concerned if I could run into problems.

Thanks,
Debbie

Answer:

Thank you for your inquiry to Holistic Pet Info. Bobtail cats commonly called Manx are cats born with a genetic mutation of the tailbone. Some kittens in a litter will have tails and some will not. The genes that initiate the lack of a tail can cause many problems. The problems can range from spina bifida (or open spinal cord) to bowel and bladder dysfunctions to difficulty walking one either or both hind legs. The nerves leading to the hind end of the cat are compromised. This is what can cause chronic cystitis (inflammation of the bladder), constipation or a prolapsed rectum.

Unfortunately some breeders that are trying to breed as many Manx kittens as possible will inbreed and those cats commonly show a corneal dystrophy. This is an inherited condition where the cornea (eye surface) degrades and the eye perforates causing loss of the eye.

Spaying your cat is an excellent idea, as I don’t advise breeding Manx. Though it will not eliminate the chances of your cat getting crystals or cystitis. She can still have bladder issues that are nerve related. My greatest recommendation would be to watch her carefully for weakness in the hind end, rectal prolapse or straining to urinate or defecate. Speak to your vet about your concerns, so you both can monitor her closely for any issues. Many Manx go through life with no health concerns relating to the lack of a tail. They are smart and very affectionate cats. I wish you the best.

Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA