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American Bobtail vs Manx
Both are sturdy, calm family cats without a full tail; the Manx can carry spinal and bowel problems from its tail gene.
Verdict
These two are close in temperament. Both are calm, loyal, sturdy cats with quiet voices and light grooming needs. The American Bobtail has a short bobbed tail and scores top marks for children and other pets. The Manx is tailless, round and plush, and it carries a health risk tied to the tail gene. Choose the American Bobtail for an easygoing family cat. Choose the Manx only from a breeder who tests and screens, and with a budget for possible spinal or bowel care.
Choose the American Bobtail if
- You want a short tail rather than none, and no breed-specific health list.
- You have young children or other pets.
- You want a shaggy coat with a wild tabby look.
- You prefer a cat that adapts easily to change.
Choose the Manx if
- You want a tailless, round-bodied cat with a thick plush coat.
- You want a loyal mouser that suits an apartment slightly better.
- You can cover the cost of possible spinal or bowel problems.
- You will choose a breeder who tests and screens.
Where they are alike
Both are medium-sized, moderate-energy cats with modest grooming needs. Both get on well with other pets and bond closely with a family.
Side by side
| American Bobtail | Manx | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Shorthair | Shorthair |
| Origin | United States | Isle of Man, British Isles |
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Typical weight | — | 8-12 lb (3.6-5.4 kg); males are larger |
| Lifespan | — | 15-18 years in healthy cats; shorter with Manx syndrome |
| Coat length | Short | Short |
| Coat | Shaggy, medium-dense coat in both short-haired and long-haired forms | Thick, dense, plush double coat that stands off from a rounded body |
| How common | Rare | Uncommon |
| Affection | 4 | 4 |
| Energy | 3 | 3 |
| Playfulness | 4 | 3 |
| Talkativeness | 2 | 2 |
| Grooming needed | 2 | 2 |
| Shedding | 3 | 3 |
| Good with children | 5 | 4 |
| Good with other pets | 5 | 4 |
| Happy alone | 3 | 3 |
| Trainability | 4 | 4 |
| Suits a small home | 3 | 4 |
| Allergies | No breed is hypoallergenic. The shaggy coat sheds in moderation, and people who react to cats may react to this breed. | — |
| Suits | A family or multi-pet home that wants a sturdy, adaptable cat with a mellow temper and a short tail. | A calm family or a household with other pets that wants a loyal, sturdy, easy-care cat and will choose a breeder who tests and screens. |
| Less suited to | Anyone who wants a very small cat, a fully tailless cat, or a cat that is easy to find. | Anyone who cannot cover the cost of possible spinal or bowel problems, or who wants a cat that is happy in constant change. |
| Registries that recognise it |
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| Health conditions to watch | — |
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Facts come from each breed's profile. Scores run from 1 (low) to 5 (high) and describe a breed in general. Every cat is an individual, so meet the cat before you decide.
Last reviewed November 7, 2026