Manx Maine Coon Mix

While the Manx Maine Coon mix is not an official breed, many cat enthusiasts wonder what a hybrid between such famous breeds would look like. So, let’s find out!
The mix between a Manx and a Maine Coon would be known as a Manx-Maine Coon mix. A mix between these breeds would likely have a short tail or no tail at all as well as short fur. The Manx Maine Coon mix would likely be large with wide paws and long limbs.
If you are a cat lover having a hard time choosing between a Maine Coon or a Manx cat, read on to find out whether the Manx Maine Coon mix is a good fit for you!
Manx Maine Coon Mix
The Manx Maine Coon mix is not an official breed, but it is fun to speculate about a hybrid between the two cat breeds!
Since both the Maine Coon and Manx cat breeds are known for their curious and playful nature, you can expect a cross between them to be highly energetic and incredibly playful.
Both breeds are also highly affectionate and need lots of time with their owners.
When it comes to their appearance, it is likely for Maine Coon Manx mixes to have stubby tails or no tails at all, due to the Manx genetics.
The tailless gene is dominant, but since Maine Coons do not carry the gene a litter of Manx Maine Coon kittens would probably include some kittens with tails and some kittens without.
The gene responsible for long fur, however, is recessive. As a result, Maine Coon Manx kittens would most likely have short hair (source 1,2).
You are unlikely to find reputable breeders running a breeding program that produces Manx Maine Coon kittens since registered breeders are passionate about maintaining the breed’s purebred status.
The best way to find a Manx Maine Coon Mix kitten is to look in your local pet shops, cat shelters or Facebook, etc.
Physical Features
Both the female Maine Coon and male Maine Coon have characteristically large ears, with tufts of fur sprouting out the top.
Since the Manx doesn’t have these ear features though, we cannot guarantee this physical feature on your Manx Maine Coon Mix cat.
Manx Maine Coon mixes will likely look like this:
Short Tail
Maine Coons are famous for having long fluffy tails that kept them warm in the cold climate of Maine, but the stumpy or nonexistent tail of the Manx cat is a hallmark of the breed.
Since the tailless gene is dominant, some of the kittens in a litter of Maine Coon mixes might have tails, while others probably will not.
Short Fur
Even though Maine Coons are famous for their long, beautiful coats, the gene responsible for long fur is recessive. As a result, Maine Coon Manx mixes will most likely have short fur.
Long Hind Legs
Maine Coons are known for their long, muscular limbs. Meanwhile, Manx cats have significantly longer hind legs than front legs.
Maine Coon Manx Mixes will probably have longer hind limbs than most cats.
Large Size
Most Manx cats are average in size, weighing between 8 and 12 pounds.
Known as one of the largest domesticated cat breeds, the Maine Coon is far larger, weighing between 12 and 22 pounds.
You can therefore expect a mix of the two cat breeds to be larger than average.
History Of Maine Coon And Manx Cats
The Manx cat originated on the Isle of Man, even though cats are not native to the island. While we do not know for sure how they came to be, one popular theory is that Vikings brought cats to the island during raids or travels.
One of the cats there was born with a genetic mutation that resulted in a short or nonexistent tail, which it then passed on to its offspring until it became a standard trait of the Manx cat breed.
Believe it or not, the Maine Coon is also thought to be descended from the cats of Vikings, and first started to make an appearance in cat shows many decades ago!
Genetic testing shows that the purebred Maine Coon thought to have originated in North America is most closely related to Norwegian Forest Cats, which Vikings kept.
These Vikings likely sailed to North America, where cats were traded, released, or escaped on their own.
They populated what is now known as the state of Maine, passing large paws and thick, luxurious coats onto their offspring until local farmers and sailors began to recognize them.
In the 1800s, the Maine Coon was named the official state cat of Maine, and today they are one of the most popular cat breeds in not only the United States but the entire world! (source 1).
Learn more about the Maine Coon Cat’s Origins and why cat lovers adore this mystical cat breed so much.
Personality, Characteristics, And Temperament
Maine Coons are known to be highly energetic and playful, but this is also a very intelligent breed. They do not display naturally aggressive behavior, or territoriality.
It is common for Maine Coons to pick up on tricks and commands or even learn how to play fetch! This is How To Teach A Maine Coon To Play Fetch.
They are also highly social and friendly, which means these special cats make the perfect family pet.
Maine Coon cats are so gentle that they get along well with children!
Manx cats are equally friendly towards children and family members. They are also quite friendly and energetic, though they do not play as rough as Maine Coons.
Even though both breeds are very friendly and social, you can expect a Manx Maine Coon mix to need some amount of personal space.
If they are forced to interact with people and pets all day, even the most child-friendly breed can become cranky! (source 1). In such cases, make sure you give your cat space to calm down.
Maine Coon behavior problems are not common for these big cats, so is unlikely to be a big issue for a Manx Maine Coon cat raised in a loving home.
Size
Manx cats are medium-sized cats. When they are fully grown they weigh between 8 and 12 pounds and measure about 10 to 12 inches tall and 14 to 16 inches long.
Maine Coons, on the other hand, are much larger!
Even though a Maine Coon kitten weighs just 90 to 170 grams when they’re first born, they weigh between 12 and 22 pounds once fully grown, making them the largest domestic cat breeds in the world!
Adult Maine Coon cats typically measure about 8 to 16 inches tall and 19 to 40 inches long.
Despite their huge size and wild look, though, Maine Coons are so friendly that they earned themselves the nickname the gentle giant of the cat world! (source 1).
Sociable
Both Maine Coons and Manx cats are known to be highly affectionate cats that form strong bonds with their owners.
If you are considering buying a new cat, be aware that this breed loves to cuddle and play with its owners, but can become lonely and depressed if they do not get enough social interaction.
Separation anxiety is a real issue with the Maine Maine Coon mix breed, so it is a good idea for owners to buy two cats rather than one, to give the cats continual company.
A regular house cat will be fine, but ideally, owners should buy two Manx Maine Coon kittens from the same litter.
Vocality
One of the most unique characteristics of the Maine Coon is its soft voice. Rather than meowing like most cats, they tend to chirp or trill like a bird.
If you are looking for low-vocalization cats, then the Maine Coon is the perfect choice.
These cats have a soft voice and typically only make noise when they want something such as snuggles or food.
Manx cats are more likely to meow than Maine Coons, but they do occasionally chirp or trill.
They are slightly more vocal than the Maine Coon but not nearly as chatty as cats like the Siamese or Bengal (source 1).
Diet
Maine Coons and Manx cats both require a diet that is rich in protein with a moderate amount of fat and a small amount of carbohydrates and grains.
It is important to provide high-quality cat food and proper nutrition that includes a named animal protein as its first ingredient.
They benefit from a balanced diet including both wet food and dry food.
Dry food scrapes at the teeth and prevents plaque and tartar buildup as well as periodontal disease.
Wet food provides hydration which significantly reduces the risk of kidney disease.
Coat Colors And Patterns
Maine Coons come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, aside from the colorpoint pattern and some rare dilute colors such as chocolate or fawn.
The same is true of Manx cats, even though they most commonly come in the brown classic tabby pattern coat color.
Health Problems
Overall, the Maine Coon is considered a pretty healthy breed that is not prone to many genetic diseases, while the Manx is more prone to health issues.
Here are some of the medical problems that Maine Coons are prone to, and require veterinary care to treat:
1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
This is a fatal genetic condition also known as congestive heart failure, which causes the walls of the heart to thicken until blood can no longer pump through.
Thankfully, responsible Maine Coon breeders can test for this health condition before breeding.
2. Spinal Muscular Atrophy
This causes the muscles along the back of the spine and hind legs to atrophy until the cat is no longer able to use its hind legs properly.
3. Hip Dysplasia
This occurs when the femur grinds awkwardly in the ball and socket joint of the hips. Over time, it wears away the cartilage, leading to looseness, pain, and mobility issues.
Sadly, even though the short tail is part of the Manx breed standard, it causes many genetic health conditions.
4. Polycystic Kidney Disease
This condition is also known as PKD and is a disorder inherited from the cat’s parents.
Polycystic kidney disease occurs when a group of cysts, which vary in size, grow mainly within the cat’s kidneys, causing kidney enlargement and reduced functionality.
Learn more about Maine Coon Polycystic Kidney Disease.
Here are the health issues that Manx cats are most likely to suffer from:
1. Spina Bifida
Spina bifida is the name for the genetic mutation responsible for the Manx cat’s short or nonexistent tail.
Even though this is considered the most recognizable of this breed’s physical characteristics, it cannot exist without spina bifida.
This genetic disease occurs when the cat’s spine and spinal cord are not properly formed.
2. Max Syndrome
This phrase refers to the cluster of health problems that commonly occur in the Manx cat’s hind legs.
While not all Manx cats have Manx syndrome, it is quite common in this breed.
Cats with Manx Syndrome are more likely to suffer from incontinence, paralysis, rectal prolapse, and many other problems.
Sadly, many cats with Manx syndrome are euthanized.
3. Arthritis
The Manx cat’s spinal problems often lead to arthritis, particularly in the back legs.
Overall, if you get a Maine Coon Manx mix, there is a strong chance your cat will deal with complications from spina bifida and Manx Syndrome.
Overall, purebred Maine Coons are healthier than a Maine Coon mixed breed crossed with Manx cats (source 1,2).
Exercise Needs
You can expect a Maine Coon Manx mix to have a very high energy level, as both parent breeds need a lot of exercise.
Manx and Maine Coon cats love to jump, run, and climb, and you need to provide at least one extra-large cat tree.
Since Maine Coons are so big and rough, they need extra durable toys and plenty of interactive playtime.
The best thing is to buy the Manx Maine Coon interactive toys that mimic the hunting and chasing skills they would utilize in the wild.
It is important to play with your Manx Maine Coon mix for at least 30 minutes every day.
These cats require adequate room to run, chase, and play. With proper care, your unusual Maine Coon mix will stay fit and healthy.
Cost
Since the Maine Coon Manx mix is not a true breed, it is pretty difficult to find one. You’re most likely to find this mix on sites like Facebook or Craigslist.
However, keep in mind that responsible Maine Coon breeders do not mix breeds, so you’re most likely to find a Maine Coon Manx mix for sale from a kitty mill or backyard breeders.
They often charge a steep adoption fee of over $500 for Maine Coon mixes, but don’t spend the money on health tests or proper medical care.
Grooming Needs
Maine Coons need a little extra effort when it comes to grooming.
Their thick, shaggy coats are especially prone to tangles and mats, and Maine Coon owners often need to trim the extra-long fur on their paws, bellies, hind legs, and bushy tails.
They require regular grooming at least twice a week, plus more during shedding season.
Manx cats have short yet thick fur that needs to be brushed about once a week.
While their coats aren’t very high maintenance, they still produce a regular amount of the fel D 1 protein, which is responsible for causing allergic reactions in some people.
Even though a Manx Maine Coon mix would most likely have short fur, unfortunately for allergy sufferers, this hybrid is not hypoallergenic.
When it comes to dental care, it’s best to brush their teeth once a day. However, many vets know just how difficult this can be, so they often offer alternative solutions such as gels or dental treats.
You should also make sure to trim your Maine Coon Manx mix’s nails every few weeks and wipe out their ears with a damp cloth as needed.
Lifespan
While many purebred cats are prone to health issues, the Maine Coon is known to be quite hardy.
Maine Coons and Maine Coon mix breeds tend to live between 12 and 15 years old, while Manx cats generally live between 10 and 14 years old (source 1).
If you look at the research study conducted by Katrina Stewardson the Director of Maine Coon Central, she discovered that of 127 votes, 29% of the voters of Maine Coon Cats lived between 15-16 years.
This surprising information may just drag up the lifespan likelihood of a Manx Maine Coon Mix cat!
Good With Other Pets?
Maine Coon Manx mixes make great family pets because they get along great with cats and dogs!
Maine Coons especially are known to make fast companions with other animals, and Manx cats are also considered friendly and open to strangers.
However, Maine Coon cats are known to have a very high prey drive, so it’s best to keep Maine Coon mixes away from small pets like birds or mice.
Conclusion
The Manx Maine Coon mix is an odd combination of the famous tailless cat and the huge Maine Coon.
This is not an official breed like Maine Coon cats, but you can expect this hybrid to have a friendly, energetic, and laidback personality like both parent breeds.
Overall, it is a better idea to get a purebred cat like a Maine Coon than a Maine Coon Manx mix, as they’re more prone to health problems.
However, if you are determined to get a Maine Coon Manx mix, you can expect this breed to make a wonderful family pet!