Cymric
The long-haired Manx — a tailless, plush-coated family favourite.
The Cymric (pronounced KIM-rick) is simply the long-haired version of the Manx cat. Sharing the same Isle of Man origins, Cymrics are sturdy, round-bodied cats that may be fully tailless (rumpy), have a short stub (stumpy), or a near-full tail. Their silky double coat adds elegance to an already characterful breed. Cymrics are playful and devoted, often following their favourite human from room to room.
Key facts
| Origin | Isle of Man, Canada |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 8–12 lbs |
| Lifespan | 8–14 years |
| Energy | Medium |
| Vocality | Low |
| Grooming | Brush 2–3 times a week to prevent mats |
| Shedding | Medium |
| With children | ●●●●● |
|---|---|
| With other pets | ●●●●● |
| For beginners | ●●●●○ |
| Apartment life | ●●●○○ |
Pros & cons
✓ What's great
- Exceptional family companions
- Get along brilliantly with dogs
- Quiet and calm indoors
- Deeply loyal and affectionate
✗ Things to know
- Manx syndrome risk requires careful breeder selection
- Medium-to-heavy grooming commitment
- Can be territorial with unknown cats
Ideal owner
A Cymric may suit you well if you:
- Are a first-time cat owner looking for a forgiving, adaptable breed
- Have children or a busy, sociable household
- Already have dogs or other cats at home
A Cymric may not suit you if you:
- Have significant cat allergies
Health considerations
Like all breeds, Cymrics can be predisposed to certain conditions. A reputable breeder will screen for these, and regular vet check-ups help catch issues early.
- Manx syndrome (shortened spine can cause nerve damage in some individuals)
- Arthritis in the tailbone area
Is a Cymric right for you?
The best way to find out if a Cymric suits your lifestyle is to take the What Cat? breed quiz — it weighs your living space, schedule, household, and preferences against all 68 breeds in our encyclopedia.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Cymric a good cat for first-time owners?
Yes — Cymrics are an excellent choice for first-time cat owners. They are adaptable and forgiving, with a temperament described as: devoted, playful, and dog-like in their loyalty.
Are Cymrics good for apartments?
Cymrics can manage in apartments with the right setup — climbing structures, puzzle feeders, and regular play sessions to meet their activity needs.
Are Cymrics good with children?
Cymrics are generally excellent with children. They are patient, tolerant of handling, and social enough to enjoy the energy of family life including young children.
Are Cymrics hypoallergenic?
Cymrics are not specifically hypoallergenic and produce standard levels of Fel d 1, the main cat allergen. If allergies are a concern, consider breeds like the Siberian, Balinese, or Devon Rex.
Does a Cymric suit your lifestyle?
Take the free 18-question What Cat? quiz to find out — and get a full ranked list of breeds matched to your real life.
Take the free quiz →Further reading: Cymric on Wikipedia