What breeds of cats don't have tails? - briefly
Some cat breeds are known for their taillessness, primarily due to genetic mutations. The most notable ones include the Manx and the Japanese Bobtail.
What breeds of cats don't have tails? - in detail
There are several cat breeds that are known for their lack of tails or shortened tails, often due to genetic mutations or selective breeding practices. One of the most recognizable breeds in this category is the Manx cat. The Manx originates from the Isle of Man and is characterized by a naturally occurring genetic mutation that results in a range of tail lengths, from no tail at all (rumpy) to a full-length tail (longy). However, the most common variants are the rumpy and stumpy, which have very short tails.
Another well-known breed with a tendency towards taillessness is the Japanese Bobtail. This breed hails from Japan and is distinguished by its distinctive short tail, which can be straight or curved like a pompom. The genetic mutation responsible for this trait is different from that of the Manx cat.
The American Bobtail is another breed that often has a shortened tail due to a dominant gene mutation. Unlike the Japanese Bobtail, the American Bobtail's tail can vary significantly in length and shape, but it is typically shorter than average.
Additionally, some individual cats within certain breeds may be born without tails due to spontaneous genetic mutations. For instance, while not a specific breed trait, Siamese cats can sometimes be born tailless, although this is relatively rare.
In summary, the most prominent cat breeds known for their lack of or shortened tails are the Manx, Japanese Bobtail, and American Bobtail. Each of these breeds has a unique genetic mutation that contributes to their distinctive appearance.