The Cymric is a breed of long
haired cat. They are often considered to be a long haired variety of the
Manx breed of cats rather than being considered a completely distinct
breed. In fact except for the long hair traits of cymric, both the
breeds are similar to each other in all aspects. The word Cymru from
which this name Cymric is derived is the indigenous Welsh name of Wales,
though this is a myth that this breed of cat has any relation with the
Welsh, the origin of cat is related to the successor of Manx Cats from
the Isle of Man. Though most of the cat associations believe Cymric to
be an original breed, the TICA and ACF regard it as a variety of the
Manx.
History
Though the official acceptance of Cymric as a breed is a very recent
phenomenon, the breed has existed on this earth for a long time. Their
origin is traced back to the Isle of Man, an island located in the Irish
Sea between England and Ireland where it is said to be introduced by
human settlers and explorers. Cymric was earlier known to be Longhaired
Manx, its name was later changed to be the name was changed to Cymric in
1970s.
According to the records of the island, the special trait of
taillessness in Cymric began as a mutation amongst Isle of Man's
domestic cat population. As there is not much scope of varied gene pool
in this small island, this trait became dominant and was passes from one
generation to other along with the long hair genes. Many long haired
tailless kittens were born from Manx but were often discarded as
mutants. However, when the same kinds of kitten were born in Canada in
1960, they were treated with much respect and some time later recognized
as a breed.
Appearance
The Cymric cat is identified as a tailless furry cat with a round head
and full eyes. It is compressed and chubby in appearance. It has a short
and thick neck over a mall to medium-sized muscular body. Adult males of
Cymric breed weigh 9 to 13 pounds; adult female cats weigh 7 to 11
pounds. The ears of Cymric cat are medium-sized and widely spaced,
narrowing gradually to a rounded tip.
The hair of Cymric cat is mid length and dense over the main body adding
more to its chubby appearance. The hair gradually grows from shoulders
to rump. The hair on the abdomen and neck ruff is usually longer than
that on the main body. The cheeks of Cymric cats are thick and full and
its facial hair extends towards its cheeks like bib. This cat breed has
impressive tufts.
Personality
Cymric cats are intelligent, funny and are friendly with other pet
animals. They are impressive learners and are very soft and non-fussy in
nature. They are very obedient and loyal to their owners. Cymrics very
quickly bond with their human companions. They love cuddling and lap
swinging. Some of the Cymric cats' owners describe them as cute as teddy
bears. Though they love company, they are usually not overly demanding
of attention. They love water and love playing with it, however do not
assume they love bathing. They are moderately active and playful.
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