This short, stump-like or even absent tail phenotype is characteristic of breeds such as the Manx cat or Pixiebob.
Definition
The short tail trait in Manx and Pixiebob cats is characterized by a variety of phenotypes ranging from total absence of the tail to short tails and stumps. This distinctive feature is determined by genetic mutations in the TBXT gene (formerly known as the Brachyury gene), which encodes a key protein in vertebrate notochord development, i.e., the formation of the caudal vertebrae that form the tail.
Genetic basis
The final expression of this trait is influenced by interactions with variants in different genes that affect the vertebral development and physical structure of the cat. In this case, we studied the c.1166del deletion of the TBXT gene. This trait is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, which means that a single copy of the variant is sufficient for cats to express the trait.
Other relevant information
An interesting fact is that tail length in Manx and Pixiebob cats does not follow a uniform pattern. Within the same litter, there may be cats with completely absent tails ("rumpy") and others with almost complete tails ("longie"). This variability is due to incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity of mutations in the TBXT gene.
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