Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Overview
The Cymric is a rare breed derived from the Manx cats of the Isle of Man. Its defining characteristic—the absence of a tail—was established naturally through selection. Later, breeders developed a longhaired version known as the Cymric, while some individuals exhibited shorter coats, leading to the formation of a distinct shorthair type. Targeted breeding of these cats began in the mid-20th century to solidify a stable standard. The Cymric Shorthair retains a compact, rounded body, strong limbs, and the characteristic facial expression of its longhaired counterpart. The breed has been recognized in several feline systems and is valued for its originality and even-tempered disposition.
General Appearance
The Cymric is a medium-sized cat of harmonious proportions, with a strong skeleton and well-developed musculature. The body is rounded and compact, conveying strength and stability. The back is short and broad, the chest deep, and the abdomen firm. The hind legs are longer than the front, giving the body a slightly elevated appearance. The head is round with smooth contours and full cheeks. Eyes are large, slightly rounded, with a gentle and expressive look. Ears are medium in size and well set. The tail is either absent or very short, a key breed trait. The coat is short, dense, and plush, with a rich undercoat. The overall impression is of a solid, compact cat with a distinctive appearance.
Important Proportions
The breed displays balanced proportions of body, head, and limbs. The body length is moderate and should correspond to its height. The broad chest and solid bones emphasize the cat’s sturdy build. The head is round and proportional to the body, without sharp angles. The tail—or its absence—must harmonize with the body’s rounded form and not disturb symmetry. The limbs are balanced: shorter in front, longer and more muscular in the rear, creating a characteristic lifted silhouette. The height of the hind legs emphasizes compactness and power. The cat must not appear elongated or coarse.
Temperament and Character
The Cymric is known for its calm, steady, and friendly temperament. These cats are sociable, easily bond with people, and enjoy spending time with their families. They are peaceful and get along well with children and other pets. Despite their compact build, they are active and agile, capable of high jumps thanks to strong hind legs. Intelligent and observant, they learn simple commands quickly. Aggression or excessive shyness is undesirable. The breed’s temperament combines playfulness, loyalty, and composure, making the Cymric a devoted and well-balanced companion.
Head
The head is round and broad, with soft lines and no abrupt transitions. The forehead is moderately rounded, the back of the head full and curved. Cheeks are well developed, giving the face a gentle, friendly look. The chin is firm but not heavy, balanced with the rest of the head. The profile shows a slight curve, with a smooth transition from forehead to nose. The skull is short, broad, and proportionate to the body. The head should convey harmony and softness, emphasizing the breed’s rounded contours.
Facial Features
The muzzle is short and round, without coarse lines. The nose is medium in length, broad at the base, and straight, with a gentle curve at the forehead. Cheeks are full and rounded, giving an expressive appearance. The chin is solid and well defined, yet not protruding or heavy. Lips are soft and close-fitting. The muzzle should maintain smooth, balanced forms consistent with the round head.
Eyes
Eyes are large, expressive, and slightly rounded, set wide apart. They enhance the cat’s gentle, open facial expression. The color depends on coat shade but should always be vivid, clear, and even. The gaze is bright and intelligent, reflecting calmness and friendliness. The contour of the eyes is distinct, with slightly lifted outer corners, creating an alert, charming look. Eye color must harmonize with coat tone to preserve overall balance.
Ears
Ears are medium in size, wide at the base, and rounded at the tips. They are set far apart, complementing the round head. Outer lines are smooth, with no sharp angles. The inner surface is well covered with hair, and small tufts are acceptable. Ears should be proportional and positioned to give a harmonious, friendly expression typical of the breed.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, strong and muscular, merging smoothly into the shoulders and body. It must be proportional—neither too long nor too thick. The lines are gentle, emphasizing the breed’s rounded and compact appearance. The musculature, particularly in adults, is well developed, giving stability and strength. The neck should create an impression of balance and elegance in movement.
Body
The body is compact, rounded, and firm, with a broad chest and strong back. Of medium length and well muscled, it has a deep chest, straight back, and solid abdomen. The outline should be smooth and rounded without angularity. The sides are even and well filled, projecting harmony and unity. The Cymric appears robust but not heavy, maintaining a balance of strength and elegance.
Tail
The tail is either completely absent or significantly shortened. When present, the tail bone is short and may vary in form—from no tail at all to a small knob or short stub. All tail variations within standard limits are acceptable. The tail must be strong, proportionate, and never cause discomfort. A tail that is too long or malformed is a fault. The hallmark of the breed is a harmonious, tailless silhouette.
Forelimbs
Forelegs are short, strong, and straight, balanced with the compact body. Shoulders are muscular and well angled for stability. The bones are solid but not coarse. Legs must be parallel when standing or moving. Paws are round, compact, and firm, with well-developed pads. The forelegs emphasize the breed’s strength and balance. Weak, thin, or bowed limbs are faults.
Hind Limbs
Hind legs are distinctly longer than the forelegs, giving the body its characteristic raised hindquarters. They are muscular, with solid bones ensuring power and balance. Thighs are strong, hocks straight and well formed. In motion, the legs should remain steady and aligned. Paws are round, compact, and resilient. Hind limbs highlight strength, agility, and balance.
Gait and Movement
The Cymric moves with a confident, smooth, and elastic gait. Strong hind legs provide energetic movement and a slightly raised rear line. The motion should be balanced, coordinated, and powerful. When running or jumping, the cat shows remarkable strength and control. Movements must be smooth and free; stiffness, imbalance, or weakness are faults.
Coat
The coat is short, dense, and plush, lying close to the body. The texture is soft yet springy, with a well-developed undercoat that adds fullness and protection. The fur must be even in length and density, glossy, and healthy. Bald spots, overly soft or sparse fur, or dull coloration are faults. The coat emphasizes the breed’s compact form and neat, well-kept appearance.
Acceptable Colors
All colors are accepted except chocolate, lilac, fawn, cinnamon, and their combinations with white. Solid, smoke, tabby, bicolor, tricolor, silver, and golden shades—including shaded and chinchilla—are allowed. Eye color should correspond to coat tone: blue or odd-eyed for white cats; yellow, copper, green, or matching hues for others. Dull or mismatched eye colors are faults.
Size
The Cymric is a medium-sized breed. Males are larger and more muscular, weighing 4.5–6 kg, with a stronger bone structure. Females are lighter, 3.5–4.5 kg, yet remain sturdy and balanced. Though medium in height, their long hind legs give the body a slightly raised appearance. The overall impression must remain compact and balanced, without elongation or heaviness.
Faults
Faults include deviations from the breed’s compact, rounded type: an overly long body, coarse bones, weak limbs, or a flat chest. A medium-length tail or one inconsistent with the standard lowers the score. A narrow head, weak chin, or elongated muzzle are also considered faults. In coat, excessive softness, thinness, lack of undercoat, or dullness are undesirable. Eye irregularities, poor coloration, or imbalance with coat tone are faults. Gait issues, stiffness, or instability are also penalized.
Disqualifications
Disqualifying defects include serious anatomical or behavioral faults. Absence of the breed’s defining feature—taillessness—excludes the cat from shows and breeding. Spinal deformities, limb curvature, joint defects, or severe gait abnormalities lead to disqualification. Head deformities, asymmetry, jaw or bite defects are not permitted. Patchy fur, unhealthy skin, or non-standard coloration are disqualifying. Aggressive or extremely fearful behavior also disqualifies. Cats lacking ICCF documentation are not eligible for shows or breeding.
Important Notes
Cymric breeding must consider the genetic specificity related to taillessness. All pairings must comply with ICCF breeding regulations to prevent hereditary disorders or skeletal deformities. Breeders must ensure strong spines and limbs, maintaining health and structural integrity. The breed’s temperament—friendly, calm, and sociable—must be preserved. Coat care is simple but requires regular grooming, especially during shedding. At shows, emphasis is placed on harmony, proportional balance, and correct facial expression.
Conclusion
The Cymric is a unique breed combining natural originality with structural harmony. Its rounded body, sturdy frame, tailless feature, and calm temperament make it both rare and endearing. Recognized by the ICCF, the breed is eligible for exhibitions and breeding only with official documentation confirming origin and conformity to standard. This ensures purity, health, and preservation of breed characteristics. ICCF-recognized Cymrics may participate in international shows, earn titles, and contribute to the breed’s global development and appreciation.
