Moderate severity

Spina Bifida

A birth defect where the spine and its protective covering do not close fully during development, seen most often in tailless Manx cats and affecting the lower back and hind end.

⚠️ Common symptoms

A hopping, bunny-like gait or wobbly hind legsWeakness or poor coordination in the back endDifficulty controlling passing urine or faecesA dip, dimple or tuft of abnormal hair over the lower spineSigns present from a very young age

Spina bifida is something a cat is born with rather than something it catches. During development in the womb the spine normally closes into a protective tube around the spinal cord; in spina bifida that closure is incomplete, most often low down the back, leaving the nerves that serve the hind end and bladder vulnerable to being malformed or exposed.

In cats the condition is bound up with the Manx breed. The same genetic change that gives the Manx its trademark taillessness can also shorten and disrupt the lower spine, which is why the defect shows up more frequently in tailless and stumpy-tailed cats. The visible clues are often a dimple or unusual tuft of hair over the lower back and, more tellingly, a distinctive hopping walk.

How much it affects daily life varies enormously. Many cats are only mildly involved and get around perfectly well, while others struggle with weak back legs or with controlling their bladder and bowels and need thoughtful, ongoing help. With attentive care to keep them clean, comfortable and free of urinary infections, even more affected cats can enjoy a good quality of life, which is why early assessment and a tailored plan matter so much.

🔍 Causes

Spina bifida is a developmental defect present at birth, in which the bony arches of the vertebrae and the tissues around the spinal cord fail to close completely. In cats it is linked most strongly to the same gene that removes the tail in the Manx breed, which can also disrupt the lower spine and spinal cord, so it appears more often in tailless and very short-tailed cats.

🛡 Prevention

Because the condition is genetic and tied to the tailless Manx trait, prevention centres on responsible breeding — avoiding pairings known to produce severely affected kittens and following breed guidance designed to reduce spinal defects. For an affected cat, prevention shifts to avoiding complications such as urinary infections and skin sores through good routine care.

💊 Treatment

There is no cure, so care focuses on managing the individual cat's needs. Mildly affected cats often live full, happy lives with little help. Those with bladder or bowel problems may need help expressing the bladder, careful hygiene to protect the skin, and monitoring for urinary infections. Your vet will tailor a plan and advise on keeping the cat comfortable, mobile and clean, and on watching for complications.

When to see a vet: Have any kitten with a hopping gait, weak back legs, or trouble controlling urine or faeces checked by a vet so its needs can be assessed early. Seek prompt care if an affected cat strains to pass urine, seems unable to empty its bladder, develops sore or soiled skin, or shows signs of a urinary infection, as these need active management.

⚕️ Medical disclaimer

  • This information is educational only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.
  • Symptoms overlap between conditions — only a vet can diagnose accurately.
  • Never withhold treatment or self-medicate based on information found online.
  • When in doubt, call your vet. Early intervention almost always leads to better outcomes.

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