X-rays will be retaken with each follow-up visit as well. A munchkin cat is a short-legged cat breed. If youre away from the house a lot, consider getting your kitty a furry friend. Do Munchkin Cats Have More Health Problems Than Other Cats? The Munchkin cats short legs are the subject of some controversy, as the mutation that leads to their shortened limbs causes a defect in cartilage formation, says Paula Simons, DVM, an emergency and critical care resident at Cornell University Veterinary Specialists. Visible signs of a distorted spinal column are lordosis (curvature of the spine at the lower back) and kyphosis (a posterior curvature of the spine). Its worth noting that while some official cat breed organizations, including The International Cat Association (TICA), recognize the Munchkin as an official breed, others such as the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) dont. Because of its physical features, it is a breed of cat that is particularly suited to fast and agile living conditions. Munchkin cats cannot survive if they inherit this gene from both parents, so they are only bred with regular cats. The typical adult body length among individuals of this breed. A higher rating in this area indicates a breed prone to plenty of meowing and other vocalizations, while less-vocal breeds are happy to stay quiet. To get a better view, theyll often stand on their hind legs. Read more here. If your cat is showing neurological signs such as dizziness, seizures or paralysis postoperatively, restricted activity combined with physical therapy may be helpful. Lordosis is the most common health issues that these cats might face. [4], The Munchkin has similar characteristics to normal domestic cats, due to their frequent use as outcrosses. The resulting litter will be 2/3 Mm-short-legged and 1/3mm-normal. Do Munchkin Cats Have Health Problems? - Munchkin Cat Guide Munchkin Cat Facts: 8 Amazing Things You Didnt Know. Munchkin cats are the product of a genetic mutation that causes a form of dwarfism, called achondroplasia or chondrodysplasia. A mutation causes the cats legs to be short and stubby, which is the cats most recognizable feature. One TICA judge even resigned because of the questionable ethics of breeding a cat with a genetic deformity intentionally. (According to Science), How to Train a Rottweiler to Be a Guard Dog 6 Tips and Tricks, How Much Does a Scottish Fold Cost? The Cat Fanciers Association, which does not recognize the Munchkin, considers the Bambino experimental and discourages the breed. The Osbornes bred sphynx cats, carrying the recessive hairless gene, with munchkin cats that carried the dominant short-legged gene. In this article, we will discuss Munchkin cats in more detail, the controversy regarding these cats, and health problems they commonly develop. Munchkin cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however it is best to offer a high-protein diet. You will need to give your veterinarian a thorough history of your cat's health and onset of symptoms. Although Munchkin cats, when taken care of, can live about 12 to 15 years on average, there are some health problems that can develop due to their short legs. While the munchkin trait is naturally occurring in some cats, some people prefer to avoid buying a cat that was specifically bred for this physical trait. Sure they may look cute to some. Vincent The Cat Gets Rare Prosthetic Leg Impants, monitoring_string = "44e5bb901650ec61e9e0af1ff1bef5fe". [1], In 1983, Sandra Hochenedel, a music teacher in Rayville, Louisiana, found two pregnant cats who had been chased under a truck by a dog. But beware of scammers. Let us know in the comments below! However, it certainly doesnt make them healthier and provides them with no specific advantages. They live for chases and catnip mice, and theyll never refuse a warm lap as long as they can get their paws on one. The name isnt the only adorable thing about the Munchkin. Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. Height is measured from the top of the head to the bottom of the front paws. They make ideal family pets and are all-around good natured. These are energetic cats that tend to get along with all members of the family, both humans and other pets. Specifically, this term refers to a defect in which an animals sternum and ribs grow improperly. Persian Munchkin Cat Mix (Napoleon or Minuet): Info, Pictures - Hepper While this condition can be successfully treated, it is important that it is caught early. Munchkin cats do not have specific nutritional requirements, Simons says. 1. The Munchkin has been crossed with the curly-coated LaPerm to create the Skookum,[37] the hairless Sphynx to create the Minskin and Bambino,[38][39] another curly-coated Selkirk Rex to create the Lambkin,[40] the Persian breed group (which includes Himalayans and Exotic Shorthair) to create the Napoleon (renamed the Minuet), the curled-eared American Curl to create the Kinkalow, the folded-eared Scottish Fold to create the Scottish Kilts, and also with the Bengal to create the Genetta. This causes the breastbone to sink in. In the earliest stages of this disease, your Munchkin may begin to experience difficulty with visual acuity at night and in low light situations. How to Get Cat Poop Stains Out of the Couch: 4 Stain Remover Options, Why Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet? The truth is, they are 100% feline, with magnetic personalities, a strong play drive, and an intense love of cuddling. Munchkin kittens are susceptible to this condition, . Less-intelligent breeds are less trainable but often laid-back and easygoing. Munchkin cat - Wikipedia Also known as lymphoma, lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the lymphocytes, which are cells that play an important role in your cats immune system. Because a Munchkin is a short-legd cat, it can be bred with other cat breeds to create a new variety of munchkin. These kitties don't know that their legs are far shorter than the average cat's; they simply enjoy life a little closer to the ground! Owners of Munchkin cats should keep an eye out for overfeeding issues, as do Dachshunds and Corgis. There are certain health conditions associated with Munchkin cats including arthritis and lordosis but breeders argue that these are not breed-specific. The munchkin breed arose from a genetic mutation. But she isnt going to take your money and not make with a cat. This cat is not concerned about its unusual appearance because it is confident and outgoing. On the other hand, vertebral malformations can be latent until the cat undergoes a growth spurt, sometimes not becoming apparent for several months. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Breeds with a higher sociability rating will want to spend time with you all day, while less-sociable breeds seldom seek out human interaction. The short-legged cat has been reported all over the world since antiquity, but it was not widely known until the 1980s. However, Munchkins do not shed more than your typical cat. The Munchkins series is known for its humor and light-hearted tone, and this game captures that same spirit. This in turn puts pressure on the trachea, lungs and heart. [5] Breeding of Munchkin cats is prohibited by law in several countries due to these genetic health concerns. The parent to the Munchkin cats we have today is a short-legged cat named Blackberry who was found pregnant by a teacher, Sandra Hochenedel, in 1983. Medications to soften the feces, an easily digestible diet, and occasional treatment with antibiotics is standard for some cats with spinal malformations. This condition is typically easily managed with medication and routine lab work, but in some cases, it will continue to worsen over time, even with appropriate treatment. Over time, the cat will experience a progressive loss of visual acuity until blindness sets in. However, myelography is generally the diagnostic imaging technique of choice. Munchkins are playful and kitten-like the majority of their lives, says Dawn Lott, who in addition to breeding and showing Munchkins for 23 years, serves as TICA breed chair. Some Munchkins have been found to have a skeletal condition called thoracic lordosis, though this condition (affecting the back, chest, heart and lungs). [34][35] Both conditions are commonly seen in humans with pseudoachondroplasia. Lordosis, a genetic disorder, affects no one, but it is found in the Munchkins. You might think that Munchkin cats can't jump. Video unavailable [3] Many pedigree cat associations around the world have refused to recognize the Munchkin cat due to the welfare of the breed and severity of the health issues,[4] including the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF). A Munchkin cat's legs should be short, and should be set evenly apart, with the upper and lower forelegs being of equal length. Lordosis is a genetic disorder that affects other organisms, but it has no specific symptoms to the Munchkins. Munchkin Cat Facts: 8 Amazing Things You Didn't Know Munchkin Ragdolls are a relatively new breed of cat, and as such, they may not have any of these health problems. [30] The condition has sometimes been referred to as hypochondroplasia or pseudoachondroplasia. The Munchkin cat is a hardy breed that has few specific health issues. The serious problem of pet overpopulation can be avoided if the population of cats is not artificially raised through the breeding process of cats, not just munchkins. . Others believe that munchkin cats are not cruelly treated because they are not in pain and they appear to be happy and healthy. Well, there is no definitive answer, as opinions seem to vary quite a bit on this topic. In experiencing a decrease in spinal mobility, many of these cats lack the ability to properly groom themselves, leading to poor coat and skin health. If you plan to adopt a Munchkin kitten, be sure that you work with a responsible breeder or adoption agency. This can be extremely difficult for an animal, and it can be difficult for them to understand or even know if they are ill. [2] The Munchkin is considered to be the original breed of dwarf cat. It should taper and have a rounded end. Lordosis is a spinal condition in which the spinal muscles grow too thin, giving a kitten the appearance of being short. Pancreatitis is characterized by inflammation of your cats pancreas. Since Munchkin cats love to play, it isn't at all difficult to encourage them to get enough exercise. We do our best to help you better understand your cats, but the information on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. It can come with a range of severity, from mild to severe. The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. "Lordosis" is a deformity of a cat's lower spine, and "Pectus Excavatum" occurs when the ribs and sternum don't grow properly. . Each time you make a purchase through one of our independently-chosen links, well receive a percentage of the proceeds. This is especially important given that short-legged cats such as Munchkins and Munchkin mixes are prone to spinal issues such as lordosis. Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat. Do you know where I can get some help with this? Your Munchkin cat might not need a super tall cat tree, but they need a few scratchers, particularly those that are close to the ground and within easy reach. However, it is important to be aware of the signs of this condition, as it can be fatal if left untreated. They are also expensive, and both breeders and scammers have taken advantage of that fact. Leg length affects the height only; the rest of the cat's body is proportioned like that of an average domestic cat. Lordosis, a genetic disorder, affects no one, but it is found in the Munchkins. The Munchkin cat's short legs lead people who are unfamiliar with the breed to believe that these cats are very slow-moving. These cute cats have full-grown bodies with petite legs, making them an adorable feline. Dwarf cats, according to the Munchkin cat, are all disproportionally short legs, and they are the original and most well-known of all. "Vets warn trend for sausage cats is cruel", "Genetic Welfare Problems of Companion Animals, Munchkin - Limb Deformity", "Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds: Munchkin Cat", "Breed Comparisons - Munchkin | World Cat Congress", "People Are Breeding Cats To Have Too-Short Legs", "Fokken met katten met schadelijke kenmerken of erfelijke ziektes - Nieuwsbericht - NVWA", "Code of Practice for the Breeding of Animals with Heritable Defects that Cause Disease - Agriculture", Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats in the ACT, "Tiny Napa cat stands tall in new Guinness record book", "New cat breed, Munchkin, stands on its stubby legs", "Munchkin: Fur is flying over this rare cat breed", "All You Need to Know About Munchkin Cats", "Skookum Cat Breed Information and Pictures", "Minskin Cat Breed Information and Pictures", "Bambino Cat Breed Information and Pictures", "Lambkin Cat Breed Information and Pictures", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Munchkin_cat&oldid=1151202217, Cat breeds originating in the United States, Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 22 April 2023, at 15:05. Brooke loves all animals and currently shares a home with three dogs, two cats, five fish, and two snails. The prognosis is highly variable based on how severe the cancer is, but early treatment usually provides the best prognosis. The little cat craves company from children, dogs, other animals, and strangers. When this occurs, it leads to compression of the internal organs. The Munchkin cat is a fun-loving cat who enjoys interacting with kids, other cats, and even dogs. Learn more. Hepper.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Munchkin cats can live between 12 and 15 years, but if they have health problems, their lifespans shorten. The average lifespan of the breed. But for any Munchkins that develop the conditions below or experience limited mobility due to chronic pain, its especially important to keep an eye on their weight and body composition. Based on the name, you may be able to guess that this condition has to do with your cats chest. Are Munchkin cats cute? How Long Does a Munchkin Cat Live? (Average Lifespan Data & Facts) Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of your cats thyroid hormone, which results in a metabolic rate thats higher than average. As well as shorter limbs, munchkin cats are more prone to lordosis and pectus excavatum than other cats. Due to their unique posture, this breed is prone to a few skeletal malformations as it ages. While these cats may look cute, their adorable, stout physique may come at a price. Because of the deformities associated with the form of dwarfism that Munchkins have, it does increase the risk of a variety of issues, especially those related to the musculoskeletal system. Some people have argued that the Munchkin M gene mutation can cause health problems. Mm munchkin kittens will be able to pass on the munchkin gene to their own offspring. Teacup cats are small cats that have been bred to be so small. Munchkin kittens take to litter training quickly, especially when you reward them with cat toys and treats. For each kitten conceived from this mating, there is a 0% chance it will be homozygous for the munchkin gene, a 50% chance it will be normal non-standard (long legged) Munchkin, and a 50% chance it will be a standard (short legged) munchkin. [16] The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy likewise refuses to recognize the breed, considering this breed and others like it to be "unacceptable" because they are based on an "abnormal structure or development". This can also increase the likelihood of other conditionslike osteoarthritisdeveloping. In Munchkins, this deformity is due to their front legs being shorter than their back legs. The breeds dominant personality traits. The spinal vertebrae form a depression downwards towards the body in the affected Munchkin cats. IVDD is painful and can lead to permanent spinal damage and even paralysis. Controversial Munchkin cats may be trendyto some people who find them cute, but is it cruel to breed cats with genetic deformities intentionally? Secondary damage due to spinal compression may be avoided if surgical intervention takes place early on. The typical adult weight range of this cat breed. The Munchkin cat is so much more than an adorable little pet: These cats are sweet natured, personable, and playful. She stands 5.25 inches (133mm) tall. There are many different options for treating hyperthyroidism, including oral medication, radioactive iodine therapy, a prescription diet, and surgery. The first cases of short-legged cats were documented in Russia and the United States during the 1950s and 1970s. While each individual has a unique personality, breed-specific genetics affect qualities like sociability, playfulness, and intelligence. Shes the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. Because Munchkins can have long or short coats, keep an eye on your Munchkins fur and brush her regularly to prevent mats or tangles. If the malformations lead to secondary spinal cord compression and trauma, the affected cat will display ataxia and paresis. This doesnt just apply to their shortened legs, either. Would like to adopt a munchkin cat in mass. The Pros And Cons Of Munchkin Cats - Munchkin Kitten Store A natural genetic mutation gives the Munchkin cat breed those short legs, but otherwise their build is quite average for a small cat. If they experience whisker fatigue with a bowl, a flat plate or mat may be preferable for some cats. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Scottish Fold Munchkin Cat: Everything You Need to Know Veterinarians often recommend a mix of wet food (which can help kitties stay hydrated) and dry kibble (to help reduce tartar buildup on their teeth). How Should I Introduce My Puppy to a Dominant Dog? Stay on top of cat food recalls here >, Have a dog? [1], Currently, the only registries that fully recognize the breed are TICA and the Southern Africa Cat Council. As a result of its short legs, it was initially rejected by the International Cat Association (TICA). Lordosis Pectus Excavatum Hypochondroplasia Osteoarthritis Minor Conditions: Gingivitis: A common gum disease in cats that causes redness and swelling of the gums. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not they believe it is cruel to keep munchkin cats. [23], In 2014, Lilieput, a Munchkin cat from Napa, California, was named the shortest statured living cat in the world by Guinness World Records. Check out diva kits Scottish Fold Munchkins she is legit but you may have to wait for your kitty. The condition causes pain and dysfunction as a result of osteoarthritis. In serious cases, it can cause the heart, lungs, and other organs to compress over time, leading to severe discomfort and early death. A full physical exam will be performed. In the world of the Munchkin cat, there is never enough company. Because they are frequently discarded or abandoned, the munchkin cat population has grown steadily. Munchkin Cat Breed Health and Care | PetMD Munchkin Cat Breed: Size, Appearance & Personality The munchkin gene is autosomal dominant. Lordosis, or the common cold, can pose a serious threat to these lovely little animals, so it is imperative that everyone who owns them vaccinates them against this distemper. Munchkin cats are at higher risk of this disorder developing than many other cat breeds due to their abnormal limb shape related to dwarfism. Congenital Heart Defect (Atrial Septal Defect) in Cats. Michael & Christine, Diva Kits did scam me out of a lot of money. A genetic defect in their cartilage allows them to have shortened limbs; this is a distinguishing feature of the Munchkin breed. The typical adult height among individuals of this breed. Pectus excavatum is a deformity of the cartilage of the sternum and ribs. Scottish Fold Munchkins are also prone to Polycystic Kidney Disease and Lordosis, which is a spinal condition caused by . Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. A cats length is measured from the base of the tail to the tip of the nose. X-rays of the spinal column (including all vertebrae) can often reveal the exact malformation. The short legs of the Munchkin cat, for example, have a dominant genetic mutation that contributes to their short stature. Munchkin Cats: A New Breed Of Domestic Cat Your cat will need to revisit your veterinarian every four to six months for neurological examinations and to monitor progression of clinical signs. There is no definitive answer to this question. Non-standard Munchkins are not allowed to be shown. Their mobility, for the most part, isnt terribly affected by having shorter legs. This results in shortened and often deformed limbs. Lordosis is a rare spinal condition whereby the muscles in the spine do not grow to full length. Hochenedel gave a short-legged male kitten from one of Blackberry's litters to a friend, Kay LaFrance of Monroe, Louisiana, and she named the kitten Toulouse. After a year, I requested a refund and Connie will not reply to my request going on 6 months now. This congenital defect occurs when the last few ribs and sternum do not grow normally, leading to a hollowed-out chest appearance, says Simons. Munchkin cats love to collect small, shiny objects. [2] There were early speculations that the Munchkin would develop spinal problems commonly seen in short-legged dog breeds; however, in 1995 several breeders had their oldest Munchkins X-rayed and examined for signs of joint or bone problems and found none. Be aware that, while most Munchkins have little to no trouble getting around like other felines, the mutation that causes their short legs can lead to other health issues. One thing is certain: Bring a Munchkin into your home, and you'll instantly fall in love with their adorable looks and charming personalities. [9][12] The Munchkin breed achieved TICA Championship status in May 2003. While breeders might point out that other cats can have some of the same health problems that Munchkin cats tend to inherit, its important to know exactly which health conditions they are susceptible to before bringing one home. They may also have some compression around the heart that can lead to decreased cardiac functionality. [4][36] Diagnosis of osteoarthritis and the assessment of its severity for a cat may require radiography. While present at birth, this condition is often not noticed until the cat is fully grown, at which time the defect stops progressing. Chemotherapy, surgery, and immune suppression are often successfully used to treat lymphoma in cats.

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