Despite their short legs, these creatures make a smooth transition from room to room. If you have a long-haired Munchkin cat, daily grooming is essential. Munchkin cats are considered highly sociable, playful, and intelligent, Simons says. TICA granted the Munchkin cat breed championship status in 2003, but no progress toward advancing the Munchkin's status in the world of cat fancy has occurred since then. 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. The Munchkin cat is so much more than an adorable little pet: These cats are sweet natured, personable, and playful. They thrive in households with children as well as other pets. While the average lifespan of a Munchkin cat is 12 to 15 years, it may also develop health problems as a result of its short legs. Breeds are grouped by their size and coat type. Lordosis, a genetic disorder, affects no one, but it is found in the Munchkins. Some breeders believe Lordosis in Munchkin cats results from the defective gene causing the short legs. With its large eyes, folded ears, short legs, and playful personality, this cat is one of the most sought-after cats in the world. For Munchkin cats, they are often especially prone to deformities of the forelimbs. As you might have guessed, this breed is named after the Munchkins from The Wizard of Oz. Breeders intentionally breed Munchkin cats with regular-sized cats or cats who are just naturally shorter and do not have the Munchkin gene to produce kittens with short legs. But do Munchkin cats have more health issues than other cat breeds? This type of cancer can be treated in some instances, but it is not always treatable. In addition to their official names, most breeds earn a few nicknames. Their short legs are caused by a naturally occurring genetic mutation that is caused by an autosomal dominant gene. Scoliosis (a lateral curvature of the spine) is also an easily visible form of vertebral malformation. 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. Breeds with a higher rating in this area tend to be gentle and patient, while lower-rated breeds may feel uncomfortable with children. Since Munchkin cats love to play, it isn't at all difficult to encourage them to get enough exercise. Nicole Cosgrove. Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. Learn more. They may also have some compression around the heart that can lead to decreased cardiac functionality. That, she says, makes this breed predisposed to osteoarthritis and mobility issues. 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). Inflammation, infection, urinary obstruction, diet, and behavioral issues are all possible causes of lower urinary tract disease. 8 Reasons for This Behavior. If your Munchkin becomes overweight, Simons suggests talking to your vet about a weight-loss diet. It should taper and have a rounded end. The munchkin cat is caused by a naturally occurring genetic mutation. This congenital defect occurs when the last few ribs and sternum do not grow normally, leading to a hollowed-out chest appearance, says Simons. The head should be a modified wedge shape with rounded contours, and should be of a size that is proportionate to the cat's body. 8. Breeds that score higher in this area have strong hunting instincts that make them great playtime companions. The dominant gene of the Munchkin cat is referred to as a lethal gene, which means that if two of the cats mate and pass on the dominant gene, the kittens will not survive. Munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum, or a concave chest. This disease involves a combination of factors, like inflammation of the urinary tract and crystals in the urine. Surgery is often recommended in moderate to severe cases.. If your cat is showing neurological signs such as dizziness, seizures or paralysis postoperatively, restricted activity combined with physical therapy may be helpful. These playful, friendly cats have legs about 3 inches shorter than your typical cat. If you are not feeding your cat fresh food, be sure to choose a high-quality brand that includes real meat or fish as the first ingredient. The typical adult body length among individuals of this breed. While each individual has a unique personality, breed-specific genetics affect qualities like sociability, playfulness, and intelligence. "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. While all Munchkins have limb deformities to some degree, some experience significant difficulties with mobility because of it. In addition to their need for companionship, Munchkins are intelligent, and enjoy toys and games. The Munchkin, also known as Sausage Cat, is a breed of cat characterized by its very short legs, which are caused by genetic mutation. In severe cases of lordosis, a highly specialized and risky surgery can be performed to correct the spinal deformity or to increase space within the chest. Widening the gene pool can reduce these problem. They are also known as thieves, as they will steal things off counters or dressers, and play with it until it disappears.. In severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary to maintain quality of life. Therefore, the fact that some breeders selected for the munchkin gene was controversial. To identify a munchkin cat, look for short front legs with slightly taller back legs and a long body. Brooke spent nine years as a veterinary assistant before becoming a human nurse in 2013. If the malformations lead to secondary spinal cord compression and trauma, the affected cat will display ataxia and paresis. Decreased mobility can also lead to difficulties with everyday activities, like jumping to and from surfaces and playing. Small litter sizes when two munchkin cats are crossed indicate that embryos that are homozygous for the munchkin gene are non-viable. They are a cute cat that can be a great pet. Munchkin cats are known for being friendly and affectionate, and they typically get along well with other pets and children. The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. This greatly reduces the risk of health issues that could cause discomfort and early death. However, the Munchkin breed standards state that these cats can only be recognized if they are bred with a domestic longhair or shorthair with no recognized breeds, so they can be crossed with well-known pedigree cats to create short-legged varieties of those breeds. Having only been officially introduced in 1991, the breed is still considered young. Like many unusual cat types (including the Cornish rex . Breeds with higher grooming scores require more maintenance like brushing and bathing, while lower-scored breeds are virtually maintenance-free. [13] There is controversy among breeders of pedigree cats as to what genetic mutations are abnormal and potentially disadvantageous to the cat. These cats are known for their short legs, and they make great pets for those who are looking for a smaller, more compact cat. Munchkin kittens are susceptible to this condition, . The mating of two munchkin parents, Mm x Mm, have the chance of producing these offspring: 25% MM- a nonviable kitten, 50% Mm-short-legged, 25% mm- normal. A fully grown Munchkin cat might weigh between 4-9 pounds or more and range in height anywhere from about 6"-9" inches tall. What You Need to Know! Eyes may be of any color. The typical adult height among individuals of this breed. In the world of the Munchkin cat, there is never enough company. You will need to give your veterinarian a thorough history of your cat's health and onset of symptoms. The Munchkin cat has been the source of some controversy since being officially recognized by the International Cat Association in the 1990s. The Bambino is a new cat breed that crosses the hairless Sphynx cat with a Munchkin to create a short-legged cat with no fur. The truth is, they are 100% feline, with magnetic personalities, a strong play drive, and an intense love of cuddling. Teacup cats are small cats that have been bred to be so small. First hitting the market in 1991, Scottish Fold Munchkin cats were developed by crossbreeding a Scottish Fold and a munchkin cat. When your cat is unable to properly expel its urine, it can lead to a buildup of toxins in their bodies. If you plan to adopt a Munchkin kitten, be sure that you work with a responsible breeder or adoption agency. This educational content is not veterinary advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Read more here. No special ear care is required for Munchkin cats, but if you notice buildup, redness, or odor, talk to your veterinarian. In the earliest stages of this disease, your Munchkin may begin to experience difficulty with visual acuity at night and in low light situations. Is breeding these cats cruel or harmless? Pectus Excavatum The term pectus excavatum literally means "hollow breast" in Latin. The breed's story begins in 1983, when a female cat was rescued in Louisiana. . This gene is referred to as a lethal gene because if two Munchkin cats mate and both pass on the dominant gene, the kittens will not survive. Merrikins can live for up to 12-15 years on average if properly cared for. Vincent The Cat Gets Rare Prosthetic Leg Impants, monitoring_string = "44e5bb901650ec61e9e0af1ff1bef5fe". However, breeders have found that they can profit from intentionally breeding these cats because many people find them to be cute. How are mollusks manufactured? Does it hurt the cats? This deformity can range from moderate to severe in severity and can lead to problems like decreased exercise tolerance, coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, frequent upper respiratory infections, poor appetite, weight loss or failure to thrive, and tachycardia. And in a world where shelters are full of unwanted healthy cats, should we really be breeding deformed felines for profit? As the cancer grows, it spreads from the lymphatic system and metastasizes into multiple parts of the body. At Excited Cats, we regularly consult with licensed veterinarians and other industry experts. In general, a whisker cat can live between 12 and 15 years, though a cat with health issues may only live for a few years. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cats lower back. The munchkin breed arose from a genetic mutation. It's very important to note that breeding one Munchkin cat to another Munchkin cat can lead to serious health problems in the offspring. Do Munchkin Cats Have More Health Problems Than Other Cats? 2023 This website is owned and operated by Cliverse Media DAO LTD. The reason: controversy over whether the mutation causing the breeds short legs poses health risks. Although not a disorder within itself, decreased mobility impacts a large number of Munchkin cats. Is there an available list to look at? Michael & Christine, Diva Kits did scam me out of a lot of money. While some cats don't seem to be affected by this downward curve, it can cause spinal pain, leaning to one side, and lead to reduced movement. There are many different options for treating hyperthyroidism, including oral medication, radioactive iodine therapy, a prescription diet, and surgery. https://www.mypets.net.au/munchkin-cat/. Scoliosis (a lateral curvature of the spine) is also an easily visible form of vertebral malformation. Only kittens that are heterozygous for the munchkin gene, with only one copy, develop into viable short legged munchkin kittens. This causes the breastbone to sink in. The Munchkin cat's short legs lead people who are unfamiliar with the breed to believe that these cats are very slow-moving. The symptoms listed can have many different causes, such as urinary stones, a urinary infection, or a urethral obstruction. 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. The result is a fluffy and friendly feline that's perfect for nearly every household. Plus they offer carrier services if you cant make it to Orlando to pick up your cutie. talk to a vet online for advice >. Munchkin cats are not the only breed that suffers from the health conditions listed above, but in some cases, their abnormally short legs and long bodies may increase their risk of developing health problems down the road. Have a cat? Munchkin cats are a medium-sized breed of cat known for their characteristically short legs and long body. As a result of its short legs, it was initially rejected by the International Cat Association (TICA). Leave the cat alone.. Lott says Munchkins are a smart, trainable breed. The Scottish Fold Munchkin Cat is a unique and charming breed of cat that combines the features of two beloved breeds of catsthe Scottish Fold and the Munchkin. While this condition can be successfully treated, it is important that it is caught early. Specifically, this term refers to a defect in which an animals sternum and ribs grow improperly. 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. The educational cat health content on Cats.com is written by or reviewed by our team of veterinary experts to ensure that its in line with the latest evidence-based veterinary information and health guidelines. . Hi Michael, And because they have short legs and can experience limited mobility due to osteoarthritis or lordosis, these miniature cats can struggle to groom themselves as thoroughly as most kitties. Punnett squares, in which the M represents the dominant munchkin gene and the m represents the recessive normal gene, may be used to illustrate the chances of a particular mating resulting in a short-legged cat. You may have seen some videos of the short-legged Munchkin cat, or sausage cat, on the Internet. Be the first to get our latest updates, insider videos, cat health resources, and more. Mild causes of pectus excavatum may show no clinical signs, whereas severe cases lead to cardiac and respiratory issues. Male Munchkins typically weigh between 6 and 9 pounds (2.7 and 4.1kg) and are usually larger than female Munchkins, which typically weigh between 4 and 8 pounds (1.8 and 3.6kg). [4][36] Diagnosis of osteoarthritis and the assessment of its severity for a cat may require radiography. Hepper.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. 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. It also comes in a long-haired variety, which is shown in a separate Munchkin Longhair category. Concerns have been raised over the health impact of short legs on a spine of normal length which may lead to lordosis, a downward dip of the spine, munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum (concave chest) which causes the breastbone to sink in, and arthritis. We currently dont list any partical breeders on the site. One possible genetic health problem of Munchkin kittens is a condition called lordosis, also known as tight chest. ExcitedCats is reader-supported. Spinal malformations are usually evident at birth or in the first few weeks of life. The Munchkin cat is a fun-loving cat who enjoys interacting with kids, other cats, and even dogs. Jumping and climbing (especially on cat trees with low entry points). What You Need to Know! "Lordosis" is a deformity of a cat's lower spine, and "Pectus Excavatum" occurs when the ribs and sternum don't grow properly. Specifically, sacrococcygeal dysgenesis (defective development) is a dominant trait, while thoracic hemivertebra (chest half-vertebra) is a recessive trait. Munchkins dont require special eye care, but contact your veterinarian if you notice signs of a potential eye problem, including discharge, swelling, or cloudy eyes. Hyperthyroidism is most common in older cats and is characterized by an increased appetite in combination with weight loss. Since other indoor cats tend to live 10 to 15 years on average, we can conclude that the Munchkin cats genetic deformity does not necessarily take a toll on its ability to live a full life. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. 1. Not all Munchkin cats are bred into existence by humans. Keep all these factors in mind before you choose your next feline friend. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cat's lower back. Uremia is defined by high levels of urea and amino acids in the bloodstream. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. [31][32], However, there appear to be two conditions with increased incidence in the Munchkin breed: lordosis (excessive curvature of the spine)[33] and pectus excavatum (hollowed chest). Lordosis is an abnormal spinal shape in which the spine slopes or dips down into the chest cavity. 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. This kitten was named Toulouse, and was eventually bred back to Blackberry. 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! A natural genetic mutation gives the Munchkin cat breed those short legs, but otherwise their build is quite average for a small cat. Munchkin cats can and do appear naturally sometimes. A British veterinary report in 1944 noted four generations of short-legged cats which were similar to normal cats except for the length of the legs. Whether you have an active house filled with pets and children or live a quiet life alone, the Munchkin cat can be a tremendous companion. Is it cruel to keep a munchkin cat? Well, there is no definitive answer, as opinions seem to vary quite a bit on this topic. Lordosis Pectus Excavatum Hypochondroplasia Osteoarthritis Minor Conditions: Gingivitis: A common gum disease in cats that causes redness and swelling of the gums. Kittens bearing two copies of the munchkin gene (MM) will not develop in the womb. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Cats.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Munchkin cats are known for their short legs and playful personalities. This then allows the spine to 'collapse slightly' and curve into the body. If neurological signs (paralysis) are present, a myelography can be used to indicate with precision at which level the spinal cord is compressed. This is especially important given that short-legged cats such as Munchkins and Munchkin mixes are prone to spinal issues such as lordosis. A Munchkin cat's ears should be proportionate to the head, with broader bases and slightly rounded tips. Leg length affects the height only; the rest of the cat's body is proportioned like that of an average domestic cat. Munchkin Ragdolls are a relatively new breed of cat, and as such, they may not have any of these health problems. [32] Because only heterozygous munchkin cats are able to pass on the gene, all litters with at least one standard (short legged) Munchkin parent have the possibility of containing kittens with the phenotypes: short-legged or normal-legged (referred to as non-standard munchkin), with the genotypes of Mm or mm, where M is the trait for short legs and m is the trait for long legs. If youre considering adding a Munchkin kitten to your home, talk to your breeder about the health of their cats. Munchkin cats' grooming routines vary depending on their coat length. Hope that helps. Lordosis. Despite their short legs, they are extremely vulnerable to health problems. How much your Munchkin eats will depend on her weight, lifestyle, health, and other factors. If they do not physically express the Munchkin gene, they do not carry it. Ensure they are fed an Association of American Feed Control Officials-approved cat food appropriate for their life stage, she says. Theyre adorable, friendly, andas long as you dont mind the occasional stolen earring or baublea joy to live with. Munchkin cats have limited mobility compared to other breeds. 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. Much controversy erupted over the breed when it was recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1997 with critics voicing concerns over potential health and mobility issues. 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. Because the Munchkin cat is a rare breed, it is in high demand. Lordosis is a genetic disorder that affects other organisms, but it has no specific symptoms to the Munchkins. Similarity to other breeds is grounds for disqualification. These cats can have long or short hair coats that can be any color. [22], TICA Standards describe the Munchkin as "outgoing, intelligent, and responds well to being handled". You may have seen videos or pictures on social media of these short-legged felines, often affectionately called sausage cats, and wondered how their legs get so short. We do our best to help you better understand your cats, but the information on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. [23], In 2014, Lilieput, a Munchkin cat from Napa, California, was named the shortest statured living cat in the world by Guinness World Records. In spite of their physical limitations, however, you may be surprised to learn that, unlike short dog breeds, Munchkin cats actually have a relatively long life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that results in the breakdown of the tissues in your cats joints, such as the bone and cartilage. [9] Dr. Solveig Pflueger, a show judge, geneticist, and Chairperson of TICA's Genetics Committee was a strong advocate for the official recognition of the breed. There are numerous colors and patterns available, and the coat can be short, long, or medium-long, or it can be silky and short. In most cats, there is no obvious underlying cause for this condition, so Munchkin cats are not necessarily more likely to develop pancreatitis than other cat breeds. However, myelography is generally the diagnostic imaging technique of choice. Munchkin cats are not a new breed, but they have only recently been accepted by some cat registries. Lordosis is a dip in the portion of the spinal column located in front of the shoulder blades. Because Munchkins can have long or short coats, keep an eye on your Munchkins fur and brush her regularly to prevent mats or tangles. Responsible Munchkin breeders outcross cats with the short legged gene with cats that do not carry the gene. Medicine often does not resolve neurological manifestations of spinal and vertebral malformations. Lordosis is a spinal condition in which the spinal muscles grow too thin, giving a kitten the appearance of being short. Let us know in the comments below! This breed has gained popularity and has become a buying trend in recent years among cat owners. The spinal vertebrae form a depression downwards towards the body in the affected Munchkin cats. Learn more. Short legs can make jumping difficult for some cats, but many of them do fine. [1] TICA rules for outcrossing allows the use of any domestic cat that does not already belong to a recognized breed. Long-haired Munchkin cats typically display very soft, silky coats. This in turn puts pressure on the trachea, lungs and heart. There are cats who live for up to 15 years, but some older ones have health issues that shorten their life span. Munchkin cats are most commonly identified by their short legs and long bodies. What do you think? Breeds that score higher in this area are able to spend hours alone, while less-independent breeds require plenty of attention. Saying they can jump or run like a normal cat would be false, she says. Look for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the abdomen, lack of appetite, and lethargy. While some people believe the Munchkins short legs prevent this breed from jumping to elevated surfaces, thats not always the caseso dont assume that enticingly shiny necklace on your vanity is out of reach. Absolutely! Munchkin cats may be of any color and pattern imaginable. Responsible breeders do their best to ensure that kittens are healthy and comfortable in their bodies. This can lead to damage and pain from the nerves of the spinal cord being pressed on. If left untreated, lymphoma will inevitably lead to death. As well as shorter limbs, munchkin cats are more prone to lordosis and pectus excavatum than other cats. Breeders are quick to point out thatthese conditions can also occur in normal-sized cats, but vets have found a correlation between the genetic mutation and these health problems. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/hyperthyroidism-cats-theres-fda-approved-drug-treat-it#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20sign%20of, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/feline-lower-urinary-tract-disease#:~:text=Feline%20lower%20urinary%20tract%20disease%20(FLUTD)%20describes%20a%20variety%20of,and%20blood%20in%20the%20urine, https://kittencoalition.org/pectus-excavatum-in-kittens/#:~:text=, Pectus%20excavatum%20causes%20a%20malformation, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/lymphoma-in-cats, Cat Nail Biting: What to Do If Your Cat Chews & Pulls His Claws, Why Is My Kitten So Hyper?
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