Munchkin Cat

Read our comprehensive guide to Munchkin Cats, including information on predisposed health issues, exercise needs, family friendliness, grooming, history, overview & temperament.

Cat
17 Oct 2023

History of Munchkin Cats 

Short-legged cats have existed for many, many years, but the munchkin cats were only recognised officially as a breed by the International Cat Association in 2003. Despite this, tiny cats have been recorded around the globe throughout history.

Small short-legged cats have been appearing naturally in many litters due to genetic mutations, but these days the munchkins are specifically bred to produce cats with little legs. In 1983, a short-legged cat called Blackberry gave birth to a litter of kittens that began the line of the modern-day munchkin.

What to expect when caring for your Munchkin Cat

Common Munchkin Cat Health Issues

Munchkin cats are generally a healthy breed, but of course like any other pet they can still be affected by certain health issues.

Congestive heart failure: this is a condition that occurs when your cat’s heart isn’t pumping enough blood to other parts of the body which causes fluid to back up in the lungs.

Urinary tract infection: this is an infection of the urinary system, and in cats can manifest as reduced amounts of urine, struggling to urinate, urine with blood etc.

Pancreatitis: a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed quickly over a short period of time.

Due to munchkins short legs, it’s important to keep them active so that they maintain a lean body condition and avoid obesity.

How Much Grooming Do Munchkin Cats Need?

Munchkin cats are quite easy to groom, and many of them tend to have short coats that are easy to maintain. Brushing them once a week is usually enough, but for those munchkins who have a longer coat they should be brushed twice a week to prevent and remove mats or tangles.

Other grooming munchkin cats require includes regular nail trimming and ear cleaning.

How Much Exercise Do Munchkin Cats Need?

Munchkin cat owners should aim to keep their little furry friend as active as they possibly can, as keeping them inactive can often lead to obesity especially because of their short legs.

Whilst they don’t need too much in the way of human-guided exercise, it’s still good for them to play and exercise daily as much as they can to keep them healthy and stimulated.

  1. Munchkin Cat Personality Traits

    What to expect from your Munchkin Cat

    Munchkin cats are quite active and friendly cats that get on well with humans of all ages as well as other pets. These little kittens are quite curious and love to explore their surroundings – you’ll often see them perching on their hind legs like a rabbit just to get a better view of what’s around them. Munchkins have quite a fun-loving attitude that carries on into their adulthood too. If they’re not playing with their toys or running around having fun, you can find them snuggling up to their favourite people. They’re known to be quite confident extroverts, and are always full of energy and love to play their environments.

  2. Are Munchkin Cats Family Friendly?

    How will they behave around my family?

    Munchkin cats are very family friendly felines, and they’ll often be found spending their time snuggled up with their favourite humans. They’re quite an easy-going breed, so they get on well with everyone, including small children, dogs and other cats too. Whatever your family situation is, munchkin cats will fit right in. they make a wonderfully loving addition to any family, and have been described as “social butterflies”, so you know they’ll be at ease around anyone.

Key Facts Summary
Size:
5-7 inches
Weight:
6-9 pounds
Temperament:
Sociable, affectionate, playful
Lifespan
12-15 Years
Average Cost:
£200+

Munckin Cat FAQs:

Are munchkin cats genetically modified?

No, munchkin cats are not genetically modified, contrary to popular belief – the short legs are actually caused by a naturally occurring gene.

Do munchkin cats stay small?

Fully grown munchkin cats will have the same head and body size as normal cats, but their legs will be significantly shorter which makes them look a lot smaller than other fully grown cats.

Do munchkin cats need special care?

No – despite their small build and shorter than normal height, munchkin cats do not really need any particular special care beyond keeping them healthy and happy.

There are a number of common health issues that Munchkin Cats are prone to, and as a pet owner it’s worth considering insurance to help protect against unexpected vet bills. Take a look at Asda Money Cat Insurance to see the kind of cover you could get for your cat.

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