Fluffy Munchkins might need more frequent grooming than short-haired kitties, but in general, this breed has a low-maintenance coat. They are characterized by their short legs, which is the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation. Shes always had a cat in her home and has spent countless days with others, observing behaviors and softening up even the grouchiest of the lot. The Osbornes bred sphynx cats, carrying the recessive hairless gene, with munchkin cats that carried the dominant short-legged gene. Dwarf cats, like regular cats, are susceptible to health problems, but they can live long and happy lives if properly cared for. Kittens bearing two copies of the munchkin gene (MM) will not develop in the womb. Read more here. This can also increase the likelihood of other conditionslike osteoarthritisdeveloping. While bathing isnt necessary, Lott says the occasional bath can help cut down on shedding, if thats a particular concern. Hepper.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. [11] Amidst much controversy, the Munchkin was proposed as a new breed by foundation breeders Laurie Bobskill and Robert Bobskill of Massachusetts and accepted by TICA into its New Breed development program in September 1994. If you want to see a short-legged cat, go and watch a cartoon. Responsible Munchkin breeders outcross cats with the short legged gene with cats that do not carry the gene. When two munchkin cats are crossed and small litter sizes occur, this indicates that embryos that are homozygous for the munchkin gene are non-viable.[32]. [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 line disappeared during the Second World War but other short-legged cats were spotted in Russia during 1956 and the United States in the 1970s. Medicine often does not resolve neurological manifestations of spinal and vertebral malformations. Their offspring formed the foundation for the Munchkin cat breed as we know it today. IVDD is painful and can lead to permanent spinal damage and even paralysis. Your pets quality of life with chemotherapy depends on how aggressive the cancer is; if your cats lymphosarcoma is low-grade, your cat can have a relatively normal quality of life. 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. The first known records of a short-legged cat date back to 1944. Although some cats develop problems as a result of their posture over time, they are more like any other cat, just a little closer to the ground. Brooke spent nine years as a veterinary assistant before becoming a human nurse in 2013. You might liken the Munchkin cat to one of the hot dog dog breeds such as the Dachshund. 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. So, are munchkin cats that bad? Munchkin - Animal Corner . (2023 Price Guide), Yesterdays News Cat Litter Reviews in 2023: Pros, Cons, & Final Verdict, The latest veterinarians' answers to questions from our database. It is a good idea to comb them once a week. (According to Science), How to Train a Rottweiler to Be a Guard Dog 6 Tips and Tricks, How Much Does a Scottish Fold Cost? Munchkin cats may not be able to jump high, but they are surprisingly nimble and agile on ground level. There is no definitive answer to this question. See also: Munchkin Cat Facts: 8 Amazing Things You Didnt Know, Featured Image Credit: SV_zt, Shutterstock, 4 Homemade Grain-Free Cat Treat Recipes (Vet Approved). Breeds with a high affection level want to give and receive a lot of attention, while less-affectionate breeds are not as interested in petting and snuggles. Many Munchkins experience limited mobility in their spine due to a variety of factors, like their elongated back length compared to their height. A munchkin cat is a short-legged cat breed. Their mobility, for the most part, isnt terribly affected by having shorter legs. 2. For Munchkin cats, they are often especially prone to deformities of the forelimbs. Munchkins are prone to a congenital (present from birth) malformation called lordosis, an inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, says Simons. [1], Currently, the only registries that fully recognize the breed are TICA and the Southern Africa Cat Council. To compensate for a genetic mutation, the Munchkin breed was born with abnormally short legs. [1][10], The Munchkin comes in all coat colors and patterns. Feline lower urinary tract disease, or FLUTD, is a catch-all phrase for several different conditions of the urethra and bladder in cats. Lott says the average price for a Munchkin cat is typically $1,000$1,500. Lordosis causes a shortening of the muscles that hold the spine in place, allowing it to sink down into the chest cavity. Here are seven facts you might not have known about these adorable, stubby-limbed pets. The Munchkin cat is a small to medium-sized breed that matures to an average weight of 5 to 9 pounds. A genetic defect in their cartilage allows them to have shortened limbs; this is a distinguishing feature of the Munchkin breed. Breeds that score higher in this area are able to spend hours alone, while less-independent breeds require plenty of attention. This then allows the spine to 'collapse slightly' and curve into the body. Critics claimed that these cats can suffer from back and hip problems similar to those experienced by short-legged dog breeds. 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. It's a condition in which the cat's spine does not grow correctly. Their short legs are caused by a naturally occurring genetic mutation that is caused by an autosomal dominant gene. Mowkin cats are not intended for household use, so if you want a fluffy pet, dont buy one. There are numerous examples of munchkins who are friendly, sociable, and playful. The Munchkin cat is a fun-loving cat who enjoys interacting with kids, other cats, and even dogs. This condition is rare in cats, but cats with elongated and malformed spines, like Munchkins, can be at a higher risk. 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. You might think that Munchkin cats can't jump. Despite their short legs, they are extremely vulnerable to health problems. https://www.mypets.net.au/munchkin-cat/. Munchkin Cat Facts: 8 Amazing Things You Didnt Know. [4][36] Diagnosis of osteoarthritis and the assessment of its severity for a cat may require radiography. [4], 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]. Use the suggested servings on the cat food label as your guide for meal portions, but talking with your vet is best for determining how much food your cat needs. Since they're so low to the ground, they are able to make tight turns like a low-slung racecar! Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of your cats thyroid hormone, which results in a metabolic rate thats higher than average. Height is measured from the top of the head to the bottom of the front paws. Munchkin cats can and do appear naturally sometimes. 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. Comb short-haired Munchkins once a week. Lordosis is a dip in the portion of the spinal column located in front of the shoulder blades. If you want one with rare coat colors and a champion bloodline, they will charge between $2,000 and $3,000. As well as shorter limbs, munchkin cats are more prone to lordosis and pectus excavatum than other cats. Munchkin Cats: Is Breeding Deformity Animal Abuse? - CatTime Since only one parent has the mutation, the kittens can survive and be sold for a high price. Munchkin Cats: Just As Active As Their Larger Counterparts It may appear surprising that Munchkin cats are just as active and lively as their larger counterparts given their diminutive size. Answered by Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, BVM BVS (Vet), My Dog Ate a Chicken Bone! A cats length is measured from the base of the tail to the tip of the nose. To get a better view, theyll often stand on their hind legs. For each kitten conceived from this mating, there is a 25% chance it will fail to gestate, a 25% chance it will be normal, and a 50% chance it will be short-legged. In the earliest stages of this disease, your Munchkin may begin to experience difficulty with visual acuity at night and in low light situations. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. But she isnt going to take your money and not make with a cat. Munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum, or a concave chest. Breeds that score higher in this area have strong hunting instincts that make them great playtime companions. Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat. The typical adult body length among individuals of this breed. This type of behavior is not acceptable in any way from anyone who has the best interests of animals at heart. Munchkin Cat: Info, Pictures, Characteristics & Facts | Hepper orally, intravenously, or subcutaneously. Munchkin Cat Facts: 8 Amazing Things You Didn't Know Based on the name, you may be able to guess that this condition has to do with your cats chest. In fact, the opposite is true: Munchkin cats are capable of running at high speeds. Teacup cats are small cats that have been bred to be so small. This cat is not concerned about its unusual appearance because it is confident and outgoing. These cute cats have full-grown bodies with petite legs, making them an adorable feline. Widening the gene pool can reduce these problem. Scottish Fold Munchkin Cat: What You Need to Know Aside from these serious health issues, the cat may also suffer from lower urinary tract disease or hyperthyroidism. The result is a fluffy and friendly feline that's perfect for nearly every household. In Munchkins, this deformity is due to their front legs being shorter than their back legs. In some cats, this spinal deformity can lead to compression within the chest, decreasing their ability to properly perform body functions that are vital to survival, like breathing. If youre lucky you may find one for 1000 dollars but most likely it will be up to three times more expensive. Therefore, the fact that some breeders selected for the munchkin gene was controversial. There is no treatment for osteoarthritis, but it can typically be managed to a degree with treatment modalities like pain medications, physical therapy, and low-impact exercise. Spinal malformations are usually evident at birth or in the first few weeks of life. Keep an eye out for anything unusual. Hepper is reader-supported. Muckenkin cats can develop spinal deformities such as lordosis and scoliosis, among other issues. 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. Check out diva kits Scottish Fold Munchkins she is legit but you may have to wait for your kitty. Long-haired Munchkin cats typically display very soft, silky coats. Over time, the breakdown of the joint cartilage can also lead to abnormal bone growth around the joint and a thickening of the joint capsule. The Munchkin Cat Breed: Everything You Need To Know - Catinformer.com This doesnt just apply to their shortened legs, either. The Munchkin is a highly social cat that enjoys being around people. Below, we will go over some of the most common health problems Munchkin cats develop. Breeders also like to point out thatbreeding cats with a genetic mutation that causes short legs is no different than breeding short-legged dogs like Corgis or Dachshunds. This disease involves a combination of factors, like inflammation of the urinary tract and crystals in the urine. Some registries, such as the Fdration Internationale Fdline, have yet to recognize the breed. After all, there are many cats that need homes in shelters across the country. Do Munchkin Cats Have Health Problems? - Munchkin Cat Guide If a person sincerely cared for their animals, he or she would not intentionally deform them in this manner. 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. 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. 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. Hope that helps. The name "munchkin" derives from writer L. Frank Baum's diminutive inhabitants of Munchkin Country, originating in the 1900 novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. While these cats may look cute, their adorable, stout physique may come at a price. Munchkin cats can live between 12 and 15 years, but if they have health problems, their lifespans shorten. Since Munchkin cats love to play, it isn't at all difficult to encourage them to get enough exercise. Leg length affects the height only; the rest of the cat's body is proportioned like that of an average domestic cat. How Much Are Munchkin Cats It ranges from $1000 to $2000 USD. Symptoms include loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, and depression. Because a Munchkin is a short-legd cat, it can be bred with other cat breeds to create a new variety of munchkin. 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. To keep them safe, keep them indoors if they have difficulty climbing stairs or staying up tall. In the world of the Munchkin cat, there is never enough company. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that results in the breakdown of the tissues in your cats joints, such as the bone and cartilage. The paws should be round and compact. The appeal of a playful, fluffy Munchkin cat is undeniable. Since they aren't likely to leap onto tall tabletops and high display shelves, members of the Munchkin cat breed might be ideal for people who love cats but worry about the impact they might have on collectibles. Keep an eye out for any areas they seem to be missing or unable to reach. What You Need to Know! In the mildest cases, lordosis can cause shortness of breath. The tail should be of medium length about the same length as the cat's body. This can lead to urinary blockages, which are a medical emergency that must be dealt with immediately to prevent bladder rupture, sepsis, and death. 8 Reasons for This Behavior, Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? Intervertebral disc disease, also called IVDD, is a disorder in which the spine experiences changes that can lead to herniation of the protective layers between the vertebrae and protrusion of the disc within. Cat Nail Biting: What to Do If Your Cat Chews & Pulls His Claws, Why Is My Kitten So Hyper? 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. Is breeding deformity a form of animal abuse? This cat features short legs, straight ears, and a long body. Bambino: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care - The Spruce Pets The Cat World Designer Cat ("Anti-munchkin") Debate The munchkin gene is an autosomal dominant one. This cat, later named Blackberry, was pregnant and gave birth to a litter that included some kittens with short legs. Brooke loves all animals and currently shares a home with three dogs, two cats, five fish, and two snails. Anytime a cat is seen straining in the litter box without passing urine, producing bloody urine, yowling, or experiencing abdominal hardness or swelling, they should immediately be seen by a veterinarian. If youre away from the house a lot, consider getting your kitty a furry friend. Feed your Munchkin a measured meal two to three times a day, using a life stage-appropriate food (kitten, adult, or senior). Is there an available list to look at? 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. Mm munchkin kittens will be able to pass on the munchkin gene to their own offspring. The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. 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. Compared to many other cat breeds, it is a relatively new breed, documented since 1940s[1] and officially recognized in 1991. The cost of a reputable kitten from a reputable breeder can range from $700 to $1,100, depending on a variety of factors. Cow-hocked legs are also penalized. Mild causes of pectus excavatum may show no clinical signs, whereas severe cases lead to cardiac and respiratory issues. Fecal and urinary incontinence are common, as well as constipation and urinary tract infections. There are cats who live for up to 15 years, but some older ones have health issues that shorten their life span. But do Munchkin cats have more health issues than other cat breeds? A natural genetic mutation gives the Munchkin cat breed those short legs, but otherwise their build is quite average for a small cat. The symptoms listed can have many different causes, such as urinary stones, a urinary infection, or a urethral obstruction. 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. Others believe that munchkin cats are not cruelly treated because they are not in pain and they appear to be happy and healthy. Can I be notified when one comes available? 8. 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. Any help would be appreciated, Your email address will not be published. Solid colors, tabbies, harlequins, and pointed varieties are a few examples. Hyperthyroidism is most common in older cats and is characterized by an increased appetite in combination with weight loss. Keep your kitty's claws clipped to prevent damage to your belongings, and consider teaching your kitten to allow toothbrushing from a young age. This in turn puts pressure on the trachea, lungs and heart. Breeds with high activity levels will engage more in active play and demand more space and attention. Munchkin cats' grooming routines vary depending on their coat length. Kittens bearing one munchkin gene and one normal gene (Mm) will be short-legged munchkins. Eyes may be of any color. [6][7][8], Short-legged cats have been documented a number of times around the world since the 1940s. In fact, breeding cats, whether munchkins or other types, can have a negative impact on pet overpopulation. 3. . Lordosis Pectus Excavatum Hypochondroplasia Osteoarthritis Minor Conditions: Gingivitis: A common gum disease in cats that causes redness and swelling of the gums. Image Credit: https://www.catster.com/cats-101/about-the-munchkin-cat, Image Credit: One thing is certain: Bring a Munchkin into your home, and you'll instantly fall in love with their adorable looks and charming personalities. While Munchkin cats have not been shown to have the same spine problems that short-legged dogs tend to have, some still view the practice of breeding animals to emphasize certain physical characteristics as irresponsible. Lordosis is the most common health issues that these cats might face. Cost to Treat $150-$2,500 (surgical) Pumpkin Plans Pay Back* $135-$2,250 Osteoarthritis Munchkins are predisposed to osteoarthritis due to their shorter than average limbs. It can come with a range of severity, from mild to severe. Plus they offer carrier services if you cant make it to Orlando to pick up your cutie. However, it certainly doesnt make them healthier and provides them with no specific advantages. Most Munchkins dont require any intervention for this deformity, though. There is a condition, for example, that is characterized as the curving of a cat's spine in its lower back called lordosis. These short cats tend to be confident and outgoing pets that have no qualms about exploring their environment and making new friends. Jumping and climbing (especially on cat trees with low entry points). Surgery can be helpful for cases involving narrowing of the spinal canal and decompression of the spinal cord. Munchkin kittens game is a card game that is based on the popular childrens book series, The Munchkins. Breeds are grouped by their size and coat type. [30] The condition has sometimes been referred to as hypochondroplasia or pseudoachondroplasia. 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! Thanks to social media, Munchkin cats are becoming more widely known and well-loved by many people. The breed's story begins in 1983, when a female cat was rescued in Louisiana. Furthermore, they are affectionate, sociable, and great pets in their own right. Many cats are prone to developing hyperthyroidism, and Munchkins are no different. She stands 5.25 inches (133mm) tall. Some individuals also suffer from a condition called pectus excavatum, which causes a hollow chest. This results in shortened and often deformed limbs. If the malformations lead to secondary spinal cord compression and trauma, the affected cat will display ataxia and paresis. 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. While it is true that their leaps are not as impressive as those of average sized cats, many individuals can make it from the floor to the seat of the couch or the top of your bed with ease. Look for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the abdomen, lack of appetite, and lethargy. Muckenkin cats are at risk for spinal deformities, lordosis, and scoliosis. Munchkin cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however it is best to offer a high-protein diet. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Sure they may look cute to some. Munchkin cats are most commonly identified by their short legs and long bodies. If your cat has an opening in the skin where the spinal malformation is present, it may be surgically repaired. 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. Munchkin cats come in three different heights: Standard, supershort, and rug hugger. However, Munchkins do not shed more than your typical cat. A high-quality, beautiful, and beautiful body will set you back between $1500 and $3500 for a mummy kitten. 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. In cats over the age of six, hyperthyroidism is most common, and this condition is also known as metabolic syndrome. In serious cases, it can cause the heart, lungs, and other organs to compress over time, leading to severe discomfort and early death. In severe cases, pectus excavatum can be repaired via surgical intervention. Malformation of the occipital bones atlas and axis (the first and second cervical vertebrae at the base of the skull): Causes compression of the upper spinal cord, which can lead to paralysis, sudden death, Wedge shaped vertebrae, causes angle in the spine, Most likely to affect the neurological system, Rear limb weakness (paraparesis), paralysis, Has characteristics of two types of vertebrae, May result in cord compression, disc changes, Fused vertebrae due to improper segmentation of vertebrae, Vertebra with a cleft through the body and a funnel shape at the ends (giving appearance of butterfly on X-ray examination), Causes instability of the vertebral canal, and rarely, compression of the spinal cord with paralysis, Lack of vertebral arches in the spinal column, Accompanies sacrococcygeal dysgenesis a defective formation of the lowest vertebrae in the spine, resulting in a stumped tail, Variable spinal dysplasia (abnormal development); dysraphism (defective spinal fusion); syringomyelia (cyst in the spinal cord); hydromyelia (enlarged central canal in the spinal cord where excess cerebrospinal fluid builds up); and myelodysplasia (defective development of the bone marrow), Weakness in rear limbs (paraparesis), hopping gait, Inherited as an autosomal dominant trait in the Manx breed, Congenital spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal - malformation from birth, hereditary). She has a soft spot for special needs animals and has a three-legged senior dog and an internet-famous cat with acromegaly and cerebellar hypoplasia. They are also expensive, and both breeders and scammers have taken advantage of that fact. 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. The name isnt the only adorable thing about the Munchkin. Here are some of the most common issues that occur in Munchkin cats. Munchkin cats do not have specific nutritional requirements, Simons says. [9] She kept one of the cats and named her Blackberry and half of her kittens were born short-legged. The Munchkin is often a healthy, short-legged cat. "Lordosis" is a deformity of a cat's lower spine, and "Pectus Excavatum" occurs when the ribs and sternum don't grow properly. He has a long, skinny body, walnut-shaped eyes, and triangular ears. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, intravenously, or subcutaneously. These cute cats are instantly lovable because of their short legs, long bodies, and loving personalities. Surgery is often recommended in moderate to severe cases.. Inflammation, infection, urinary obstruction, diet, and behavioral issues are all possible causes of lower urinary tract disease.
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