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. It's a condition in which the cat's spine does not grow correctly. It is important to comb them on a regular basis to remove loose hair and prevent mats and tangles. Munchkin cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however it is best to offer a high-protein diet. If you have a long-haired Munchkin cat, daily grooming is essential. 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. The appeal of a playful, fluffy Munchkin cat is undeniable. If you think your cat may be experiencing uremia, contact your vet right away. This then allows the spine to 'collapse slightly' and curve into the body. With its large eyes, folded ears, short legs, and playful personality, this cat is one of the most sought-after cats in the world. Each time you make a purchase through one of our independently-chosen links, well receive a percentage of the proceeds. Fluffy Munchkins might need more frequent grooming than short-haired kitties, but in general, this breed has a low-maintenance coat. The Munchkin Cat: A New Breed Of Cat With Short Legs [9][12] The Munchkin breed achieved TICA Championship status in May 2003. But is that ethical? These adorable cats can live for up to 15 years so make sure you research the cat breed that best fits your lifestyle because it will not be a short-term commitment. Much controversy surrounds the breed, as not all breeders take responsibility for preventing painful issues that adversely affect the welfare of the individuals they produce. Do you know where I can get some help with this? Responsible breeders do their best to ensure that kittens are healthy and comfortable in their bodies. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. Allowing, Self-awareness in animals is often seen as a sign of intelligence, and it is something that scientists have looked at, https://www.ufaw.org.uk/cats/munchkin-limb-deformity, https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-are-the-health-and-welfare-issues-associated-with-exaggerated-physical-features-in-cats/, https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/ivdd-in-cats/#:~:text=IVDD%20happens%20when%20discs%20become,out%20of%20a%20high%20window, https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_ct_spinal_malformations, https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1098612X13514975?journalCode=jfma. Munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum, or a concave chest. The Munchkin cat is a fun-loving cat who enjoys interacting with kids, other cats, and even dogs. Congenital Heart Defect (Atrial Septal Defect) in Cats. If your Munchkin has a short coat, then you'll want to brush them just once or twice per week to remove any loose hair. Munchkin cats come in three different heights: Standard, supershort, and rug hugger. Just like human cancer patients, animals with lymphosarcoma are commonly treated with chemotherapy. If a person sincerely cared for their animals, he or she would not intentionally deform them in this manner. The Average lifespan for Munchkin is 12-15 years. Comb short-haired Munchkins once a week. [30] The condition has sometimes been referred to as hypochondroplasia or pseudoachondroplasia. You might liken the Munchkin cat to one of the hot dog dog breeds such as the Dachshund. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cats lower back. Muckenkin cats are at risk for spinal deformities, lordosis, and scoliosis. It should taper and have a rounded end. Normal mm kittens will not, as they do not have a copy of the munchkin gene. Because the Munchkin cat is a rare breed, it is in high demand. [1][10], The Munchkin comes in all coat colors and patterns. [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. Check on Facebook there are also good reputable breeders on line. 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. Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of your cats thyroid hormone, which results in a metabolic rate thats higher than average. Leave the cat alone.. Munchkin Cat Facts: 8 Amazing Things You Didn't Know Theres no denying that a munchkin cat is a wonderful addition to any family. To get a better view, theyll often stand on their hind legs. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that results in the breakdown of the tissues in your cats joints, such as the bone and cartilage. Responsible Munchkin breeders outcross cats with the short legged gene with cats that do not carry the gene. Fecal and urinary incontinence are common, as well as constipation and urinary tract infections. In mild cases, IVDD is often successfully managed with pain medications, physical therapy, and steroids, although it can continue to worsen over time. However, it is important to be aware of the signs of this condition, as it can be fatal if left untreated. People breeding cats for their looks and charm are common reasons for doing so. Simons recommends that all cats, Munchkins included, be brushed weekly. Cats that have been diagnosed with this defect should not be bred, nor should their parents be bred further, since congenital spinal and vertebral malformations are hereditary. What do you think? The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Hyperthyroidism is most common in older cats and is characterized by an increased appetite in combination with weight loss. Munchkin cats are a medium-sized breed of cat known for their characteristically short legs and long body. There are many different options for treating hyperthyroidism, including oral medication, radioactive iodine therapy, a prescription diet, and surgery. Some of the first signs that your cat is suffering from osteoarthritis are changes in your cats gait or even lameness in one or more limbs. Munchkin Cat Health Problems - VetInfo The munchkin gene is an autosomal dominant one. We recommend to look at https://tica.org/munchkin-breeders. While some say that Munchkin cats arent able to jump as high as other cats simply because their legs are so short, others argue that they avoid jumping because it causes them pain. [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). Why Isnt My Puppy Eating and What Can I Do About It? 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. Male Munchkins typically weigh between 6 and 9 pounds (2.7 and 4.1 kg) and are usually larger than female Munchkins, which typically weigh between 4 and 8 pounds (1.8 and 3.6 kg). With extra short legs that contribute to the breed's nickname "Dachshund of the cat world," these kitties tend to be on the small side. Spaying and neutering is strongly recommended for these animals. Keep your munchkin cats litter box clean to avoid additional health issues, and make sure to feed them a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. This disorder can not only decrease joint mobility, but it also causes pain and increases the likelihood of injuries to unaffected joints since the cat may offload from the painful limb, increasing wear and tear on other body parts. While some cats dont seem to be affected by this downward curve, it can cause spinal pain, leaning to one side, and lead to reduced movement. A natural genetic mutation gives the Munchkin cat breed those short legs, but otherwise their build is quite average for a small cat. Pectus Excavatum 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. On the other hand, vertebral malformations can be latent until the cat undergoes a growth spurt, sometimes not becoming apparent for several months. Cats with very short legs look like miniature cats in the same way that cats with long legs look like miniature cats in the same way that cats with long legs look like miniature cats in the same way that cats with long legs look These dogs are friendly, affectionate, and easy to train. They may have short or long hair, and they come in every color imaginable. Munchkins are highly desirable and their popularity has led to lots of people willing to prey on people looking to adopt one. Munchkin kittens take to litter training quickly, especially when you reward them with cat toys and treats. Scottish Fold Munchkin Cat: Everything You Need to Know As well as shorter limbs, munchkin cats are more prone to lordosis and pectus excavatum than other cats. Shes the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. They are also expensive, and both breeders and scammers have taken advantage of that fact. The cost of a reputable kitten from a reputable breeder can range from $700 to $1,100, depending on a variety of factors. 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. Pectus excavatum is a deformity of the cartilage of the sternum and ribs. 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]. Breeds that score higher in this area have strong hunting instincts that make them great playtime companions. Their mobility, for the most part, isnt terribly affected by having shorter legs. They may have short or long hair, and they come in every color imaginable. You may have seen some videos of the short-legged Munchkin cat, or sausage cat, on the Internet. (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' grooming routines vary depending on their coat length. Feline urinary tract disease, also called FLUTD, is a serious condition that can impact cats of any breed. At Excited Cats, we regularly consult with licensed veterinarians and other industry experts. 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. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. 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. Saying they can jump or run like a normal cat would be false, she says. If neurological signs (paralysis) are present, a myelography can be used to indicate with precision at which level the spinal cord is compressed. A cats length is measured from the base of the tail to the tip of the nose. Munchkin - Animal Corner The term pectus excavatum literally means hollow breast in Latin. Some people believe that munchkin cats are cruelly treated because they are bred to have a genetic defect that causes their legs to be abnormally short. 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 the malformations lead to secondary spinal cord compression and trauma, the affected cat will display ataxia and paresis. Controversial Munchkin Cat Health Problems and - Kittentoob Females are usually smaller than males. Muckenkin cats can develop spinal deformities such as lordosis and scoliosis, among other issues. These cute cats have full-grown bodies with petite legs, making them an adorable feline. Every year, millions of animals are killed in U.S. shelters. Below, we will go over some of the most common health problems Munchkin cats develop. Similarity to other breeds is grounds for disqualification. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Plus they offer carrier services if you cant make it to Orlando to pick up your cutie. However, the information found on Excited Cats should not be viewed as veterinary advice. [16] Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene, with two copies of the gene, are not viable and do not develop in the womb. Breeds with high activity levels will engage more in active play and demand more space and attention. "Lordosis" is a deformity of a cat's lower spine, and "Pectus Excavatum" occurs when the ribs and sternum don't grow properly. 18 Facts About Munchkin Cats - Cat-World If your Munchkin becomes overweight, Simons suggests talking to your vet about a weight-loss diet. 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. 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. [15] Several cat registries do not recognize the Munchkin: Fdration Internationale Fline, which refuses to recognize what they consider a breed based on a "genetic disease", achondroplasia. Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat. The Munchkin Ragdoll Cat - An Adorable Addition To Any Family There is a condition, for example, that is characterized as the curving of a cat's spine in its lower back called lordosis. Spinal malformations are usually evident at birth or in the first few weeks of life. 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. In severe cases, pectus excavatum can be repaired via surgical intervention. Her rescuer, Sandra Hochenedel, gave one of the male short-legged kittens to a friend named Kay LaFrance. This disease is often manageable with a combination of medications and a specialized diet that prevents crystal formation. Do Munchkin Cats Have More Health Problems Than Other Cats? Shorthaired Munchkins have plush, soft coats. Although not a disorder within itself, decreased mobility impacts a large number of Munchkin cats. [9] It is from Blackberry and Toulouse's litter that today's Munchkin breed is descended. Since they're so low to the ground, they are able to make tight turns like a low-slung racecar! Some individuals also suffer from a condition called pectus excavatum, which causes a hollow chest. This causes the breastbone to sink in. This educational content is not veterinary advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. In fact, a genetic mutation that causes short legs is relatively new to the Munchkin breed. Lordosis, a genetic disorder, affects no one, but it is found in the Munchkins. . Others believe that munchkin cats are not cruelly treated because they are not in pain and they appear to be happy and healthy. Scoliosis (a lateral curvature of the spine) is also an easily visible form of vertebral malformation. 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. However, these are not a health concern free cat breed. Like many unusual cat types (including the Cornish rex . Would like to adopt a munchkin cat in mass. Munchkin cats are a relatively new breed of cat, having only been around since the 1980s. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. These cats must be bred in a cruel and irresponsible manner. 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. Munchkin are long-haired cats, so you do have to expect a certain amount of shedding from this breed, but they don't shed as much as other cat breeds. 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 are known for their short legs and playful personalities. Only kittens that are heterozygous for the munchkin gene, with only one copy, develop into viable short legged munchkin kittens. Secondary damage due to spinal compression may be avoided if surgical intervention takes place early on. Surgery is often recommended in moderate to severe cases.. 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. While life expectancy is fairly consistent across all cat breeds, some breeds tend to live shorter or longer than others. The Munchkin is a small to medium-sized cat (males are slightly larger than females), typically weighing between 5-10 pounds. While their short legs may make them look like theyre always dressed up for Halloween, they are actually a very friendly and affectionate breed of cat. Because Munchkins can have long or short coats, keep an eye on your Munchkins fur and brush her regularly to prevent mats or tangles. Because a Munchkin is a short-legd cat, it can be bred with other cat breeds to create a new variety of munchkin. The first known records of a short-legged cat date back to 1944. There is no easy way to know what impact this has on welfare. If they experience whisker fatigue with a bowl, a flat plate or mat may be preferable for some cats. Over time, unmanaged or poorly managed hyperthyroidism can lead to hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness. In fact, breeding cats, whether munchkins or other types, can have a negative impact on pet overpopulation. 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. It is common for munkey cats to be born with short legs and other genetic flaws that can lead to health problems. This cat, later named Blackberry, was pregnant and gave birth to a litter that included some kittens with short legs. 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. [2] The Munchkin is considered to be the original breed of dwarf cat. This is especially important given that short-legged cats such as Munchkins and Munchkin mixes are prone to spinal issues such as lordosis. 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. Munchkin cats cost between $1,000-$2,000. In serious cases, it can cause the heart, lungs, and other organs to compress over time, leading to severe discomfort and early death. 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. Owners of Munchkin cats should keep an eye out for overfeeding issues, as do Dachshunds and Corgis. Munchkin cats may be of any color and pattern imaginable. As Munchkin cats get along very well with other pets including well-mannered dogs, they will enjoy playtime together when given the opportunity. Cats with this condition, known as mollusks, show signs of disorganization and behavior as if they were other cats. Caring For a Munchkin Cat - Breeding a Lordosis Cat The Munchkin cats with long legs do not carry the heterozygous gene (a cell containing two different alleles). The Munchkin, also known as Sausage Cat, is a breed of cat characterized by its very short legs, which are caused by genetic mutation. This type of behavior is not acceptable in any way from anyone who has the best interests of animals at heart. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. It is a short-legged breed of cat similar to dachshunds. But she isnt going to take your money and not make with a cat. As the cancer grows, it spreads from the lymphatic system and metastasizes into multiple parts of the body. Pancreatitis is characterized by inflammation of your cats pancreas. The Munchkins' short legs make them unable to leap and snatch at things. Can I be notified when one comes available? As you might have guessed, this breed is named after the Munchkins from The Wizard of Oz. Lordosis is an abnormal spinal shape in which the spine slopes or dips down into the chest cavity. 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. 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! What You Need to Know! Lymphoma is a type of cancer that specifically attacks the lymph nodes, which are located throughout the body. This condition causes compression of the heart, says Simons. [1], Currently, the only registries that fully recognize the breed are TICA and the Southern Africa Cat Council. Learn more. Thanks to social media, Munchkin cats are becoming more widely known and well-loved by many people. Non-standard Munchkins are not allowed to be shown. However, while lymphosarcoma can be treated, like other cancers, it cannot be cured. The Munchkin Cat: A New Breed Of Cat - Munchkin Kitten Store Munchkin Cats: Is Breeding Deformity Animal Abuse? - CatTime