Why the name Munchkin?

The term ‘munchkin’ was derived from the tiny inhabitants of the Munchkin Country where L. Frank Baum created in his novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

Munchkins are also called ‘sausage cats’ because of their short legs, giving them a unique, peculiar appearance.

But the length of the legs is not an abnormality but a natural congenital mutation of the autosomal dominant gene.

It is the same gene that gives Welsh corgis and dachshunds their small stature. While this gene is not sex-linked, it becomes harmful to the embryo when one or both parents have them.

This is why domestic mating or a Munchkin bred with a regular domestic cat is recommended to ensure healthy offspring.

Moreover, a Munchkin cat is not a miniature version of other breeds in the cat kingdom. It is a distinct breed that keeps its kitten-like looks even if it matures in age.

Breeding History

The first record of short-legged cats was documented in 1944 when a British veterinarian reported about the four generations of cats with normal features, except for the legs.

However, the line became extinct during the Second World War.

Another account that described short-legged cats in Russia was recorded in 1956, and then another during the 1970s in the United States.

The most recent record happened in 1983. It was a story of two pregnant cats that were chased by a dog under the truck.

Music teacher Sandra Hochnedel of Louisiana kept one of them and named it Blackberry. Half of the kittens of Blackberry were short-legged.

Hochnedel gave one short-legged male kitten to her friend Kay LaFrance.

The male kitten was named Toulouse and became instrumental to the breeding program in North America. Today’s breed of Munchkins descended from Blackberry and Toulouse.

Munchkin cats are the youngest breed on the feline block. The International Cat Association (TICA) recognized the breed in September 1994 despite the concerns of critics about the potential issues that may affect their mobility and general health. But these little Munchkins have proved them wrong and secured their places in the cat’s world.

In May 2003, their shining moment happened after garnering the TICA Championship status.

Physical Traits

At a glance, a Munchkin breed has these characteristics:

• Legs are approximately 3 inches shorter compared to other cats
• Weighs about 6 to 9 pounds
• Height is about 5 to 7 inches
• Body size is approximately a foot and a half long
• Can be longhaired with a silky smooth coat or medium-length sleek coat
• Coat shades and patterns of Munchkin cat can be solid black, pure white, calico, tabby, or gray
• Eye colors include green, copper, yellow, brown, blue, and others

This breed has a small to medium ‘semi-foreign’ body size. Females typically weigh 4-8 pounds, while male Munchkins are slightly bigger and weigh between 6-9 pounds.

They have a level spine with a slightly raised shoulder to the tail. The tail is tapered to a rounded tip and is upright during motion. The chest is well-rounded, and the hips are firm.

The hind legs of the Munchkin cats are shorter than their front legs and are slightly bowed. But they do not let their stumpy feet stop them from doing what they love to do.

Their eyes are walnut-shaped and are wide apart. The ears have a broader base with slightly rounded tips. They have a flat forehead, chin firm that aligns with the nose, and high cheekbones.

Behavior

Munchkin cats have a playful, active, and friendly nature. They love to chase, run, climb, and play with cat toys.

These fun-loving cats are very affectionate and love to snuggle with their human friends. When they are not playing, Munchkins love to explore.

They are naturally curious about everything in their immediate environment and love wrestling with feline friends or house dogs.

They can do what other cats do, except leap to the kitchen counter. Munchkins can bound like ferrets and run very fast.

They love sitting on their haunches like the prairie dogs or perch on their legs like rabbits to get excellent views of the surroundings.

The funny thing about Munchkins is they love to hoard small, shiny objects like jewelry and buttons, then stashing them in their hideaway.

They are also proficient hunters who love to chase pesky house mice around. Munchkin cats are highly intelligent, confident, and courageous.

Health

In 1995, to end the speculations that Munchkins could suffer from spinal troubles that are usually seen among short-legged dog breeds, some breeders of Munchkin cats subjected their oldest cats to X-rays.

The result revealed no bone or joint issues in their spinal column.

However, due to their genetic disorder that caused dwarfism, they are more susceptible to severe osteoarthritis. To find out if your pet has it, assessment, and diagnosis of the severity, a radiography procedure is necessary.

Like other domestic cats, the Munchkin breed is likely to suffer from these common health issues:

• Uremia, which a kind of kidney disorder
• Pancreatitis or inflammation of their pancreas
• Hyperthyroidism due to hormonal imbalance
• Lower urinary tract disease
• Lymphosarcoma, a type of cancer that affects feline/canine

Cost

The price of a Munchkin cat depends on a lot of factors — pedigree, age, gender, color, and breeder’s reputation and location. Freebies like vaccines, insurance, and checkups also determine their price. More freebies mean a higher rate.

The average cost of Munchkin cats ranges from $250 to $500. Males and senior Munchkin cats are cheaper. Popular breeders sell this breed between $1,000 and $2,000.

Famous munchkin cats

• Lilieput - Lilieput is the 13.34 cm munchkin from Napa, California, recognized by the Guinness World Records as the shortest living cat.
• Albert -This Instagram Munchkin cat superstar loves modeling trendy apparel and enjoying a pampered life. He has over 450,000 followers.
• Shorty and Munchkin - They are the two Munchkin cats of Paris Hilton, which she fondly called her ‘low-rider kitties.’
• Stalingrad kangaroo cat - A short-legged cat that enjoyed sitting on its haunches lived in Russia in the ’50s.

Breeds derived from munchkin cats

Due to their great personality and unique features, Munchkin cats have become a popular breed choice.

Here are the notable breeds of Munchkins and other domestic cats:

• Skookum is the result of cross-breeding a Munchkin and a LaPerm.
• Minskin or Bambino is the breed of hairless Sphynx and a Munchkin.
• Lambkin is a mix of a Munchkin and a Selkirk Rex.
• Scottish Fold Munchkin Cat or Scottish Kilt is a mix of a Munchkin and a Scottish Fold.
• Minuet or the Napoleon is a cross-breed of a Munchkin and a Persian (also Himalayan or Exotic Shorthair).
• Genetta is a mix of a Munchkin and a Bengal.
• Kinkalow combines the traits and features of a Munchkin and an American Curl.

Where can I get a Munchkin cat?

You can buy a purebred Munchkin from a breeder. There are also ready-for-adoption Munchkin cats from rescue organizations near your area. You can check out local animal shelters via the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Adopting a munchkin cat could cost you around $75 to $100.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Munchkin cats live?

The lifespan of munchkin cats is 12 to 15 years. Expect them to live this long when they enjoy preventative veterinary care, recommended immunizations, a good diet, and lots of TLC.

How do I care for my munchkin cat?

They require minimal grooming care and assistance. A long-haired cat needs frequent brushing, while a short-haired kitten requires at least once a week to keep the coat tangle-free. Occasional bathing would make your kitten clean and hygienic. Keep the ears cleaned and nails trimmed. Brushing its teeth twice a week and a regular visit to his vet are highly recommended.

What composes a good diet for Munchkins?

The dietary need of Munchkins is similar to other domestic cats. A wet diet is best for meals and dry food for treats. Always have a bowl of clean, fresh water to keep your kitten well-hydrated. For older, obese, or diabetic Munchkin cats, get a special diet from its vet.

Are munchkin cats hypoallergenic?

For those who are asking this question, the answer is ‘No.’ They shed moderately and are perfect for people with light to no allergies.

Can they be trained?

Munchkin cats are intelligent creatures. They can be trained to walk on a leash and fetch objects. They are also responsive to clicker training. To help them explore heights, a cat tree is a good idea.

Are Munchkins good pets?

They are one of the sweetest and cuddliest cat breeds, so having one is a good idea. Munchkin cats easily adapt to indoor living conditions and would like nothing but to snuggle during their afternoon nap. They get along with other house pets and children. If you have active kids who love jumping and running around, a Munchkin cat is a cool fur-playmate.

Takeaway

Undeniably, these adorable tiny fur babies are one of the most popular designer breeds. Their vibrant, easy-going, and warm personality is truly a delight. If you’re looking for a pet to own, the munchkin cat is worth checking out.

Thinking whether to get a dog or a cat as your pet? Read ”Should I Get a Dog or a Cat?” to learn more.