06/09/2023
LEARN MORE ABOUT MUNCHKIN KITTENS
About the Breed
Munchkin cats are ordinary domestic cats that have extraordinarily short legs due to a natural genetic mutation. Discovered in the UK in the 1940s, the short-legged lineage was perpetuated by breeding, but it wasn’t until 2003 that munchkins were accepted as an official breed by The International Cat Association
Despite their controversial breed status, munchkin cats make loving pets that delight their owners with humorous antics like scurrying after toys in a “ferret-like” fashion and sitting upright like rabbits. Munchkin cats are cute, short-legged felines that look and act like the breed(s) in their family history. There is a controversy involving the ethics of breeding cats with abnormally short legs, but the breed appears to be healthy and free of skeletal issues such as those that affect the Scottish fold. If you have no qualms about perpetuating the anatomical abnormality of the munchkin breed, then you will enjoy the playful and friendly companionship of this unique cat.
Munchkins are sometimes compared to ferrets in the way that they run and play on their short legs, but they are bona fide felines. Because munchkins may be bred to a wide variety of domestic cats, an individual cat’s personality will depend on its inheritance. All-in-all, munchkins have been described as loving, sociable, and playful by their devoted fans.
Care
Grooming the munchkin’s short coat sheds minimally. Weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt or tool, or a hound glove will help to remove shed hair and keep him looking his best. Brushing promotes new hair growth and distributes skin oils throughout the coat to help keep it healthy. A munchkin’s facial folds should be kept clean and dry. The Munchkin’s nails should be trimmed regularly, as overly long nails can cause him pain.
Training
Shorthaired cats should be brushed weekly and long-haired cats should be brushed a couple of times per week. Regular brushing helps prevent hairballs and matting. You should also trim your cat’s nails, help your cat maintain oral hygiene by brushing its teeth a couple of times per week, and get regular cleanings at the veterinarian
Nutrition
Your munchkin cat should be fed the same diet as any other cat. A munchkin is a medium-sized cat with a weight and body mass that is not significantly affected by having short legs. A wet food diet is often considered best, but you can leave out dry food for your cat to snack on as well. Discuss your cat’s needs with your veterinarian, especially if your cat has diabetes, is obese, or is older. Provide fresh, clean water for your cat at all times.
