There are cats who live for up to 15 years, but some older ones have health issues that shorten their life span. Read more here. Like many unusual cat types (including the Cornish rex . It is a good idea to comb them once a week. This can be extremely difficult for an animal, and it can be difficult for them to understand or even know if they are ill. Munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum, or a concave chest. While bathing isnt necessary, Lott says the occasional bath can help cut down on shedding, if thats a particular concern. The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. 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. Stay on top of dog food recalls here >, Have a question? Kittens bearing one munchkin gene and one normal gene (Mm) will be short-legged munchkins. The name isnt the only adorable thing about the Munchkin. While a Munchkin cat is bred to increase its popularity, it is not intentional. There are numerous colors and patterns available, and the coat can be short, long, or medium-long, or it can be silky and short. If you want to see a short-legged cat, go and watch a cartoon. Because Munchkin cats are often so active, weight maintenance is typically not an issue. Does it hurt the cats? The appeal of a playful, fluffy Munchkin cat is undeniable. Breeders intentionally breed Munchkin cats with regular-sized cats or cats who are just naturally shorter and do not have the Munchkin gene to produce kittens with short legs. 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). Scoliosis (a lateral curvature of the spine) is also an easily visible form of vertebral malformation. Over time, unmanaged or poorly managed hyperthyroidism can lead to hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness. [9], The Munchkin cat was first introduced to the general public in 1991 via a national network televised cat show held by The International Cat Association (TICA) in Davis Oklahoma. [11] For many years, the Munchkin breed was not accepted in feline competitions due to the controversial breeding. If they do not physically express the Munchkin gene, they do not carry it. 2023 This website is owned and operated by Cliverse Media DAO LTD. It's a condition in which the cat's spine does not grow correctly. Due to this genetic defect, any Munchkin cat can only be bred with regular cats, so they cannot inherit it from both parents. 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. A munchkin cat is a short-legged cat breed. The short legs of the Munchkin cat come from a dominant genetic mutation. One TICA judge even resigned because of the questionable ethics of breeding a cat with a genetic deformity intentionally. It is not recommended to buy a munchkin cat due to the many issues that they may face. Keep your kitty's claws clipped to prevent damage to your belongings, and consider teaching your kitten to allow toothbrushing from a young age. 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. [21] The Australian Capital Territory (a territory of Australia) government consider the munchkin breed to be "malformed animals" and the deliberate breeding of them "unacceptable" because of the "genetic health problems associated with such breeding". But is that ethical? [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". Vincent The Cat Gets Rare Prosthetic Leg Impants, monitoring_string = "44e5bb901650ec61e9e0af1ff1bef5fe". Just like human cancer patients, animals with lymphosarcoma are commonly treated with chemotherapy. The Munchkin Cat: A New Breed Of Cat With Short Legs Compared to many other cat breeds, it is a relatively new breed, documented since 1940s[1] and officially recognized in 1991. This condition causes compression of the heart, says Simons. 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. 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. They may also have some compression around the heart that can lead to decreased cardiac functionality. It should taper and have a rounded end. [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). The History Of Munchkin Cats: From Fictional Characters To Scottish Folds, If A Cat Meets These Criteria Then It Can Be Considered A Munchkin, Is Friskees Extra Gravy Pate Cat Food Any Good, What Is The Ash Content In Blue Wilderness Cat Food. Most Munchkins dont require any intervention for this deformity, though. Lordosis is a condition that causes the spine to dip down and put pressure on the heart, lungs, and trachea, and it can be fatal as the organs begin to grow. For Munchkin cats, they are often especially prone to deformities of the forelimbs. Pectus Excavatum While all Munchkins have limb deformities to some degree, some experience significant difficulties with mobility because of it. Munchkin Cat Health Problems: 10 Common Issues - Excited Cats Male Munchkins typically weigh between 6 and 9 pounds (2.7 and 4.1kg) and are usually larger than female Munchkins, which typically weigh between 4 and 8 pounds (1.8 and 3.6kg). In this game, players take on the role of one of the kitten characters from the books and must use their wits and agility to navigate their way through a series of challenges. The Lordosis is an exaggerated inward spine curve that's sometimes referred to as the 'Swayback.' It normally targets two back points: There's the neck region, and the area closest to the tailbone. They thrive in households with children as well as other pets. Munchkin cats are a medium-sized breed of cat known for their characteristically short legs and long body. Since other indoor cats tend to live 10 to 15 years on average, we can conclude that the Munchkin cats genetic deformity does not necessarily take a toll on its ability to live a full life. Similarity to other breeds is grounds for disqualification. Although there are not many medical conditions that this breed is specifically predisposed to, there are a few that can have a significant impact on the quality of life for a cat. In serious cases, it can cause the heart, lungs, and other organs to compress over time, leading to severe discomfort and early death. Munchkin cats may be of any color and pattern imaginable. . There is no easy way to know what impact this has on welfare. [1] TICA rules for outcrossing allows the use of any domestic cat that does not already belong to a recognized breed. Specifically, this term refers to a defect in which an animals sternum and ribs grow improperly. There are certain health conditions associated with Munchkin cats including arthritis and lordosis but breeders argue that these are not breed-specific. Keep an eye out for anything unusual. . Eyes may be of any color. 8 Common Munchkin Cat Health Problems | Hepper The Cat or You? So, are munchkin cats that bad? Munchkins are prone to a congenital (present from birth) malformation called lordosis, an inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, says Simons. However, it is important to be aware of the signs of this condition, as it can be fatal if left untreated. 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. A British veterinary report in 1944 noted four generations of short-legged cats which were similar to normal cats except for the length of the legs. Because Munchkins can have long or short coats, keep an eye on your Munchkins fur and brush her regularly to prevent mats or tangles. Shorthaired Munchkins have plush, soft coats. The most prevalent issue is called lordosis. In mild cases, IVDD is often successfully managed with pain medications, physical therapy, and steroids, although it can continue to worsen over time. The Munchkin, also known as Sausage Cat, is a breed of cat characterized by its very short legs, which are caused by genetic mutation. Required fields are marked *. Have a cat? [1], In 1983, Sandra Hochenedel, a music teacher in Rayville, Louisiana, found two pregnant cats who had been chased under a truck by a dog. While some people believe the Munchkins short legs prevent this breed from jumping to elevated surfaces, thats not always the caseso dont assume that enticingly shiny necklace on your vanity is out of reach. Can Cats Eat Kale? It can come with a range of severity, from mild to severe. Because they are frequently discarded or abandoned, the munchkin cat population has grown steadily. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. If youre away from the house a lot, consider getting your kitty a furry friend. Here are a few things you should know about Munchkin cats and where they come from. Theres no denying that a munchkin cat is a wonderful addition to any family. Scottish Fold Munchkins are also prone to Polycystic Kidney Disease and Lordosis, which is a spinal condition caused by . This deformity is present at birth and is often diagnosable within days of birth. Since only one parent has the mutation, the kittens can survive and be sold for a high price. Jumping and climbing (especially on cat trees with low entry points). Ultimately, it is up to the individual cat owner to decide whether or not a munchkin cat is right for them. 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. This cat features short legs, straight ears, and a long body. If you plan to adopt a Munchkin kitten, be sure that you work with a responsible breeder or adoption agency. Many of these animals are forced to undergo surgeries that can cause significant health problems, and they are frequently housed in inhumane conditions. However, breeders have found that they can profit from intentionally breeding these cats because many people find them to be cute. What You Need to Know. However, these are not a health concern free cat breed. Many cats are prone to developing hyperthyroidism, and Munchkins are no different. [6][7][8], Short-legged cats have been documented a number of times around the world since the 1940s. If you are not feeding your cat fresh food, be sure to choose a high-quality brand that includes real meat or fish as the first ingredient. Medications to soften the feces, an easily digestible diet, and occasional treatment with antibiotics is standard for some cats with spinal malformations. 3. . 1. It also comes in a long-haired variety, which is shown in a separate Munchkin Longhair category. [34][35] Both conditions are commonly seen in humans with pseudoachondroplasia. The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. The Munchkin cat's short legs lead people who are unfamiliar with the breed to believe that these cats are very slow-moving. A munchkin kitten that reach the age of ten months old will weigh about four pounds and their coats will start to become silvery white with black specks. Can a Dog Take Metronidazole Without Food? Any help would be appreciated, Your email address will not be published. [2] The Munchkin is considered to be the original breed of dwarf cat. To identify a munchkin cat, look for short front legs with slightly taller back legs and a long body. As you might have guessed, this breed is named after the Munchkins from The Wizard of Oz. . Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene are not viable due . A fully grown Munchkin cat might weigh between 4-9 pounds or more and range in height anywhere from about 6"-9" inches tall. Your vet is likely to recommend multiple different approaches to treat your cats osteoarthritis, such as weight management, medication, dietary supplements, physical therapy, and environmental modifications.