Munchkin cats love to collect small, shiny objects. Brooke stays active with yoga and obtained her 200-hour yoga teacher certification in 2020, she also loves spending her free time researching and writing. Saying they can jump or run like a normal cat would be false, she says. Your cat will need to revisit your veterinarian every four to six months for neurological examinations and to monitor progression of clinical signs. Would like to adopt a munchkin cat in mass. Because of its physical features, it is a breed of cat that is particularly suited to fast and agile living conditions. These kitties like just about everyone they meet and will happily hop into a newcomer's lap. It's very important to note that breeding one Munchkin cat to another Munchkin cat can lead to serious health problems in the offspring. Due to their unique posture, this breed is prone to a few skeletal malformations as it ages. Munchkin cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however it is best to offer a high-protein diet. The Cat Fanciers Association, which does not recognize the Munchkin, considers the Bambino experimental and discourages the breed. Its recommended that this surgery is performed when a kitten is between 812 weeks of age, so its important to recognize the symptoms early and seek veterinary evaluation as soon as possible. Lordosis is a genetic disorder that affects other organisms, but it has no specific symptoms to the Munchkins. In some cases, management of long term symptoms will be necessary. But do Munchkin cats have more health issues than other cat breeds? [5] The breed is also not recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association. The reason: controversy over whether the mutation causing the breeds short legs poses health risks. 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). Many of these animals are forced to undergo surgeries that can cause significant health problems, and they are frequently housed in inhumane conditions. A mogginer is typically a healthy breed with no diseases or conditions. 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. The eyes should be walnut shaped and should be wide enough apart to provide an open, alert expression. When your cat is unable to properly expel its urine, it can lead to a buildup of toxins in their bodies. This condition often occurs in Munchkins, and short spinal muscles characterize it due to the short legs and long bodies. The short legs of the Munchkin cat come from a dominant genetic mutation. If the malformations lead to secondary spinal cord compression and trauma, the affected cat will display ataxia and paresis. The Average lifespan for Munchkin is 12-15 years. [4], The Munchkin has similar characteristics to normal domestic cats, due to their frequent use as outcrosses. [5] Breeding of Munchkin cats is prohibited by law in several countries due to these genetic health concerns. Despite their short legs, these creatures make a smooth transition from room to room. 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. Lott says the average price for a Munchkin cat is typically $1,000$1,500. Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye condition that progresses throughout a cats life, eventually leading to blindness. There are certain health conditions associated with Munchkin cats including arthritis and lordosis but breeders argue that these are not breed-specific. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that results in the breakdown of the tissues in your cats joints, such as the bone and cartilage. If the vet tells you that the cat has Lordosis towards the neck region, he or she will be talking about Cervical Lordosis. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cat's lower back. Any help would be appreciated, Your email address will not be published. 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. 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. 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. Theyre adorable, friendly, andas long as you dont mind the occasional stolen earring or baublea joy to live with. Do not free-feed a Munchkin cat, as this can lead to obesity. Muckenkin cats are at risk for spinal deformities, lordosis, and scoliosis. This kitten was named Toulouse, and was eventually bred back to Blackberry. 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. This can lead to urinary blockages, which are a medical emergency that must be dealt with immediately to prevent bladder rupture, sepsis, and death. Can I be notified when one comes available? The munchkin gene is autosomal dominant. . It should taper and have a rounded end. It is a small to medium-sized cat with a moderate body type and medium-plush coat. 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. Having only been officially introduced in 1991, the breed is still considered young. Munchkin kittens, however, are vulnerable to lordosis, a rare spinal condition in which the spinal muscles grow short, allowing the spine to sink down into the body. If the spinal compression is diffuse or long-term, your cat may not respond to surgery. Munchkin kittens take to litter training quickly, especially when you reward them with cat toys and treats. This results in shortened and often deformed limbs. Munchkin cats are known for their short legs and playful personalities. There is a lot of controversy surrounding the breeding of Munchkin cats since it is intentionally breeding a genetic deformity into the kittens. The prognosis is highly variable based on how severe the cancer is, but early treatment usually provides the best prognosis. [1][10], The Munchkin comes in all coat colors and patterns. Mm munchkin kittens will be able to pass on the munchkin gene to their own offspring. The Munchkin cats with long legs do not carry the heterozygous gene (a cell containing two different alleles). Uremia is defined by high levels of urea and amino acids in the bloodstream. It is a short-legged breed of cat similar to dachshunds. orally, intravenously, or subcutaneously. Responsible breeders do their best to ensure that kittens are healthy and comfortable in their bodies. 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 Ragdolls are a relatively new breed of cat, and as such, they may not have any of these health problems. 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. That, she says, makes this breed predisposed to osteoarthritis and mobility issues. In cats, lymphosarcoma occurs commonly in the intestines, chest, and kidneys. In this article, we will discuss Munchkin cats in more detail, the controversy regarding these cats, and health problems they commonly develop. Keep your kitty's claws clipped to prevent damage to your belongings, and consider teaching your kitten to allow toothbrushing from a young age. Lordosis: This condition can occur in any cat, but it is more prevalent in the munchkin. This type of behavior is not acceptable in any way from anyone who has the best interests of animals at heart. Munchkins are prone to a congenital (present from birth) malformation called lordosis, an inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, says Simons. Feet should be pointed straightforward, not pronated inward or outward. A Munchkin cat's ears should be proportionate to the head, with broader bases and slightly rounded tips. Miniature examples of the Munchkin breed can cost between $500 and $1500, but exhibition quality examples can cost up to $2000. 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. 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. Can Cats Eat Kale? [2] There were early speculations that the Munchkin would develop spinal problems commonly seen in short-legged dog breeds; however, in 1995 several breeders had their oldest Munchkins X-rayed and examined for signs of joint or bone problems and found none. 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. 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). Breeds with higher grooming scores require more maintenance like brushing and bathing, while lower-scored breeds are virtually maintenance-free. [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. These playful, friendly cats have legs about 3 inches shorter than your typical cat. 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. Not only is their lifespan shortened, but they may also suffer from chronic health problems. Here are some of the most common issues that occur in Munchkin cats. Theyre not overly vocal, and while they arent anxious, they do enjoy company. Lordosis is a disease caused by the spines dip in and pressure on the heart, lungs, and trachea, and it can be fatal as the organs expand. Some Munchkins have been found to have a skeletal condition called thoracic lordosis, though this condition (affecting the back, chest, heart and lungs). Punnett squares, in which the M represents the dominant munchkin gene and the m represents the recessive normal gene, may be used to illustrate the chances of a particular mating resulting in a short-legged cat. These cute cats have full-grown bodies with petite legs, making them an adorable feline. Does it hurt the cats? Theres no denying that a munchkin cat is a wonderful addition to any family. [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. talk to a vet online for advice >. Answered by Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, BVM BVS (Vet), My Dog Ate a Chicken Bone! Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. As well as shorter limbs, munchkin cats are more prone to lordosis and pectus excavatum than other cats. . Breeds that score higher in this area are able to spend hours alone, while less-independent breeds require plenty of attention. The breed's story begins in 1983, when a female cat was rescued in Louisiana. This gene is referred to as a lethal gene because if two Munchkin cats mate and both pass on the dominant gene, the kittens will not survive. including osteoarthritis caused by lordosis, or an inward curvature of the spine, and pectus excavatum, or "funnel chest". 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. The typical adult weight range of this cat breed. Despite their short legs, they are extremely vulnerable to health problems. Brooke loves all animals and currently shares a home with three dogs, two cats, five fish, and two snails. Munchkin cats have limited mobility compared to other breeds. Hi Michael, A higher rating in this area indicates a breed prone to plenty of meowing and other vocalizations, while less-vocal breeds are happy to stay quiet. Required fields are marked *. Munchkin cats will shed, particularly if they have a longer coat. What You Need to Know. Stay on top of cat food recalls here >, Have a dog? This trait is so prevalent that the breed has been nicknamed "The magpie of the cat world!". A mutation causes the cats legs to be short and stubby, which is the cats most recognizable feature. Let us know in the comments below! This then allows the spine to 'collapse slightly' and curve into the body. It depends on who you ask. Inflammation, infection, urinary obstruction, diet, and behavioral issues are all possible causes of lower urinary tract disease. As you might have guessed, this breed is named after the Munchkins from The Wizard of Oz. Their short legs result from an autosomal dominant gene. Concerns have been raised over the health impact of short legs on a spine of normal length which may lead to lordosis, a downward dip of the spine, munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum (concave chest) which causes the breastbone to sink in, and arthritis. In severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary to maintain quality of life. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cats lower back. This can be extremely difficult for an animal, and it can be difficult for them to understand or even know if they are ill. Controversial Munchkin cats may be trendyto some people who find them cute, but is it cruel to breed cats with genetic deformities intentionally? 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]. If left untreated, lymphoma will inevitably lead to death. [14] Katie Lisnik, director of cat protection and policy at the Humane Society of the United States, has said "Breeding animals for exaggerated physical characteristics, particularly when it compromises overall health, is irresponsible". This can lead to damage and pain from the nerves of the spinal cord being pressed on. Check on Facebook there are also good reputable breeders on line. Symptoms include loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, and depression. [34][35] Both conditions are commonly seen in humans with pseudoachondroplasia. So, are munchkin cats that bad? It is a good idea to comb them once a week. Visible signs of a distorted spinal column are lordosis (curvature of the spine at the lower back) and kyphosis (a posterior curvature of the spine). No special ear care is required for Munchkin cats, but if you notice buildup, redness, or odor, talk to your veterinarian. If they do not physically express the Munchkin gene, they do not carry it. 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. While all Munchkins have limb deformities to some degree, some experience significant difficulties with mobility because of it. These cats must be bred in a cruel and irresponsible manner. Not all Munchkin cats are bred into existence by humans. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Breeds with high activity levels will engage more in active play and demand more space and attention. Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene are not viable due . You might also observe your cat jumping up and down from furniture less frequently. Their offspring formed the foundation for the Munchkin cat breed as we know it today. Heres What To Do, Answered by Dr. Olivia Speight, BVSc MRCVS (Vet). Simons recommends that all cats, Munchkins included, be brushed weekly. The first cases of short-legged cats were documented in Russia and the United States during the 1950s and 1970s. 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. This can also increase the likelihood of other conditionslike osteoarthritisdeveloping. Teacup cats are small cats that have been bred to be so small. 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. If your cat has an opening in the skin where the spinal malformation is present, it may be surgically repaired. Keep an eye out for anything unusual. She describes the friendly breed as attention-seeking and dog-like, adding, They may follow you around the house a lot. She recommends that pet parents with Munchkins have other animals at home that can keep their cat company 24/7. Do Munchkin Cats Have More Health Problems Than Other Cats? People breeding cats for their looks and charm are common reasons for doing so. There are cats who live for up to 15 years, but some older ones have health issues that shorten their life span. Can a Dog Take Metronidazole Without Food? They tend to have a relatively thick body and round chest. Their short legs are a result of an inherited trait. Since they're so low to the ground, they are able to make tight turns like a low-slung racecar! 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! The little cat craves company from children, dogs, other animals, and strangers. Because they are sociable and loving, they are excellent pets for families. There is a condition, for example, that is characterized as the curving of a cat's spine in its lower back called lordosis. Its worth noting that while some official cat breed organizations, including The International Cat Association (TICA), recognize the Munchkin as an official breed, others such as the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) dont. Lordosis is a spinal condition in which the spinal muscles grow too thin, giving a kitten the appearance of being short. These cute cats are instantly lovable because of their short legs, long bodies, and loving personalities. Munchkin cats are a relatively new breed of cat, having only been around since the 1980s. Michael & Christine, Diva Kits did scam me out of a lot of money. Visible signs of a distorted spinal column are lordosis (curvature of the spine at the lower back) and kyphosis (a posterior curvature of the spine). Specifically, this term refers to a defect in which an animals sternum and ribs grow improperly. Less-intelligent breeds are less trainable but often laid-back and easygoing. 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. 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. "Vets warn trend for sausage cats is cruel", "Genetic Welfare Problems of Companion Animals, Munchkin - Limb Deformity", "Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds: Munchkin Cat", "Breed Comparisons - Munchkin | World Cat Congress", "People Are Breeding Cats To Have Too-Short Legs", "Fokken met katten met schadelijke kenmerken of erfelijke ziektes - Nieuwsbericht - NVWA", "Code of Practice for the Breeding of Animals with Heritable Defects that Cause Disease - Agriculture", Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats in the ACT, "Tiny Napa cat stands tall in new Guinness record book", "New cat breed, Munchkin, stands on its stubby legs", "Munchkin: Fur is flying over this rare cat breed", "All You Need to Know About Munchkin Cats", "Skookum Cat Breed Information and Pictures", "Minskin Cat Breed Information and Pictures", "Bambino Cat Breed Information and Pictures", "Lambkin Cat Breed Information and Pictures", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Munchkin_cat&oldid=1151202217, Cat breeds originating in the United States, Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 22 April 2023, at 15:05. [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". He has a long, skinny body, walnut-shaped eyes, and triangular ears. The Munchkin cat breed is relatively new, although individual cats with shorter than average legs have been noted and even encouraged throughout history. Munchkin cats are at higher risk of this disorder developing than many other cat breeds due to their abnormal limb shape related to dwarfism. The short legs of the Munchkin cat, for example, have a dominant genetic mutation that contributes to their short stature. 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. Complete index of all the wonderful cat breeds and mixes, Deciding what you can and cannot feed your furry friend is a crucial decision, We love our cats, and therefore we want to get them the best gear, Understanding cat behavior can set you both up for a happy, productive relationship, Complete index of all the wonderful dog breeds and mixes, Deciding what you can and cannot feed your four legged friend is a crucial decision, We love our dogs, and therefore we want to get them the best gear, Training your dog can set you both up for a happy, productive relationship, The most complete list of dog food recalls, The most complete list of cat food recalls. The cost of a reputable kitten from a reputable breeder can range from $700 to $1,100, depending on a variety of factors. There are many different options for treating hyperthyroidism, including oral medication, radioactive iodine therapy, a prescription diet, and surgery. Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. [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". However, myelography is generally the diagnostic imaging technique of choice. A munchkin cat is a short-legged cat breed. Pectus Excavatum The term pectus excavatum literally means "hollow breast" in Latin. The Munchkin cat is a fun-loving cat who enjoys interacting with kids, other cats, and even dogs. 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. The munchkin cat is caused by a naturally occurring genetic mutation. Although not a disorder within itself, decreased mobility impacts a large number of Munchkin cats. Kittens are expensive, so heres an idea on how much they cost on average. Feline urinary tract disease, also called FLUTD, is a serious condition that can impact cats of any breed. We do our best to help you better understand your cats, but the information on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Leave the cat alone.. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Cats.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. 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.

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