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. Furthermore, they are affectionate, sociable, and great pets in their own right. (According to Science), How to Train a Rottweiler to Be a Guard Dog 6 Tips and Tricks, How Much Does a Scottish Fold Cost? Learn more. Video unavailable If your cat has an opening in the skin where the spinal malformation is present, it may be surgically repaired. This condition causes compression of the heart, says Simons. Eyes may be of any color. This cat is not concerned about its unusual appearance because it is confident and outgoing. 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. However, there is always a chance that one or more of these health problems could develop over time: Lordosis Uremia Hyperthyroidism Polycystic Kidney Disease Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) 1. Veterinarians often recommend a mix of wet food (which can help kitties stay hydrated) and dry kibble (to help reduce tartar buildup on their teeth). 1. Many cats are prone to developing hyperthyroidism, and Munchkins are no different. 2. 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. You might also observe your cat jumping up and down from furniture less frequently. Some people have argued that the Munchkin M gene mutation can cause health problems. Would like to adopt a munchkin cat in mass. Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. There is a lot of controversy surrounding the breeding of Munchkin cats since it is intentionally breeding a genetic deformity into the kittens. And in a world where shelters are full of unwanted healthy cats, should we really be breeding deformed felines for profit? These playful, friendly cats have legs about 3 inches shorter than your typical cat. The result is a fluffy and friendly feline that's perfect for nearly every household. You might liken the Munchkin cat to one of the hot dog dog breeds such as the Dachshund. Some Munchkins have been found to have a skeletal condition called thoracic lordosis, though this condition (affecting the back, chest, heart and lungs). One veteran show judge Katherine Crawford resigned in protest, calling the breed an affront to breeders with ethics. Congenital Heart Defect (Atrial Septal Defect) in Cats. 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. Longhair Munchkin cats may display lynx tips. It depends on who you ask. With this very rare health issue, spinal muscles do not grow to the correct size and the spine of the cat begins to sink down inside the body of the cat and death is almost always certain. The mating of two munchkin parents, Mm x Mm, have the chance of producing these offspring: 25% MM- a nonviable kitten, 50% Mm-short-legged, 25% mm- normal. Lordosis causes a shortening of the muscles that hold the spine in place, allowing it to sink down into the chest cavity. They are a cute cat that can be a great pet. There are many different options for treating hyperthyroidism, including oral medication, radioactive iodine therapy, a prescription diet, and surgery. They called the new breed bambino (the Italian word for "baby"). Even if your cat goes into remission, the cancer is likely to return at some point down the road. 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. In most cats, there is no obvious underlying cause for this condition, so Munchkin cats are not necessarily more likely to develop pancreatitis than other cat breeds. 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. IVDD is painful and can lead to permanent spinal damage and even paralysis. They are characterized by their short legs, which is the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation. The Munchkin cat's short legs lead people who are unfamiliar with the breed to believe that these cats are very slow-moving. Breeds with a higher rating in this area tend to be gentle and patient, while lower-rated breeds may feel uncomfortable with children. There is a condition, for example, that is characterized as the curving of a cat's spine in its lower back called lordosis. While each individual has a unique personality, breed-specific genetics affect qualities like sociability, playfulness, and intelligence. The Pros And Cons Of Munchkin Cats - Munchkin Kitten Store They live for chases and catnip mice, and theyll never refuse a warm lap as long as they can get their paws on one. [11] Amidst much controversy, the Munchkin was proposed as a new breed by foundation breeders Laurie Bobskill and Robert Bobskill of Massachusetts and accepted by TICA into its New Breed development program in September 1994. Therefore, the fact that some breeders selected for the munchkin gene was controversial. Less commonly, your vet may even recommend surgery. One possible genetic health problem of Munchkin kittens is a condition called lordosis, also known as tight chest. Munchkin cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however it is best to offer a high-protein diet. The spinal vertebrae form a depression downwards towards the body in the affected Munchkin cats. The Munchkin Cat: A New Breed Of Cat With Short Legs If your cat is showing neurological signs such as dizziness, seizures or paralysis postoperatively, restricted activity combined with physical therapy may be helpful. . Stay on top of cat food recalls here >, Have a dog? Brooke loves all animals and currently shares a home with three dogs, two cats, five fish, and two snails. Do you know where I can get some help with this? Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of your cats thyroid hormone, which results in a metabolic rate thats higher than average. Many Munchkins experience limited mobility in their spine due to a variety of factors, like their elongated back length compared to their height. However, the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) and the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) refuse to recognize the Munchkin. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. At Excited Cats, we regularly consult with licensed veterinarians and other industry experts. 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. Munchkin cats can and do appear naturally sometimes. This leads to a flattened, concave, or narrowed chest. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that results in the breakdown of the tissues in your cats joints, such as the bone and cartilage. [1], Currently, the only registries that fully recognize the breed are TICA and the Southern Africa Cat Council. The Munchkin, also known as Sausage Cat, is a breed of cat characterized by its very short legs, which are caused by genetic mutation. In the earliest stages of this disease, your Munchkin may begin to experience difficulty with visual acuity at night and in low light situations. Sure they may look cute to some. Hepper is reader-supported. 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. Owners of Munchkin cats should keep an eye out for overfeeding issues, as do Dachshunds and Corgis. Mowkin cats are not intended for household use, so if you want a fluffy pet, dont buy one. Long-haired Munchkin cats typically display very soft, silky coats. Many of these animals are forced to undergo surgeries that can cause significant health problems, and they are frequently housed in inhumane conditions. Featured Image: Dasha Parfenova, Shutterstock. 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. The dominant gene of the Munchkin cat is referred to as a lethal gene, which means that if two of the cats mate and pass on the dominant gene, the kittens will not survive. It is important to comb them on a regular basis to remove loose hair and prevent mats and tangles. [23] Some sources state that the shortness of their legs does not interfere with their running and leaping abilities,[24] while others state their ability to jump is limited by their condition. Many people deliberately breed cats like this because they believe they are cute and adorable. Why Isnt My Puppy Eating and What Can I Do About It? But beware of scammers. Cow-hocked legs are also penalized. (2023 Price Guide), Yesterdays News Cat Litter Reviews in 2023: Pros, Cons, & Final Verdict, The latest veterinarians' answers to questions from our database. They may have short or long hair, and they come in every color imaginable. 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. The eyes should be walnut shaped and should be wide enough apart to provide an open, alert expression. Saying they can jump or run like a normal cat would be false, she says. What You Need to Know! Some registries, such as the Fdration Internationale Fdline, have yet to recognize the breed. 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. This is especially important given that short-legged cats such as Munchkins and Munchkin mixes are prone to spinal issues such as lordosis. Have a cat? Spinal and Vertebral Birth Defects in Cats | PetMD Let me know where you find your fur ever friend or if you get one from Connie. Responsible breeders do their best to ensure that kittens are healthy and comfortable in their bodies. While all Munchkins have limb deformities to some degree, some experience significant difficulties with mobility because of it. Kittens bearing two normal genes (mm) will be normal. [4], 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]. 8 Reasons for This Behavior. This condition is typically easily managed with medication and routine lab work, but in some cases, it will continue to worsen over time, even with appropriate treatment. 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. In the mildest cases, lordosis can cause shortness of breath. 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. However, it certainly doesnt make them healthier and provides them with no specific advantages. The first known records of a short-legged cat date back to 1944. Munchkins are prone to a congenital (present from birth) malformation called lordosis, an inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, says Simons. This condition is rare in cats, but cats with elongated and malformed spines, like Munchkins, can be at a higher risk. This can lead to damage and pain from the nerves of the spinal cord being pressed on. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. This can be extremely difficult for an animal, and it can be difficult for them to understand or even know if they are ill. How Should I Introduce My Puppy to a Dominant Dog? Congenital spinal and vertebral malformations are most often genetically inherited (as opposed to adverse conditions during fetal development). [31][32], However, there appear to be two conditions with increased incidence in the Munchkin breed: lordosis (excessive curvature of the spine)[33] and pectus excavatum (hollowed chest). It is a short-legged breed of cat similar to dachshunds. Simons recommends that all cats, Munchkins included, be brushed weekly. The Munchkins' short legs make them unable to leap and snatch at things. The serious problem of pet overpopulation can be avoided if the population of cats is not artificially raised through the breeding process of cats, not just munchkins. Prentis told The Sun: Why would you want to breed a cat that effectively doesnt have any legs? Animals with this condition have a relatively good prognosis as long as they are diagnosed young; the best time to perform surgery is between 8 and 12 weeks of age. They have an average lifespan of 12-15 years . They tend to have a relatively thick body and round chest. The Osbornes bred sphynx cats, carrying the recessive hairless gene, with munchkin cats that carried the dominant short-legged gene. However, these are not a health concern free cat breed. These cute cats have full-grown bodies with petite legs, making them an adorable feline. Keep an eye out for any areas they seem to be missing or unable to reach. Because Munchkin cats are often so active, weight maintenance is typically not an issue. Munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum, or a concave chest. Ultimately, it is up to the individual cat owner to decide whether or not a munchkin cat is right for them. In severe cases, pectus excavatum can be repaired via surgical intervention. The tail should be of medium length about the same length as the cat's body. Her rescuer, Sandra Hochenedel, gave one of the male short-legged kittens to a friend named Kay LaFrance. There is no treatment for osteoarthritis, but it can typically be managed to a degree with treatment modalities like pain medications, physical therapy, and low-impact exercise. Lordosis is the most common health issues that these cats might face. It should taper and have a rounded end. Lott says Munchkins are a smart, trainable breed. Theres no denying that a munchkin cat is a wonderful addition to any family. Their short legs are a result of an inherited trait. Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene are not viable due . It is common for munkey cats to be born with short legs and other genetic flaws that can lead to health problems. In spite of their physical limitations, however, you may be surprised to learn that, unlike short dog breeds, Munchkin cats actually have a relatively long life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. 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. Because the Munchkin can develop arthritis, Simons says its important to feed them a high-quality diet with supplements to support joint health. Munchkin cats are not a new breed, but they have only recently been accepted by some cat registries. Answered by Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, BVM BVS (Vet), My Dog Ate a Chicken Bone! How are mollusks manufactured? Learn more. The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Southern Africa Cat Council are the only registries that currently accept Munchkin cats. The back legs may be of the same length as the front legs, although longer back legs and shorter front legs are acceptable. Below, we will go over some of the most common health problems Munchkin cats develop. The Munchkin is a small to medium-sized cat (males are slightly larger than females), typically weighing between 5-10 pounds. "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. In fact, breeding cats, whether munchkins or other types, can have a negative impact on pet overpopulation. The Munchkin cat is a small to medium-sized breed that matures to an average weight of 5 to 9 pounds. Here are seven facts you might not have known about these adorable, stubby-limbed pets. The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. Munchkin cats actually have a relatively long life expectancy. Lordosis is a genetic disorder that affects other organisms, but it has no specific symptoms to the Munchkins. [13] There is controversy among breeders of pedigree cats as to what genetic mutations are abnormal and potentially disadvantageous to the cat. In severe cases of lordosis, a highly specialized and risky surgery can be performed to correct the spinal deformity or to increase space within the chest. Responsible Munchkin breeders outcross cats with the short legged gene with cats that do not carry the gene. [17], In order to protect the animals welfare, several countries and territories have prohibited breeding with Munchkins, including the Netherlands (2014),[18][19] Scotland,[20] and Victoria (Australia). Non-standard Munchkins are not allowed to be shown. Check on Facebook there are also good reputable breeders on line. Munchkin cats are a medium-sized breed of cat known for their characteristically short legs and long body. Mm munchkin kittens will be able to pass on the munchkin gene to their own offspring. Munchkin Cat Breed: Size, Appearance & Personality 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.
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