Introducing the Munchkin Cat Breed

They say that good things come in small packages, and the Munchkin Cat is no exception! These lovable little guys came about due to a spontaneous genetic mutation that resulted in a cat with disproportionately short legs. Although shorter than those of a regular-sized cat, the Munchkin's legs do not hamper it's mobility or ability to function and survive. Munchkins are very kitten-like, outgoing and love to be handled. Munchkin cats can have both short or long coats and come in a variety of colors and patterns.  The Munchkin Cat is recognized as a new breed by the International Cat Association (TICA). AACE and Catz-NZ. It is currently accepted by UFO under NBC (new breed or color) status.

Munchkin Cat and Kitten Central is pleased to offer this insightful Munchkin Cat Facts and Information article to assist you in learning about the Munchkin cat breed and deciding if a Munchkin cat or kitten is the right choice for your family. Enjoy!

Munchkin Cat History

One day while out enjoying some fresh air, Sandra Hochenedel of Louisiana discovered a very unique looking cat living under a trailer. This black cat had unusually short legs. Sandra called her Blackberry and gave her a home, soon to discover that Blackberry was about to have a litter of kittens. When the kittens were born, about half of the kittens took after their mother, having short little legs. From these humble beginnings, one of Blackberry's kittens, a male named Toulouse, went on to greatness, becoming the foundation tomcat for a new breed of cat; the adorable short-legged cat breed we call the Munchkin.

The rise of the Munchkin cat breed into popularity among cat fanciers has not been without tribulation; many believe that this breed's short-legged trait (also known as Achondroplasia or Dwarfism) is a physical disability, hindering the cat's normal abilities, such as jumping and running. As a result, some countries have passed laws against the intentional breeding of cats for this trait.

Munchkin cat breeders and fanciers strongly disagree, and maintain that despite the Munchkin's short stature, it is very much a cat's cat in every sense of the word. They assert that the Munchkin's short legs do not hinder it's physical abilities. Additionally, Munchkin proponents state that the Munchkin's small size makes it particularly suitable to living in small spaces - the perfect feline companion for those living in city apartments.

While the breed has not been recognized in the United States by the Cat Fancier's Association (CFA), The International Cat Association (TICA) has given the breed credence by recognizing it as a purebreed cat breed.

Despite some controversy, the Munchkin is an adorable cat breed that has found popularity among cat lovers world wide, and continues to win new fans every day. 

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Munchkin Cat Grooming

The extent of grooming duties required for a Munchkin cat or kitten depend largely upon the cat's coat type. Munchkin cats come in many coat types, from long haired to short haired. Cats with longer hair require more frequent brushing than do short haired cats, but all cats should be brushed regularly to keep shedding and dander to a minimum. This can help lessen your vacuuming duties, as well as helps keep your cat from developing hairballs, a common malady in cats that is a result of loose hair that the cat swallows while grooming itself.

Your Munchkin cat will require the occasional bath, as well as claw trimming every 3 weeks or so. Cat grooming sessions are an excellent way to bond and show affection for your cat, and almost all cats welcome this activity with enthusiasm.

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Munchkin Cat Health

The Munchkin cat is healthy and hearty, with few health problems. Although the short-legged trait (acondroplasia) is considered by some to be a genetic disorder, Munchkin breeders and fanciers assert that this trait does not affect the breed's physical prowess or overall health and longevity.

As with any popular purebred cat breed, you'll find highly responsible breeders, as well as those of questionable intent. Always choose your breeder wisely! You want Munchkin breeder that is very knowledgeable about the breed, health issues that can be prevalent, cat ownership and more, and who is genuinely interested in placing her Munchkin kittens in loving, forever homes. A responsible breeder will breed the best to the best; pairing beautiful, healthy cats with excellent personalities together, in an effort to continually improve on the kittens she produces.

It's also very important to ensure that your breeder has tested the cats in her breeding program for common diseases that can affect all cats, including FeLV, FIV and Feline Distemper. A reputable breeder will stand behind the health of her kittens, and offer you a reasonable guaranteed against health problems in her kittens.

At Cats and Kittens Central, we advocate keeping cats indoors at all times, and with the Munchkin cat, this is especially important, since it's small stature and gentle nature makes this breed even more of a target for coyotes and other predators, as well as a multitude of other outdoor hazards.

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Quick Munchkin Cat Facts

Country of Origin: USA - Louisiana
Munchkin Cat Size:  
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Good With Kids: Yes
Good With Other Animals: Yes  
Most Common Misspellings: Munckin, Munshkin
Alternate Names: Short Legged Cat, Dwarf Cat, Miniature Cat

Munchkin Cat FAQ

Do Munchkin Cats Shed ?

Yes, Munchkin cats do shed, and they need regular brushing to keep their thick, soft coat shiny and free of dander and dead hairs. While the Munchkin cat does shed fairly frequently, this weekly brushing will help keep it under control and prevent the majority of light buff hairs from transferring to all of your dark clothing.

Are Munchkin Cats Hypoallergenic (Allergy Free)?

No, but there really is no true "hypoallergenic" cat breed, despite what some might say. There are cat breeds that have less of a tendency to cause allergic reactions in those allergic to feline dander, but there are no guarantees. Depending on the severity of your cat allergy, you may be able to live with a Munchkin cat, provided that you bathe your cat frequently to reduce dander, and use a really good vacuum cleaner with a hepa filter every few days to ensure that cat hair and dander is kept to a minimum. It's also a good idea to keep kitty out of the bedroom.

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Munchkin Cat Breed Pictures

A picture is worth a thousand words, and our growing gallery of Munchkin cat pictures and kitten photos is well worth a peek! We showcase photos of Munchkin cats and kittens from reputable Munchkin breeders who are members of Cats and Kittens Central, as well as images sent to us by our visitors. Feel free to purr-uze our Munchkin pictures gallery by clicking here!

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Munchkin Cat Appearance

If the residents of OZ had matching cats, the Munchkin would be it. These adorable felines appear very much like miniature versions of normal sized cats. Munchkins come in a wide array of colors, patterns and coat lengths - just as their domestic cat cousins do. You'll find Calico, Tuxedo, Tabby, Solid and Patched Munchkins in every color in the rainbow. There are short-coated Munchkins and Longhair Munchkins. Their short legs and stature give them an usual gait, appearing to move more like a Ferret than a cat.

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Munchkin Cat Personality Temperament

If you're looking for a cat that seems to never grow up, the Munchkin is for you! Adding to the kitten-like appearance of the short-legged Munchkin cat, the personality of these adorable little guys is also like a kitten. Munchkins are funny, affectionate and playful, usually retaining this quality well into adulthood. The Munchkin is "sweetness personified"; a cat that is as much a companion as any dog - or human for that matter.

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Is the Munchkin Cat or Kitten the Right Choice for You?

If you want a really cute cat that has a sweet personality and kitten-like disposition, the Munchkin makes a wonderful choice. Munchkins thrive on attention and affection, and are best suited to owners who have the time to spend with their feline friend. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large home, the Munchkin is well suited to your space. Munchkins are a good choice for well-behaved children, and also get along with dogs, provided the dog is cat-friendly, and not with a high prey-drive.

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Munchkin Cat Breeders & Munchkin Cats Kittens For Sale

Responsible Munchkin cat breeders offer healthy, home-raised Munchkin kittens for sale to approved buyers. If you have your heart set on a purebred Munchkin kitten, a responsible breeder is usually the best source. Reputable Munchkin catteries focus on producing kittens that are healthy and free from common cat diseases and hereditary (congenital) health problems that can affect the Munchkin cat breed. In addition, responsible Munchkin breeders try their best to produce kittens that are as beautiful to behold as they are affectionate and sound in personality and temperament.

Munchkin Cat Kitten Prices

Munchkin cat prices vary according the the breeder, and the kitten you are considering. Usually pet quality Munchkin kittens cost between $500 and $1000 to purchase, while show quality Munchkin kittens can be considerably more expensive. Keep in mind that the price involved in purchasing a kitten from a reputable breeder generally includes health screening, vaccinations, de-worming, early socialization (so the kitten grows up to be of sound temperament and affectionate nature), ongoing advice and support - and - most importantly - a reasonable health guarantee.

Munchkin Cats and Kittens Central is proud to showcase a number of reputable Munchkin cat breeders on our Munchkin cat breeders directory. To view information, contact details and photos of available Munchkin kittens for sale, please click here to view our Munchkin cattery list.

Munchkin Rescue Organizations

Munchkin cat rescue organizations specialize in placing purebred Munchkin cats and kittens, as well as mixed Munchkin cats and kittens with loving owners. Munchkin cats and kittens can end up in shelters and rescues for a variety of reasons, and there are many purrfectly nice Munchkin or Munchkin mix cats and kittens waiting to be adopted into loving homes.

Munchkin Cats and Kittens Central is pleased to provide a directory of Munchkin cat rescues to help you locate one near you. To view information, contact details and photos of available Munchkin cats and kittens, please click here to view our Munchkin cat rescue guide.

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Munchkin Cat Clubs

Munchkin cat breed clubs can be an excellent resource for learning more about the Munchkin cat breed, finding a reputable Munchkin cat breeder, locating Munchkin rescues, viewing Munchkin pictures and more. You'll often find a schedule for cat shows, in case you want to attend a show near you, and meet Munchkin breeders and their cats in person.

Munchkin Cats and Kittens Central is pleased to provide a directory of Munchkin cat clubs to help you locate one near you. Please click here to view our Munchkin cat clubs guide.

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1000 Cat Names
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Munchkin Cat Kitten Names

Finding a suitable name for your new Munchkin cat or kitten can be a daunting task and not something to be taken lightly. Your Munchkin will be saddled with the name you give it for many years to come, so it's a good idea to give plenty of thought and consideration to the name you choose. 

If you would like some unique Munchkin cat kitten names suggestions to help you get started, our Cat Names guide is an excellent resource. Click here to view our Munchkin cat names guide.

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