Munchkin cats come in three different heights: Standard, supershort, and rug hugger. 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. Is it cruel to keep a munchkin cat? The tail should be of medium length about the same length as the cat's body. This deformity can range from moderate to severe in severity and can lead to problems like decreased exercise tolerance, coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, frequent upper respiratory infections, poor appetite, weight loss or failure to thrive, and tachycardia. Not all Munchkin cats are bred into existence by humans. Some Munchkins have been found to have a skeletal condition called thoracic lordosis, though this condition (affecting the back, chest, heart and lungs). Your vet will examine your cat and consider its symptoms in order to determine the cause of your cats FLUTD and come up with a suitable treatment plan. Check out diva kits Scottish Fold Munchkins she is legit but you may have to wait for your kitty. This in turn puts pressure on the trachea, lungs and heart. It depends on who you ask. Munchkin cats are not a new breed, but they have only recently been accepted by some cat registries. Absolutely! The Munchkin is a small to medium-sized cat (males are slightly larger than females), typically weighing between 5-10 pounds. If youre away from the house a lot, consider getting your kitty a furry friend. This educational content is not veterinary advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. 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. Kittens bearing two copies of the munchkin gene (MM) will not develop in the womb. Because the Munchkin can develop arthritis, Simons says its important to feed them a high-quality diet with supplements to support joint health. Mm munchkin kittens will be able to pass on the munchkin gene to their own offspring. To keep them safe, keep them indoors if they have difficulty climbing stairs or staying up tall. Teacup cats are small cats that have been bred to be so small. Here are a few things you should know about Munchkin cats and where they come from. While this condition can be successfully treated, it is important that it is caught early. Munchkin cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however it is best to offer a high-protein diet. If you want to see a short-legged cat, go and watch a cartoon. The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. As Munchkin cats get along very well with other pets including well-mannered dogs, they will enjoy playtime together when given the opportunity. The educational cat health content on Cats.com is written by or reviewed by our team of veterinary experts to ensure that its in line with the latest evidence-based veterinary information and health guidelines. This cat is not concerned about its unusual appearance because it is confident and outgoing. Breeders also like to point out thatbreeding cats with a genetic mutation that causes short legs is no different than breeding short-legged dogs like Corgis or Dachshunds. Since they're so low to the ground, they are able to make tight turns like a low-slung racecar! Image Credit: https://www.catster.com/cats-101/about-the-munchkin-cat, Image Credit: The short-legged cat has been reported all over the world since antiquity, but it was not widely known until the 1980s. They are affectionate animals that can be kept with both children and other pets. Some breeders believe Lordosis in Munchkin cats results from the defective gene causing the short legs. Dwarf cats, according to the Munchkin cat, are all disproportionally short legs, and they are the original and most well-known of all. 8 Reasons for This Behavior, Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? How to Get Cat Poop Stains Out of the Couch: 4 Stain Remover Options, Why Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet? Video unavailable Lordosis is a dip in the portion of the spinal column located in front of the shoulder blades. This disorder occurs when the thyroid gland begins to overproduce hormones, which can lead to weight loss, hair loss, greasy and unkempt coat, vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, and an increase in eating and drinking. If a person sincerely cared for their animals, he or she would not intentionally deform them in this manner. Munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum, or a concave chest. 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. This then allows the spine to 'collapse slightly' and curve into the body. Surgery is often recommended in moderate to severe cases.. Use the suggested servings on the cat food label as your guide for meal portions, but talking with your vet is best for determining how much food your cat needs. Vincent The Cat Gets Rare Prosthetic Leg Impants, monitoring_string = "44e5bb901650ec61e9e0af1ff1bef5fe". What You Need to Know! Much controversy erupted over the breed when it was recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1997 with critics voicing concerns over potential health and mobility issues. Munchkin cats can live between 12 and 15 years, but if they have health problems, their lifespans shorten. The truth is, they are 100% feline, with magnetic personalities, a strong play drive, and an intense love of cuddling. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. One possible genetic health problem of Munchkin kittens is a condition called lordosis, also known as tight chest. 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. Hyperthyroidism is most common in older cats and is characterized by an increased appetite in combination with weight loss. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks to the bouncy, short strides they take when running, Munchkin cats are often compared to rabbits and ferrets. 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. The typical adult weight range of this cat breed. Lordosis is a spinal condition in which the spinal muscles grow too thin, giving a kitten the appearance of being short. If youre lucky you may find one for 1000 dollars but most likely it will be up to three times more expensive. Learn more. Why Isnt My Puppy Eating and What Can I Do About It? They are also expensive, and both breeders and scammers have taken advantage of that fact. 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. The short legs of the Munchkin cat, for example, have a dominant genetic mutation that contributes to their short stature. The breed's story begins in 1983, when a female cat was rescued in Louisiana. Due to this genetic defect, any Munchkin cat can only be bred with regular cats, so they cannot inherit it from both parents. They called the new breed bambino (the Italian word for "baby"). They require combing twice a week to remove loose hair and to prevent tangles and matting. It's very important to note that breeding one Munchkin cat to another Munchkin cat can lead to serious health problems in the offspring. The Cat or You? 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. 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. . It is a good idea to comb them once a week. The offspring have a 50% chance of being Munchkins. Her rescuer, Sandra Hochenedel, gave one of the male short-legged kittens to a friend named Kay LaFrance. The symptoms listed can have many different causes, such as urinary stones, a urinary infection, or a urethral obstruction. The short-haired variety has a medium-plush coat while the long-haired has a semi-long silky coat. Longhair Munchkin cats may display lynx tips. Hepper is reader-supported. Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. What You Need to Know. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cat's lower back. 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. In fact, breeding cats, whether munchkins or other types, can have a negative impact on pet overpopulation. Cats with this condition, known as mollusks, show signs of disorganization and behavior as if they were other cats. There is no definitive answer to this question. Munchkin kittens take to litter training quickly, especially when you reward them with cat toys and treats. While some cats don't seem to be affected by this downward curve, it can cause spinal pain, leaning to one side, and lead to reduced movement. An average lifespan of these animals is 12 to 14 years. This abnormality can cause pain as a result of osteoarthritis [1]. Do you know where I can get some help with this? [9][12] The Munchkin breed achieved TICA Championship status in May 2003. However, while lymphosarcoma can be treated, like other cancers, it cannot be cured. In the earliest stages of this disease, your Munchkin may begin to experience difficulty with visual acuity at night and in low light situations. Critics claimed that these cats can suffer from back and hip problems similar to those experienced by short-legged dog breeds. 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 little cat craves company from children, dogs, other animals, and strangers. Answered by Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, BVM BVS (Vet), My Dog Ate a Chicken Bone! Can a Dog Take Metronidazole Without Food? Theres no denying that a munchkin cat is a wonderful addition to any family. However, myelography is generally the diagnostic imaging technique of choice. [4][36] Diagnosis of osteoarthritis and the assessment of its severity for a cat may require radiography. Serious Conditions: Lordosis: Lordosis is the curvature of the spine in the lower back. 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. . Every year, millions of animals are killed in U.S. shelters. They tend to have a relatively thick body and round chest. Furthermore, Munchkin cats are estimated to have a lifespan of around 12 . Fluffy Munchkins might need more frequent grooming than short-haired kitties, but in general, this breed has a low-maintenance coat. Mowkin cats are not intended for household use, so if you want a fluffy pet, dont buy one. This can be extremely difficult for an animal, and it can be difficult for them to understand or even know if they are ill. In cats, lymphosarcoma occurs commonly in the intestines, chest, and kidneys. The Munchkin is a highly social cat that enjoys being around people. The legs of the Munchkin may be slightly bowed, although excessive bowing is a disqualification in the show ring. 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. 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. The Munchkins' short legs make them unable to leap and snatch at things. The Munchkin cat's short legs lead people who are unfamiliar with the breed to believe that these cats are very slow-moving. First hitting the market in 1991, Scottish Fold Munchkin cats were developed by crossbreeding a Scottish Fold and a munchkin cat. Breeds with high activity levels will engage more in active play and demand more space and attention. Even if your cat goes into remission, the cancer is likely to return at some point down the road. Owners of Munchkin cats should keep an eye out for overfeeding issues, as do Dachshunds and Corgis. Since only one parent has the mutation, the kittens can survive and be sold for a high price. 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. Much controversy surrounds the breed, as not all breeders take responsibility for preventing painful issues that adversely affect the welfare of the individuals they produce. Since they aren't likely to leap onto tall tabletops and high display shelves, members of the Munchkin cat breed might be ideal for people who love cats but worry about the impact they might have on collectibles. (According to Science), How to Train a Rottweiler to Be a Guard Dog 6 Tips and Tricks, How Much Does a Scottish Fold Cost? 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. How Should I Introduce My Puppy to a Dominant Dog? Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. 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. You might think that Munchkin cats can't jump. Based on the name, you may be able to guess that this condition has to do with your cats chest. You may be familiar with osteoarthritis, as it is a condition that plagues people and animals alike. Lordosis: This condition can occur in any cat, but it is more prevalent in the munchkin. While these cats may look cute, their adorable, stout physique may come at a price. The average lifespan of the breed. While each individual has a unique personality, breed-specific genetics affect qualities like sociability, playfulness, and intelligence. Pectus Excavatum Cost to Treat $150-$2,500 (surgical) Pumpkin Plans Pay Back* $135-$2,250 Osteoarthritis Munchkins are predisposed to osteoarthritis due to their shorter than average limbs. Having only been officially introduced in 1991, the breed is still considered young. 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). This deformity is present at birth and is often diagnosable within days of birth. It involves the spine excessively curving inwards . Munchkin cats tend to be small in size. While breeders might point out that other cats can have some of the same health problems that Munchkin cats tend to inherit, its important to know exactly which health conditions they are susceptible to before bringing one home. For Munchkin cats, they are often especially prone to deformities of the forelimbs. Congenital Heart Defect (Atrial Septal Defect) in Cats. After a year, I requested a refund and Connie will not reply to my request going on 6 months now. But do Munchkin cats have more health issues than other cat breeds? The munchkin gene is an autosomal dominant one. Uremia is defined by high levels of urea and amino acids in the bloodstream. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. If the spinal compression is diffuse or long-term, your cat may not respond to surgery. They are also still prone to developing the same health issues as other cat breeds, so its important to keep a close eye on your Munchkins health to ensure they stay happy and healthy for years to come. Lordosis is an abnormal spinal shape in which the spine slopes or dips down into the chest cavity. Let us know in the comments below! Look for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the abdomen, lack of appetite, and lethargy. Hochenedel gave a short-legged male kitten from one of Blackberry's litters to a friend, Kay LaFrance of Monroe, Louisiana, and she named the kitten Toulouse. Munchkin cats are considered highly sociable, playful, and intelligent, Simons says. A genetic defect in their cartilage allows them to have shortened limbs; this is a distinguishing feature of the Munchkin breed. How much your Munchkin eats will depend on her weight, lifestyle, health, and other factors. Kittens bearing two normal genes (mm) will be normal. [23], In 2014, Lilieput, a Munchkin cat from Napa, California, was named the shortest statured living cat in the world by Guinness World Records. 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. Breeds are grouped by their size and coat type. Responsible Munchkin breeders outcross cats with the short legged gene with cats that do not carry the gene. Pectus Excavatum The term pectus excavatum literally means "hollow breast" in Latin. The Munchkin cat has been the source of some controversy since being officially recognized by the International Cat Association in the 1990s. The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Southern Africa Cat Council are the only registries that currently accept Munchkin cats. There are cats who live for up to 15 years, but some older ones have health issues that shorten their life span. Munchkin Cats: Just As Active As Their Larger Counterparts It may appear surprising that Munchkin cats are just as active and lively as their larger counterparts given their diminutive size. Lordosis, or the common cold, can pose a serious threat to these lovely little animals, so it is imperative that everyone who owns them vaccinates them against this distemper. Keep all these factors in mind before you choose your next feline friend. It was initially registered as a small-leg breed in 1994, but it is now considered a registered breed. Plus they offer carrier services if you cant make it to Orlando to pick up your cutie. [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". The Munchkins series is known for its humor and light-hearted tone, and this game captures that same spirit. 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. If they do not physically express the Munchkin gene, they do not carry it. Spaying and neutering is strongly recommended for these animals. The Munchkin cat is so much more than an adorable little pet: These cats are sweet natured, personable, and playful. Some people have argued that the Munchkin M gene mutation can cause health problems. The breeds dominant personality traits. [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. Your email address will not be published. The most prevalent issue is called lordosis. Long-haired Munchkin cats typically display very soft, silky coats. Leg length affects the height only; the rest of the cat's body is proportioned like that of an average domestic 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. Munchkin cats can and do appear naturally sometimes. Keep your munchkin cats litter box clean to avoid additional health issues, and make sure to feed them a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Due to their unique posture, this breed is prone to a few skeletal malformations as it ages. 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. Inflammation, infection, urinary obstruction, diet, and behavioral issues are all possible causes of lower urinary tract disease. Munchkin cats actually have a relatively long life expectancy. These cats are known for their short legs, and they make great pets for those who are looking for a smaller, more compact cat. They are also known as thieves, as they will steal things off counters or dressers, and play with it until it disappears.. Munchkin cats may be of any color and pattern imaginable. Normal mm kittens will not, as they do not have a copy of the munchkin gene. The munchkin breed arose from a genetic mutation. What You Need to Know! Shorthaired Munchkins have plush, soft coats. Cow-hocked legs are also penalized. In mild cases, IVDD is often successfully managed with pain medications, physical therapy, and steroids, although it can continue to worsen over time. [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. Medications to soften the feces, an easily digestible diet, and occasional treatment with antibiotics is standard for some cats with spinal malformations. If you have a long-haired Munchkin cat, daily grooming is essential. [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). 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.
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