Munchkin Cat History

Munchkin cats are regular domestic cats who have short legs due to a natural genetic mutation. While they had been around for decades, munchkins were only accepted as a breed by The International Cat Association in 2003. They are not yet accepted by the Cat Fanciers' Association. The gene that produces the short legs of munchkin cats is autosomal dominant, meaning it is not sex-linked and is expressed whether inherited from one parent or both parents.

Munchkins can be bred with other munchkins or with regular domestic cats. The offspring of munchkin/domestic cat matings have an equal chance of being munchkins or not. Only the offspring that are munchkins carry the gene.

Munchkin Cat Care Facts

Because munchkins may be bred to a wide variety of domestic cats, an individual cat's personality will depend on its inheritance. All-in-all, they have been described as loving, sociable, and playful by munchkin fans...

Because of shorter legs, the munchkin's coat requires a minimal amount of grooming byt he owner because they are unable to reach certain areas during self-grooming
Even though they have shorter legs, they have no problems running, jumping or climbing
They have unique personalities
Generally they get along with everyone

Munchkin Health Issues

Studies of older munchkins have not found any conditions that stem from their short-legged stature or possible structural problems. However, like other domestic cats they can develop...