What is a munchkin cat? If you've seen a cat that resembles a dachshund, long in body but with short legs, then there's a good chance that you've gotten a glimpse of one of the munchkin cat breeds!
Dating back to the early 20th century, munchkin cats have popped up around the globe and are recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) and the South African Cat Council (SACC). However, munchkin cat breeds aren't recognized by some other cat clubs, including the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) USA or Europe, the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA), the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) or the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF).
Let's take a look at some of the defining features and personality traits for munchkin cats.
What Is a Munchkin Cat?
Although their name suggests otherwise, munchkin cats are not perpetually kitten-like. They retain their trademark short legs, but as they grow into adulthood, munchkins do develop adult-sized bodies, including a long spine and tail. And if the dachshund comparison sounds familiar, the breed name may also ring a bell: It's named after the munchkin characters in L. Frank Baum's book, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," by Solveig Pflueger, a member of TICA.
This genetic mutation isn't new, but munchkin cats were rare; they weren't recognized as a breed until the early 1990s. Today's munchkin cats descend from cats with diminutive legs discovered by Sandra Hockenedel in Louisiana in the 1980s.
Features
The distinct feature of a munchkin cat is their short legs, which are due to a spontaneous genetic mutation, meaning that it naturally occurred. "Their short legs are caused by an autosomal dominant gene, which causes the long bones in a cat's legs to develop at a shorter length," explains TICA. This inherited genetic trait of dwarfism, presenting as short legs, is passed on to the offspring of munchkin cats. The risks associated with the genetic mutation prohibit munchkin cats from procreating with one another, and so they reproduce with domestic non-breed specific cats, specifies TICA in their munchkin breed standards.
What is a munchkin cat paired with? Often, they're bred with the domestic shorthair or longhair, resulting in "lustrous," "plush" and "silky" coats and "medium" features. Generally, they're average in weight — around 10 pounds or 4-4.5 kilograms, says My Family Vets — and length, about 18 inches (45.72 cm) long. Their markings present in any pattern or color, and their eyes may also be any color.
Tasty Tips
Personality
Don't be fooled by their average stats or short legs: Munchkin cats move swiftly! Their pattern of movement is often compared to that of a ferret because of their propensity to maneuver side to side. Munchkin cats can also jump onto furniture, albeit not as high as their taller counterparts; if you bring a munchkin into your home, you still have to kitty-proof your home!
Quick and lively, the munchkin cat always is up for playing and cuddling. They're also very intelligent and require mental stimulation, which they can get from enrichment activities such as food puzzles, mechanical toys and even electronics with apps geared specifically for cats!
Munchkin cats do have one quirky trait that sets them apart from most other cat breeds: They're hoarders, as the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University says in TuftsNow, with a particular penchant for "jewelry and small shiny objects." Tufts suggests that hoarding in animals provides "short-lived relief from stress," so provide your munchkin cat with plenty of baubles from which to choose for their stash, or else you may find your own trinkets gone missing.
Caring for Munchkin Cat Breeds
A munchkin cat needs the same basic care as all other cats: access to fresh water at all times, nutritious cat food, routine grooming, regular veterinarian checkups and engagement with their humans.
Because of their genetic mutation, munchkin cats may be predisposed to medical issues, says Dr. Sarah Wooten: "Dwarfed cats often have joint problems and abnormally curved spines that can predispose them to herniated spinal discs." Common joint and spinal issues may include arthritis, osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease (DJD), says the Cornell Feline Health Center. Speak with your vet to develop a health plan for your little munchkin.
With an average life span of 12 to 15 years and a spirited personality, munchkin cat breeds liven up their pet parents' homes!
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Ocean Fish Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Poached Salmon & Spinach Medley Cat Food
Delicious poached salmon paired with tender spinach in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Roasted Vegetable & Chicken Medley cat food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Supports kitten growth, digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
null Hill's Science Diet Kitten with Salmon
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced salmon to help build immunity and a healthy digestive system
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken & Rice Medley Cat Food
Delicious roasted chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley
Delicious tender chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce with precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Liver Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced turkey & liver to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Fewer calories for less active cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Beef Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of gourmet savory beef to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Chicken Recipe
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system.ain, eye & immune system development
Related articles
My Cat Ate Marijuana: Is It Toxic for Them?
If your cat ate marijuana, learn what steps you should take. Learn how weed & THC can affect cats, what the signs are, and when you should be concerned.
Do Cats Like Music?
Have you ever wondered if cat's like music? And if so, what kind? Check out this article that digs into the science behind your cat's taste in music.
Cat Diabetes: Symptoms & Treatment
Learn how to recognize the signs of cat diabetes, how it can affect her health, and how treatments like insulin injections can help manage this disease.
Feeding Fish to Your Cat: A Healthy Option
Discover whether or not feeding fish to your cat has any real benefits. Learn how fish can be properly included into your cat's diet.
Cat Ear Emotions: How Cat Ears Move With Their Mood
Learn how your cat's ear language and movements can show you their underlying emotions, including what a variety of different positions mean.
Important Information on FLUTD & Urinary Tract Infections in Cats
If your cat if struggling to use the litter box it might be a symptom of a larger issue - urinary tract disease. Learn the signs and treatment options now.
When Are Cats Full-Grown?
Learn key signs to tell if your kitten is reaching cat adulthood, including life stage specifics and special considerations for gender, breed & more
Are Cats Good With Kids?
Are cats good with kids? Happily, the answer is yes! Use these tips to find the best cat for your family.
Cat Leukemia: Symptoms, Testing and Prevention
Learn important information about cat leukemia, including how it spreads, common symptoms, testing & diagnosis info, treatments and prevention options.
Why Do Cats Stick Their Tongue Out?
They look super cute when doing it, but why do cats stick their tongue out? Read on to find out what it means!
Leaving a Cat Home Alone: How Long is Safe?
Concerned about leaving a cat home alone? Considering if she's a kitten or senior cat and her relationship with you can help you decide how long is safe.
Just How Smart Are Cats?
Know the importance of understanding a cat's intelligence, mysterious and compelling nature, and cognitive abilities for building a lasting bond with your pet.
Cat Heart Health and Feline Heart Disease
Learn more about the causes of feline heart disease and the signs you can watch out for to promote heart health in your cat.
Tips & Resources for Feeding Your Cat
Learn how cat's naturally feed and ways you can help meet their nutritional needs without disrupting their feeding behavior.
Skin Problems to Watch For in Your Cat
Learn about 5 of the most common skin problems that can manifest in cats, as well as how to detect if your cat might have one of them.
Home Dental Care Methods for Your Cat
Use these 4 steps on how to properly brush and provide the right dental care for your cat's teeth.
Service Cats: Giving Emotional Support to Pet Parents
Read all about service cats, including how these special felines can comfort humans and provide emotional support for a number of medical issues.
Origins of 6 Common Cat Sayings
Learn about the origins of the most common cat phrases and exactly what it means when you hear one.
Is My Cat Pregnant? How to Tell & Tips for Care
Learn how to spot common signs that your cat might be pregnant, as well as care and nutrition tips for her if you find out she is expecting.
Hill's Kitten Foods: A Healthy Choice for Your Kitten
Discover the benefits of Hill's line of kitten foods and how they provide complete and balance nutrition for growing kittens.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.