Munchkin Cat
Cat Facts

In the cat world, the Munchkin Cat is considered a relatively new cat breed. This adorable dwarf cat is characterized by its very short legs, a trait that results from a natural mutation. Man played no part in the 'creation' of the short legs, but since 1983, cat breeders have developed and refined the trait.

For indepth information regarding the history of these adorable little cats and the genetics behind feline dwarfism, please follow the link at the end of this review.

Features and Characteristics

Body: The Munchkin has a medium sized body, broad shoulders, a rounded chest and the back slopes gently upwards from the shoulders to the tail. Whilst the male is larger and heavier than the female, both have moderate to heavy boning and well developed muscles, but they are not bulky or compact.

Tail: The tail is moderately thick and tapers from the base to a rounded tip. When the Munchkin walks, it tends to carry its tail erect and high.

Legs: The distinguishing feature of the Munchkin is its short legs. The hind legs are slightly longer than their front legs, but it's important to note that the upper and lower parts of the legs are equal in length. The legs are medium boned and quite muscular. Munchkins come in a standard short-legged cat and non-standard long-legged cat. Note: The short legs should not hamper the cat's survival ability nor should it hamper the cat's mobility. Whilst some Munchkin Cats may show some bowing of the long bones, the spine should not be affected.

Head: The head is described as a modified wedge (or equilateral triangle) with contours that are rounded. The cheek bones are high, the chin is firm, the muzzle slender and the nose is of medium length. Munchkins have thick, moderately long and firm muscular necks.

Eyes: They have large, well spaced, expressive eyes that are walnut shaped. All eye colors are accepted and there is no relationship between eye and the coat color.

Ears: The ears can be described as triangular in shape with a broad base and rounded tips.

The Munchkin cat comes in two coat varieties. The Short-haired cat's coat has a medium undercoat and is semi-plush with a lustrous appearance. The Semi-longhaired cat's coat has a medium undercoat with a silky texture. The longer haired version also presents with a tail plume, britches and a ruff. This little beauty comes in all coat colors and patterns.

The Munchkin has captured the hearts and minds of many breeders. Over the years, a number of 'designer cats' have been 'created' using this diminutive cat: Napoleon cats, Minskin Cats, Kinkalows, Skookums and more. Visit our dwarf cats page to find out more about these cats.

Munchkin Cat Information

Would they suit a home with Children and other Pets?

It is a great pet for children, but younger kids need to be reminded that cats prefer gentle handling and that a cat's back legs must always be supported when they are carried. (This is to avoid undue pressure on the spine). They accept and get along with other cats and relaxed, 'cat-friendly' dogs.

Personality and Temperament

The Munchkin cat will capture your heart! This little cat retains its kitten-like qualities throughout its life. Most owners tell us that what their Munchkin cat lacks in height it makes up in personality. They are sociable and self assured cats that adore their owners who they lavish with affection. Being active, lively and playful means they make ideal pets for children. Whilst they are not great jumpers, they will find ingenious ways to find their way onto beds, furniture and perches.

Indoor or Outdoor Cats

The Munchkin cat is suited to indoor living. They can venture outdoors provided that it is into an enclosed, escape-proof garden or a cat enclosure.

Cat Grooming and Cat Care

Munchkin cats are medium to low maintenance cat breeds. The shorthaired version needs to be brushed once a week, whilst the longhaired version would benefit from a being brushed daily. To assist you with cat grooming we have compiled extensive cat care tips.

Cat Health Concerns

Whilst these cats are generally very healthy, they are susceptible to common feline infectious diseases which all cats need to be vaccinated against.

Some breeding lines are prone to lordosis (an inward curvature of the spine) and pectus excavatum (a deformity of the chest causing a sunken or funnel chest). The T.I.C.A (The International Cat Association) geneticist has described them as a 'physically sound' breed. There have been very few cases of skeletal abnormalities reported. These are all rare conditions and by no means isolated to the Munchkin! We recommend that you buy your kitten from a cat breeder who has a good record of breeding healthy kittens and we also suggest that you invest in medical cat insurance for your cat (and all pets).

Cat Diet and Nutrition

Like all cats, the Munchkin cat needs a well balanced diet. Cat nutrition and the choice of cat food are critical to the health of your feline companion. It's also important that your cat has access to fresh, clean drinking water. Milk should be avoided as many cats are lactose intolerant. Cat treats should be limited and only give your cat healthy treats!

The Average Weight

2.2 kg - 4.0 kg (4.9 lbs - 8.8 lbs). These are average weights for the Munchkin, males are generally heavier than the females.

Life Expectancy

Their average life expectancy is 9 + years which is considered a medium life span.

Related Cat Pages:

Munchkin Cats - comprehensive cat profile and history

Munchkin Pictures - beautiful cat photos of Munchkin kittens and cats

Munchkin Breeders - International Cat Breeders Lists

Cat Pictures Courtesy of:

Top: © Theresa Fouche Photography: Theanis Knicky Knacky Blue Classic Tabby with White Munchkin Male Owner: Sue Kieser Breeder: Theresa Fouche

Center and Bottom: © Kristin DuBois of Blue Sky Cats: Munchkin - Standard Longhaired