Therefore, the fact that some breeders selected for the munchkin gene was controversial. These cats must be bred in a cruel and irresponsible manner. This disease is often manageable with a combination of medications and a specialized diet that prevents crystal formation. A mutation causes the cats legs to be short and stubby, which is the cats most recognizable feature. Leave the cat alone.. They are easy to train because they are playful, outgoing, and outgoing. They may have short or long hair, and they come in every color imaginable. Their offspring formed the foundation for the Munchkin cat breed as we know it today. If the vet tells you that the cat has Lordosis towards the neck region, he or she will be talking about Cervical Lordosis. Pectus excavatum is a deformity of the cartilage of the sternum and ribs. [11] Amidst much controversy, the Munchkin was proposed as a new breed by foundation breeders Laurie Bobskill and Robert Bobskill of Massachusetts and accepted by TICA into its New Breed development program in September 1994. This condition, known as lordosis, affects the spine and causes it to be excessively curved. Coping with Pet Allergies, Cornell University Veterinary Specialists, Association of American Feed Control Officials-approved cat food. Feet should be pointed straightforward, not pronated inward or outward. Visible signs of a distorted spinal column are lordosis (curvature of the spine at the lower back) and kyphosis (a posterior curvature of the spine). [16] The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy likewise refuses to recognize the breed, considering this breed and others like it to be "unacceptable" because they are based on an "abnormal structure or development". Cats with very short legs look like miniature cats in the same way that cats with long legs look like miniature cats in the same way that cats with long legs look like miniature cats in the same way that cats with long legs look These dogs are friendly, affectionate, and easy to train. Their mobility, for the most part, isnt terribly affected by having shorter legs. This is especially important given that short-legged cats such as Munchkins and Munchkin mixes are prone to spinal issues such as lordosis. As the cancer grows, it spreads from the lymphatic system and metastasizes into multiple parts of the body. The Cat Fanciers Association, which does not recognize the Munchkin, considers the Bambino experimental and discourages the breed. Cat Nail Biting: What to Do If Your Cat Chews & Pulls His Claws, Why Is My Kitten So Hyper? The International Cat Association (TICA) agrees with this argument and accepts the Munchkin cat as a registered breed. Munchkin cats are not a new breed, but they have only recently been accepted by some cat registries. The Munchkin Cat Breed: Everything You Need To Know - Catinformer.com including osteoarthritis caused by lordosis, or an inward curvature of the spine, and pectus excavatum, or "funnel chest". Munchkin cats may not be able to jump high, but they are surprisingly nimble and agile on ground level. Most Munchkins dont require any intervention for this deformity, though. Controversial Munchkin Cat Health Problems and - Kittentoob Munchkin cats actually have a relatively long life expectancy. Any help would be appreciated, Your email address will not be published. Medications to soften the feces, an easily digestible diet, and occasional treatment with antibiotics is standard for some cats with spinal malformations. A natural genetic mutation gives the Munchkin cat breed those short legs, but otherwise their build is quite average for a small cat. Are Munchkin cats cute? 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. Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene are not viable due . Veterinarians often recommend a mix of wet food (which can help kitties stay hydrated) and dry kibble (to help reduce tartar buildup on their teeth). Although not a disorder within itself, decreased mobility impacts a large number of Munchkin cats. Lordosis, a genetic disorder, affects no one, but it is found in the Munchkins. In mild cases, IVDD is often successfully managed with pain medications, physical therapy, and steroids, although it can continue to worsen over time. While these cats may look cute, their adorable, stout physique may come at a price. Non-standard Munchkins are not allowed to be shown. When this occurs, it leads to compression of the internal organs. Munchkin cat - Wikipedia Are munchkin cats bred differently than other types of cats? Munchkin cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however it is best to offer a high-protein diet. In experiencing a decrease in spinal mobility, many of these cats lack the ability to properly groom themselves, leading to poor coat and skin health. [26][27][28], The genetic mutation causing the short-legged trait in Munchkins is referred to as achondroplasia,[16][29] the genetic disorder that results in dwarfism and is typically associated with an enlarged head as well as short legs but can also involve symptoms that include undersized jaw, thick-looking joints, curved spine, and a bow-legged or knock knee posture. The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. 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. Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of your cats thyroid hormone, which results in a metabolic rate thats higher than average. As a result of its short legs, it was initially rejected by the International Cat Association (TICA). 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. If a person sincerely cared for their animals, he or she would not intentionally deform them in this manner. In fact, breeding cats, whether munchkins or other types, can have a negative impact on pet overpopulation. [4], The Munchkin has similar characteristics to normal domestic cats, due to their frequent use as outcrosses. Stay on top of cat food recalls here >, Have a dog? Munchkin cats are at a higher than average risk for osteoarthritis, which can become severe with age. The Osbornes bred sphynx cats, carrying the recessive hairless gene, with munchkin cats that carried the dominant short-legged gene. They are characterized by their short legs, which is the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation. In severe cases of lordosis, a highly specialized and risky surgery can be performed to correct the spinal deformity or to increase space within the chest. Many people deliberately breed cats like this because they believe they are cute and adorable. Do Munchkin Cats Have Health Problems? - Munchkin Cat Guide Can a Dog Take Metronidazole Without Food? Not all Munchkin cats are bred into existence by humans. By There are certain health conditions associated with Munchkin cats including arthritis and lordosis but breeders argue that these are not breed-specific. Pectus Excavatum The term pectus excavatum literally means "hollow breast" in Latin. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Is there an available list to look at? It's very important to note that breeding one Munchkin cat to another Munchkin cat can lead to serious health problems in the offspring. Munchkin cats cost between $1,000-$2,000. Controversial Munchkin cats may be trendyto some people who find them cute, but is it cruel to breed cats with genetic deformities intentionally? For Munchkin cats, they are often especially prone to deformities of the forelimbs. Breeds that score higher in this area have strong hunting instincts that make them great playtime companions. If they experience whisker fatigue with a bowl, a flat plate or mat may be preferable for some cats. This condition often occurs in Munchkins, and short spinal muscles characterize it due to the short legs and long bodies. This type of cancer can be treated in some instances, but it is not always treatable. Like many unusual cat types (including the Cornish rex . When your cat is unable to properly expel its urine, it can lead to a buildup of toxins in their bodies. 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. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be helpful, and are in some cases much more sensitive than X-rays. Lordosis is a rare spinal condition whereby the muscles in the spine do not grow to full length. The name isnt the only adorable thing about the Munchkin. The munchkin gene is an autosomal dominant one. If your cat is showing neurological signs such as dizziness, seizures or paralysis postoperatively, restricted activity combined with physical therapy may be helpful. Over time, the cat will experience a progressive loss of visual acuity until blindness sets in. 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. Keep an eye out for anything unusual. Thanks to social media, Munchkin cats are becoming more widely known and well-loved by many people. It is a short-legged breed of cat similar to dachshunds. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. This imaging technique uses a radiopaque substance that is injected into the spine, or into the membranous space that surrounds the spinal cord so that the defects in the spine will be visible on X-ray projections. If you have a long-haired Munchkin cat, daily grooming is essential. Visible signs of a distorted spinal column are lordosis (curvature of the spine at the lower back) and kyphosis (a posterior curvature of the spine). Well, there is no definitive answer, as opinions seem to vary quite a bit on this topic. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cats lower back. Be aware that, while most Munchkins have little to no trouble getting around like other felines, the mutation that causes their short legs can lead to other health issues. This condition is rare in cats, but cats with elongated and malformed spines, like Munchkins, can be at a higher risk. Breeds with high activity levels will engage more in active play and demand more space and attention. While all Munchkins have limb deformities to some degree, some experience significant difficulties with mobility because of it. Check out diva kits Scottish Fold Munchkins she is legit but you may have to wait for your kitty. She had been abandoned outdoors, and had been chased under a pickup truck by a dog. Munchkin cats are the product of a genetic mutation that causes a form of dwarfism, called achondroplasia or chondrodysplasia. 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. 18 Facts About Munchkin Cats - Cat-World 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. However, it certainly doesnt make them healthier and provides them with no specific advantages. Hi Michael, 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). Kittens bearing one munchkin gene and one normal gene (Mm) will be short-legged munchkins. The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. https://www.mypets.net.au/munchkin-cat/. Learn more. Some of the first signs that your cat is suffering from osteoarthritis are changes in your cats gait or even lameness in one or more limbs. [11] For many years, the Munchkin breed was not accepted in feline competitions due to the controversial breeding. Critics claimed that these cats can suffer from back and hip problems similar to those experienced by short-legged dog breeds. Saying they can jump or run like a normal cat would be false, she says. Featured Image: Dasha Parfenova, Shutterstock. Read more here. Cats that have been diagnosed with this defect should not be bred, nor should their parents be bred further, since congenital spinal and vertebral malformations are hereditary. 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. Breeds with higher intelligence ratings are more curious, investigative, and easy to train. The appeal of a playful, fluffy Munchkin cat is undeniable. A full physical exam will be performed. This greatly reduces the risk of health issues that could cause discomfort and early death. This kitten was named Toulouse, and was eventually bred back to Blackberry. 8. These cats are known for their short legs, and they make great pets for those who are looking for a smaller, more compact cat. These abnormalities are responsible for the disability that they cause from birth. Vincent The Cat Gets Rare Prosthetic Leg Impants, monitoring_string = "44e5bb901650ec61e9e0af1ff1bef5fe". The spinal vertebrae form a depression downwards towards the body in the affected Munchkin cats. A genetic defect in their cartilage allows them to have shortened limbs; this is a distinguishing feature of the Munchkin breed. Lordosis in Munchkin cats occurs when the spine does not grow accordingly, giving it an inward curvature appearance. Pflueger was also a breeder of Munchkin cats herself, having been initially sent two cats from Hochenedel. Since other indoor cats tend to live 10 to 15 years on average, we can conclude that the Munchkin cats genetic deformity does not necessarily take a toll on its ability to live a full life. This disorder can not only decrease joint mobility, but it also causes pain and increases the likelihood of injuries to unaffected joints since the cat may offload from the painful limb, increasing wear and tear on other body parts. [6][7][8], Short-legged cats have been documented a number of times around the world since the 1940s. Simons recommends that all cats, Munchkins included, be brushed weekly. Munchkins are playful and kitten-like the majority of their lives, says Dawn Lott, who in addition to breeding and showing Munchkins for 23 years, serves as TICA breed chair. When paired with their average-size bodies (they generally weigh 69 pounds), this gives this dwarf cat a unique look, and their affectionate personalities are the cherry on top. With its large eyes, folded ears, short legs, and playful personality, this cat is one of the most sought-after cats in the world. Video unavailable There are cats who live for up to 15 years, but some older ones have health issues that shorten their life span. The Munchkin Cat: A New Breed Of Cat - Munchkin Kitten Store While life expectancy is fairly consistent across all cat breeds, some breeds tend to live shorter or longer than others. Kittens bearing two normal genes (mm) will be normal. Keep your kitty's claws clipped to prevent damage to your belongings, and consider teaching your kitten to allow toothbrushing from a young age. If you want to see a short-legged cat, go and watch a cartoon. 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. Surgery can be helpful for cases involving narrowing of the spinal canal and decompression of the spinal cord. Because they are frequently discarded or abandoned, the munchkin cat population has grown steadily. Her rescuer, Sandra Hochenedel, gave one of the male short-legged kittens to a friend named Kay LaFrance. This cat, later named Blackberry, was pregnant and gave birth to a litter that included some kittens with short legs. Cats with this condition, known as mollusks, show signs of disorganization and behavior as if they were other cats. The tail should be of medium length about the same length as the cat's body. When it comes down to it, breeding a cat with short legs is done only to please humans, not for the benefit of cats. It depends on who you ask. Plus they offer carrier services if you cant make it to Orlando to pick up your cutie. The Munchkin cat is a small to medium-sized breed that matures to an average weight of 5 to 9 pounds. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Due to this genetic defect, any Munchkin cat can only be bred with regular cats, so they cannot inherit it from both parents. Here are seven facts you might not have known about these adorable, stubby-limbed pets. Merrikins can live for up to 12-15 years on average if properly cared for. Do Munchkin Cats Have More Health Problems Than Other Cats? Specifically, this term refers to a defect in which an animals sternum and ribs grow improperly. You may notice your cat struggling to get around in low light or becoming less active at night. 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. The offspring have a 50% chance of being Munchkins. How are mollusks manufactured? Brooke spent nine years as a veterinary assistant before becoming a human nurse in 2013. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Cats.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. So, are munchkin cats that bad? The legs of the Munchkin may be slightly bowed, although excessive bowing is a disqualification in the show ring. 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. There is no treatment for osteoarthritis, but it can typically be managed to a degree with treatment modalities like pain medications, physical therapy, and low-impact exercise. This results in shortened and often deformed limbs. Lordosis Pectus Excavatum Hypochondroplasia Osteoarthritis Minor Conditions: Gingivitis: A common gum disease in cats that causes redness and swelling of the gums. IVDD is painful and can lead to permanent spinal damage and even paralysis. Lordosis is an abnormal spinal shape in which the spine slopes or dips down into the chest cavity. If left untreated, lymphoma will inevitably lead to death. orally, intravenously, or subcutaneously. Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye condition that progresses throughout a cats life, eventually leading to blindness. The Munchkins' short legs make them unable to leap and snatch at things. Due to their unique posture, this breed is prone to a few skeletal malformations as it ages. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. This causes the breastbone to sink in. 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. With their short legs, any additional ounces can put more strain on their spines. If you think your cat may be experiencing uremia, contact your vet right away. If the malformations lead to secondary spinal cord compression and trauma, the affected cat will display ataxia and paresis. Your cat may be experiencing FLUTD if it is displaying any of the following symptoms: urinating in small amounts, crying while urinating, failing to urinate in the litter box, frequent licking of the genitals, or blood in the urine. Dwarf cats, according to the Munchkin cat, are all disproportionally short legs, and they are the original and most well-known of all. Secondary damage due to spinal compression may be avoided if surgical intervention takes place early on. 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. X-rays will be retaken with each follow-up visit as well. Even if your cat goes into remission, the cancer is likely to return at some point down the road. Congenital spinal and vertebral malformations are most often genetically inherited (as opposed to adverse conditions during fetal development). Animals with this condition have a relatively good prognosis as long as they are diagnosed young; the best time to perform surgery is between 8 and 12 weeks of age. Critics predicted that the breed would develop back, hip and leg problems similar to those that plague some Dachshunds. [23] Some sources state that the shortness of their legs does not interfere with their running and leaping abilities,[24] while others state their ability to jump is limited by their condition. It may appear surprising that Munchkin cats are just as active and lively as their larger counterparts given their diminutive size.
