[1][10], The Munchkin comes in all coat colors and patterns. 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. Spinal malformations are usually evident at birth or in the first few weeks of life. [16] Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene, with two copies of the gene, are not viable and do not develop in the womb. [4], Many pedigree cat associations around the world have refused to recognize the Munchkin cat due to the welfare of the breed and severity of the health issues.[4]. The short legs of the Munchkin cat come from a dominant genetic mutation. Feline urinary tract disease, also called FLUTD, is a serious condition that can impact cats of any breed. Hepper is reader-supported. Does it hurt the cats? [9] Dr. Solveig Pflueger, a show judge, geneticist, and Chairperson of TICA's Genetics Committee was a strong advocate for the official recognition of the breed. Pectus Excavatum The term pectus excavatum literally means "hollow breast" in Latin. Lordosis is a dip in the portion of the spinal column located in front of the shoulder blades. 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. [5] The breed is also not recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association. The breed's story begins in 1983, when a female cat was rescued in Louisiana. The Munchkin cat's short legs lead people who are unfamiliar with the breed to believe that these cats are very slow-moving. Lordosis may be mild or severe, and if it's bad enough, the kitten won't live past three months of age. [9][12] The Munchkin breed achieved TICA Championship status in May 2003. In most cats, there is no obvious underlying cause for this condition, so Munchkin cats are not necessarily more likely to develop pancreatitis than other cat breeds. Munchkin cats may be of any color and pattern imaginable. At Excited Cats, we regularly consult with licensed veterinarians and other industry experts. Instead of pairing registered Munchinks with one another, they outcross Munchkin cats with domestic cats and other purebreds, ensuring a diverse gene pool and reducing the likelihood of genetic diseases. Keep your kitty's claws clipped to prevent damage to your belongings, and consider teaching your kitten to allow toothbrushing from a young age. 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. Females are usually smaller than males. 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). 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 Munchkins series is known for its humor and light-hearted tone, and this game captures that same spirit. This can lead to urinary blockages, which are a medical emergency that must be dealt with immediately to prevent bladder rupture, sepsis, and death. The spinal vertebrae form a depression downwards towards the body in the affected Munchkin cats. Munchkin cats are a relatively new cat breed that are loving, playful companions but can also present health issues. Shes always had a cat in her home and has spent countless days with others, observing behaviors and softening up even the grouchiest of the lot. While all Munchkins have limb deformities to some degree, some experience significant difficulties with mobility because of it. Punnett squares, in which the M represents the dominant munchkin gene and the m represents the recessive normal gene, may be used to illustrate the chances of a particular mating resulting in a short-legged cat. Breeders are quick to point out thatthese conditions can also occur in normal-sized cats, but vets have found a correlation between the genetic mutation and these health problems. [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. Only kittens that are heterozygous for the munchkin gene, with only one copy, develop into viable short legged munchkin kittens. 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. As the cancer grows, it spreads from the lymphatic system and metastasizes into multiple parts of the body. The Munchkin has been crossed with the curly-coated LaPerm to create the Skookum,[37] the hairless Sphynx to create the Minskin and Bambino,[38][39] another curly-coated Selkirk Rex to create the Lambkin,[40] the Persian breed group (which includes Himalayans and Exotic Shorthair) to create the Napoleon (renamed the Minuet), the curled-eared American Curl to create the Kinkalow, the folded-eared Scottish Fold to create the Scottish Kilts, and also with the Bengal to create the Genetta. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. This condition causes compression of the heart, says Simons. Breeds with a higher rating in this area tend to be gentle and patient, while lower-rated breeds may feel uncomfortable with children. Widening the gene pool can reduce these problem. Dwarf cats, like regular cats, are susceptible to health problems, but they can live long and happy lives if properly cared for. The mating of two munchkin parents, Mm x Mm, have the chance of producing these offspring: 25% MM- a nonviable kitten, 50% Mm-short-legged, 25% mm- normal. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be helpful, and are in some cases much more sensitive than X-rays. 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 little cat craves company from children, dogs, other animals, and strangers. Lordosis and pectus excavatum are two of the most common forms of chest pain. Munchkin cats come in three different heights: Standard, supershort, and rug hugger. Munchkin cats tend to be small in size. If youre considering adding a Munchkin kitten to your home, talk to your breeder about the health of their cats. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. These kitties absolutely love their toys and they love it even more when their human companions take time out for interactive play. Owners of Munchkin cats should keep an eye out for overfeeding issues, as do Dachshunds and Corgis. In some cases, management of long term symptoms will be necessary. It depends on who you ask. If your cat is showing neurological signs such as dizziness, seizures or paralysis postoperatively, restricted activity combined with physical therapy may be helpful. The Munchkin cat is so much more than an adorable little pet: These cats are sweet natured, personable, and playful. While these cats may look cute, their adorable, stout physique may come at a price. Munchkin cats are most commonly identified by their short legs and long bodies. This condition often occurs in Munchkins, and short spinal muscles characterize it due to the short legs and long bodies. They are easy to train because they are playful, outgoing, and outgoing. Pancreatitis is characterized by inflammation of your cats pancreas. [4][36] Diagnosis of osteoarthritis and the assessment of its severity for a cat may require radiography. Normal mm kittens will not, as they do not have a copy of the munchkin gene. In general, a whisker cat can live between 12 and 15 years, though a cat with health issues may only live for a few years. 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. Because of its physical features, it is a breed of cat that is particularly suited to fast and agile living conditions. 8 Reasons for This Behavior. But do Munchkin cats have more health issues than other cat breeds? You may have seen videos or pictures on social media of these short-legged felines, often affectionately called sausage cats, and wondered how their legs get so short. While Munchkin cats have not been shown to have the same spine problems that short-legged dogs tend to have, some still view the practice of breeding animals to emphasize certain physical characteristics as irresponsible. Some breeders believe Lordosis in Munchkin cats results from the defective gene causing the short legs. You might think that Munchkin cats can't jump. Abnormally shaped limbs can result in excessive weight load on the joints that cats with normal limbs dont experience. In cats over the age of six, hyperthyroidism is most common, and this condition is also known as metabolic syndrome. However, it certainly doesnt make them healthier and provides them with no specific advantages. Congenital spinal and vertebral malformations are most often genetically inherited (as opposed to adverse conditions during fetal development). [3] Many pedigree cat associations around the world have refused to recognize the Munchkin cat due to the welfare of the breed and severity of the health issues,[4] including the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF). You might liken the Munchkin cat to one of the hot dog dog breeds such as the Dachshund. With this very rare health issue, spinal muscles do not grow to the correct size and the spine of the cat begins to sink down inside the body of the cat and death is almost always certain. We recommend to look at https://tica.org/munchkin-breeders. See also: Munchkin Cat Facts: 8 Amazing Things You Didnt Know, Featured Image Credit: SV_zt, Shutterstock, 4 Homemade Grain-Free Cat Treat Recipes (Vet Approved). This in turn puts pressure on the trachea, lungs and heart. [9] It is from Blackberry and Toulouse's litter that today's Munchkin breed is descended. Breeds with high activity levels will engage more in active play and demand more space and attention. Feed your Munchkin a measured meal two to three times a day, using a life stage-appropriate food (kitten, adult, or senior). The prognosis is highly variable based on how severe the cancer is, but early treatment usually provides the best prognosis. In addition to their official names, most breeds earn a few nicknames. 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. . In the earliest stages of this disease, your Munchkin may begin to experience difficulty with visual acuity at night and in low light situations. Similarity to other breeds is grounds for disqualification. A munchkin kitten that reach the age of ten months old will weigh about four pounds and their coats will start to become silvery white with black specks. If you want to see a short-legged cat, go and watch a cartoon. What You Need to Know. As Munchkin cats get along very well with other pets including well-mannered dogs, they will enjoy playtime together when given the opportunity. You will need to give your veterinarian a thorough history of your cat's health and onset of symptoms. In this article, we will discuss Munchkin cats in more detail, the controversy regarding these cats, and health problems they commonly develop. Do not free-feed a Munchkin cat, as this can lead to obesity. Many Munchkins experience limited mobility in their spine due to a variety of factors, like their elongated back length compared to their height. 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. [30] The condition has sometimes been referred to as hypochondroplasia or pseudoachondroplasia. These cats are known for their short legs, and they make great pets for those who are looking for a smaller, more compact cat. [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 chances of a Munchkin offspring are 50%. Not only is their lifespan shortened, but they may also suffer from chronic health problems. Why Isnt My Puppy Eating and What Can I Do About It? Lordosis, a genetic disorder, affects no one, but it is found in the Munchkins. If neurological signs (paralysis) are present, a myelography can be used to indicate with precision at which level the spinal cord is compressed. Sprinkle your kitty's scratcher with catnip to encourage them to sink their claws into appropriate materials only and to bring out even more playfulness. The Munchkin cat is so much more than an adorable little pet: These cats are sweet natured, personable, and playful. They are affectionate animals that can be kept with both children and other pets. However, the Munchkin breed standards state that these cats can only be recognized if they are bred with a domestic longhair or shorthair with no recognized breeds, so they can be crossed with well-known pedigree cats to create short-legged varieties of those breeds. Lordosis is a spinal condition in which the spinal muscles grow too thin, giving a kitten the appearance of being short. A Munchkin cat's legs should be short, and should be set evenly apart, with the upper and lower forelegs being of equal length. It is important to comb them on a regular basis to remove loose hair and prevent mats and tangles. But she isnt going to take your money and not make with a cat. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cat's lower back. 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. Non-standard Munchkins are not allowed to be shown. To identify a munchkin cat, look for short front legs with slightly taller back legs and a long body. Some individuals also suffer from a condition called pectus excavatum, which causes a hollow chest. This doesnt just apply to their shortened legs, either. As a result of its short legs, it was initially rejected by the International Cat Association (TICA). These cats must be bred in a cruel and irresponsible manner. Saying they can jump or run like a normal cat would be false, she says. Your pets quality of life with chemotherapy depends on how aggressive the cancer is; if your cats lymphosarcoma is low-grade, your cat can have a relatively normal quality of life. Congenital Heart Defect (Atrial Septal Defect) in Cats. Munchkins are prone to a congenital (present from birth) malformation called lordosis, an inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, says Simons. One possible genetic health problem of Munchkin kittens is a condition called lordosis, also known as tight chest. However, while lymphosarcoma can be treated, like other cancers, it cannot be cured. [6][7][8], Short-legged cats have been documented a number of times around the world since the 1940s. [21] The Australian Capital Territory (a territory of Australia) government consider the munchkin breed to be "malformed animals" and the deliberate breeding of them "unacceptable" because of the "genetic health problems associated with such breeding". Breeds that score higher in this area have strong hunting instincts that make them great playtime companions. It can come with a range of severity, from mild to severe. Their offspring formed the foundation for the Munchkin cat breed as we know it today. Their short legs are a result of an inherited trait. 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. Below, we will go over some of the most common health problems Munchkin cats develop. The typical adult weight range of this cat breed. 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. This condition, known as lordosis, affects the spine and causes it to be excessively curved. Munchkin cats are the product of a genetic mutation that causes a form of dwarfism, called achondroplasia or chondrodysplasia. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cats lower back. . Be the first to get our latest updates, insider videos, cat health resources, and more. Mowkin cats are not intended for household use, so if you want a fluffy pet, dont buy one. These playful, friendly cats have legs about 3 inches shorter than your typical cat. Can Cats Eat Kale? Lordosis causes a shortening of the muscles that hold the spine in place, allowing it to sink down into the chest cavity. "Lordosis" is a deformity of a cat's lower spine, and "Pectus Excavatum" occurs when the ribs and sternum don't grow properly. The Bambino is a new cat breed that crosses the hairless Sphynx cat with a Munchkin to create a short-legged cat with no fur. They thrive in households with children as well as other pets. Theyre not overly vocal, and while they arent anxious, they do enjoy company. Her rescuer, Sandra Hochenedel, gave one of the male short-legged kittens to a friend named Kay LaFrance. This cat is not concerned about its unusual appearance because it is confident and outgoing. There are numerous examples of munchkins who are friendly, sociable, and playful. Long-haired Munchkin cats typically display very soft, silky coats. Lordosis is the most common health issues that these cats might face. 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. Specifically, sacrococcygeal dysgenesis (defective development) is a dominant trait, while thoracic hemivertebra (chest half-vertebra) is a recessive trait. Kittens bearing two normal genes (mm) will be normal. A genetic defect in their cartilage allows them to have shortened limbs; this is a distinguishing feature of the Munchkin breed.
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