Michael & Christine, Diva Kits did scam me out of a lot of money. talk to a vet online for advice >. The first known records of a short-legged cat date back to 1944. Dwarf cats, like regular cats, are susceptible to health problems, but they can live long and happy lives if properly cared for. Because the Munchkin can develop arthritis, Simons says its important to feed them a high-quality diet with supplements to support joint health. Cow-hocked legs are also penalized. They may also have some compression around the heart that can lead to decreased cardiac functionality. Since they aren't likely to leap onto tall tabletops and high display shelves, members of the Munchkin cat breed might be ideal for people who love cats but worry about the impact they might have on collectibles. Munchkin cat breeders select for this gene, which affects leg bone length. 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. [31][32], However, there appear to be two conditions with increased incidence in the Munchkin breed: lordosis (excessive curvature of the spine)[33] and pectus excavatum (hollowed chest). This trait is so prevalent that the breed has been nicknamed "The magpie of the cat world!". [25], It is not fully known how the mutation impacts the health of the breed. Teacup cats are small cats that have been bred to be so small. Your email address will not be published. Look for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the abdomen, lack of appetite, and lethargy. However, while lymphosarcoma can be treated, like other cancers, it cannot be cured. Hi Michael, Because of the deformities associated with the form of dwarfism that Munchkins have, it does increase the risk of a variety of issues, especially those related to the musculoskeletal system. Medications to soften the feces, an easily digestible diet, and occasional treatment with antibiotics is standard for some cats with spinal malformations. Height is measured from the top of the head to the bottom of the front paws. 2. Vincent The Cat Gets Rare Prosthetic Leg Impants, monitoring_string = "44e5bb901650ec61e9e0af1ff1bef5fe". Since only one parent has the mutation, the kittens can survive and be sold for a high price. If youre considering adding a Munchkin kitten to your home, talk to your breeder about the health of their cats. While life expectancy is fairly consistent across all cat breeds, some breeds tend to live shorter or longer than others. If left untreated, lymphoma will inevitably lead to death. 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. It should taper and have a rounded end. The breed's story begins in 1983, when a female cat was rescued in Louisiana. This condition is rare in cats, but cats with elongated and malformed spines, like Munchkins, can be at a higher risk. Some registries, such as the Fdration Internationale Fdline, have yet to recognize the breed. There is no easy way to know what impact this has on welfare. Though they are purposefully bred due to their popularity, Munchkin cats occur naturally. Lott says Munchkins are a smart, trainable breed. Munchkin cats can live between 12 and 15 years, but if they have health problems, their lifespans shorten. They called the new breed bambino (the Italian word for "baby"). This greatly reduces the risk of health issues that could cause discomfort and early death. Keep an eye out for any areas they seem to be missing or unable to reach. Over time, the cat will experience a progressive loss of visual acuity until blindness sets in. You might liken the Munchkin cat to one of the hot dog dog breeds such as the Dachshund. However, myelography is generally the diagnostic imaging technique of choice. You might also observe your cat jumping up and down from furniture less frequently. If the spinal compression is diffuse or long-term, your cat may not respond to surgery. [13] There is controversy among breeders of pedigree cats as to what genetic mutations are abnormal and potentially disadvantageous to the cat. If they experience whisker fatigue with a bowl, a flat plate or mat may be preferable for some cats. Do you know where I can get some help with this? Symptoms include loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, and depression. 8. This in turn puts pressure on the trachea, lungs and heart. This can lead to urinary blockages, which are a medical emergency that must be dealt with immediately to prevent bladder rupture, sepsis, and death. 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. The Munchkin is a highly social cat that enjoys being around people. They are also still prone to developing the same health issues as other cat breeds, so its important to keep a close eye on your Munchkins health to ensure they stay happy and healthy for years to come. Munchkin cats are most commonly identified by their short legs and long bodies. Widening the gene pool can reduce these problem. This is uncommon in Munchkins and is not confined to short-legged cats. X-rays of the spinal column (including all vertebrae) can often reveal the exact malformation. "Lordosis" is a deformity of a cat's lower spine, and "Pectus Excavatum" occurs when the ribs and sternum don't grow properly. Osteoarthritis is a condition caused by the gradual breakdown of the cartilage within the joints. Normal mm kittens will not, as they do not have a copy of the munchkin gene. While bathing isnt necessary, Lott says the occasional bath can help cut down on shedding, if thats a particular concern. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. While all Munchkins have limb deformities to some degree, some experience significant difficulties with mobility because of it. If youre away from the house a lot, consider getting your kitty a furry friend. Leave the cat alone.. [2] There were early speculations that the Munchkin would develop spinal problems commonly seen in short-legged dog breeds; however, in 1995 several breeders had their oldest Munchkins X-rayed and examined for signs of joint or bone problems and found none. It also comes in a long-haired variety, which is shown in a separate Munchkin Longhair category. In this game, players take on the role of one of the kitten characters from the books and must use their wits and agility to navigate their way through a series of challenges. Breeds with a higher rating in this area tend to be gentle and patient, while lower-rated breeds may feel uncomfortable with children. Surgery is often recommended in moderate to severe cases.. Munchkin kittens, however, are vulnerable to lordosis, a rare spinal condition in which the spinal muscles grow short, allowing the spine to sink down into the body. Munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum, or a concave chest. Breeds are grouped by their size and coat type. It's very important to note that breeding one Munchkin cat to another Munchkin cat can lead to serious health problems in the offspring. Critics claimed that these cats can suffer from back and hip problems similar to those experienced by short-legged dog breeds. Others believe that munchkin cats are not cruelly treated because they are not in pain and they appear to be happy and healthy. Munchkin cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however it is best to offer a high-protein diet. However, the information found on Excited Cats should not be viewed as veterinary advice. Here are seven facts you might not have known about these adorable, stubby-limbed pets. 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. Lordosis and pectus excavatum are two of the most common forms of chest pain. The Munchkin cats with long legs do not carry the heterozygous gene (a cell containing two different alleles). 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. Do Munchkin Cats Have More Health Problems Than Other Cats? To keep them safe, keep them indoors if they have difficulty climbing stairs or staying up tall. Leg length affects the height only; the rest of the cat's body is proportioned like that of an average domestic cat. There is no cure for progressive retinal atrophy, and it is guaranteed to lead to blindness eventually, but the rate of progression can vary between cats. Use the suggested servings on the cat food label as your guide for meal portions, but talking with your vet is best for determining how much food your cat needs. Mutants such as spinal malformations and lordosis can occur in a munchkin cat, as do scoliosis and lordosis. Even if your cat goes into remission, the cancer is likely to return at some point down the road. 3. . When it comes down to it, breeding a cat with short legs is done only to please humans, not for the benefit of cats. Pflueger was also a breeder of Munchkin cats herself, having been initially sent two cats from Hochenedel. Some individuals also suffer from a condition called pectus excavatum, which causes a hollow chest. Although the breeds lifespan is pretty typical for a cat (around 1215 years), there are health issues pet parents should watch for. You may notice your cat struggling to get around in low light or becoming less active at night. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cats lower back. Lordosis is a disease caused by the spines dip in and pressure on the heart, lungs, and trachea, and it can be fatal as the organs expand. Mowkin cats are not intended for household use, so if you want a fluffy pet, dont buy one. While some cats dont seem to be affected by this downward curve, it can cause spinal pain, leaning to one side, and lead to reduced movement. If your cat is showing neurological signs such as dizziness, seizures or paralysis postoperatively, restricted activity combined with physical therapy may be helpful. Aside from these serious health issues, the cat may also suffer from lower urinary tract disease or hyperthyroidism. Feline lower urinary tract disease, or FLUTD, is a catch-all phrase for several different conditions of the urethra and bladder in cats. The International Cat Association (TICA) agrees with this argument and accepts the Munchkin cat as a registered breed. If you want to see a short-legged cat, go and watch a cartoon. They may have short or long hair, and they come in every color imaginable. These short cats tend to be confident and outgoing pets that have no qualms about exploring their environment and making new friends. As a result of its short legs, it was initially rejected by the International Cat Association (TICA). The parent to the Munchkin cats we have today is a short-legged cat named Blackberry who was found pregnant by a teacher, Sandra Hochenedel, in 1983. Congenital Heart Defect (Atrial Septal Defect) in Cats. Cost to Treat $150-$2,500 (surgical) Pumpkin Plans Pay Back* $135-$2,250 Osteoarthritis Munchkins are predisposed to osteoarthritis due to their shorter than average limbs. Brooke stays active with yoga and obtained her 200-hour yoga teacher certification in 2020, she also loves spending her free time researching and writing. [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. What You Need to Know. [31], Munchkin cats are known to be at a higher risk (than other feline breeds) for severe osteoarthritis because the shorter limbs affect their activity levels and behavior. [1] TICA rules for outcrossing allows the use of any domestic cat that does not already belong to a recognized breed. Hochenedel gave a short-legged male kitten from one of Blackberry's litters to a friend, Kay LaFrance of Monroe, Louisiana, and she named the kitten Toulouse. The Munchkin cat is so much more than an adorable little pet: These cats are sweet natured, personable, and playful. In severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary to maintain quality of life. In fact, breeding cats, whether munchkins or other types, can have a negative impact on pet overpopulation. Mild causes of pectus excavatum may show no clinical signs, whereas severe cases lead to cardiac and respiratory issues. 1. The Munchkin cat breed is relatively new, although individual cats with shorter than average legs have been noted and even encouraged throughout history. It is a small to medium-sized cat with a moderate body type and medium-plush coat. These cute cats are instantly lovable because of their short legs, long bodies, and loving personalities. Is there an available list to look at? This type of cancer can be treated in some instances, but it is not always treatable. You might think that Munchkin cats can't jump. Scoliosis (a lateral curvature of the spine) is also an easily visible form of vertebral malformation. Munchkin Cats: Just As Active As Their Larger Counterparts It may appear surprising that Munchkin cats are just as active and lively as their larger counterparts given their diminutive size. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, intravenously, or subcutaneously. Simons recommends that all cats, Munchkins included, be brushed weekly. Much controversy erupted over the breed when it was recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1997 with critics voicing concerns over potential health and mobility issues. Lordosis. [10] However, the breed would not be officially recognized at that time. [1][10], The Munchkin comes in all coat colors and patterns. The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. This is especially important given that short-legged cats such as Munchkins and Munchkin mixes are prone to spinal issues such as lordosis. How well the breed tends to get along with cats, dogs, and other pets. Are Munchkin cats cute? The short-haired variety has a medium-plush coat while the long-haired has a semi-long silky coat. 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. A mogginer is typically a healthy breed with no diseases or conditions. However, the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) and the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) refuse to recognize the Munchkin. The condition causes pain and dysfunction as a result of osteoarthritis. Their offspring formed the foundation for the Munchkin cat breed as we know it today. These cats must be bred in a cruel and irresponsible manner. Your cat will need to revisit your veterinarian every four to six months for neurological examinations and to monitor progression of clinical signs. The cost of a reputable kitten from a reputable breeder can range from $700 to $1,100, depending on a variety of factors. 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. Munchkin kittens take to litter training quickly, especially when you reward them with cat toys and treats. Munchkin kittens are susceptible to this condition, . Merrikins can live for up to 12-15 years on average if properly cared for. Fluffy Munchkins might need more frequent grooming than short-haired kitties, but in general, this breed has a low-maintenance coat. [30] The condition has sometimes been referred to as hypochondroplasia or pseudoachondroplasia. It is especially prevalent in male cats. The Munchkins series is known for its humor and light-hearted tone, and this game captures that same spirit. Pectus Excavatum The term pectus excavatum literally means "hollow breast" in Latin. The tail should be of medium length about the same length as the cat's body. Two short-legged Munchkins are unlikely to produce a litter of kittens. In mild cases, IVDD is often successfully managed with pain medications, physical therapy, and steroids, although it can continue to worsen over time. Because the Munchkin cat is a rare breed, it is in high demand. Do not free-feed a Munchkin cat, as this can lead to obesity. The short legs of the Munchkin cat, for example, have a dominant genetic mutation that contributes to their short stature. Miniature examples of the Munchkin breed can cost between $500 and $1500, but exhibition quality examples can cost up to $2000. We do our best to help you better understand your cats, but the information on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Read more here. To get a better view, theyll often stand on their hind legs. Concerns have been raised over the health impact of short legs on a spine of normal length which may lead to lordosis, a downward dip of the spine, munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum (concave chest) which causes the breastbone to sink in, and arthritis. This deformity is present at birth and is often diagnosable within days of birth. With their short legs, any additional ounces can put more strain on their spines. While some cats don't seem to be affected by this downward curve, it can cause spinal pain, leaning to one side, and lead to reduced movement. TICA granted the Munchkin cat breed championship status in 2003, but no progress toward advancing the Munchkin's status in the world of cat fancy has occurred since then. She has a soft spot for special needs animals and has a three-legged senior dog and an internet-famous cat with acromegaly and cerebellar hypoplasia. [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. The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. If the vet tells you that the cat has Lordosis towards the neck region, he or she will be talking about Cervical Lordosis. The typical adult height among individuals of this breed. Their short legs result from an autosomal dominant gene. 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. This condition often occurs in Munchkins, and short spinal muscles characterize it due to the short legs and long bodies. It is a short-legged breed of cat similar to dachshunds. There are many different options for treating hyperthyroidism, including oral medication, radioactive iodine therapy, a prescription diet, and surgery. Keep all these factors in mind before you choose your next feline friend. They are a cute cat that can be a great pet. They are affectionate animals that can be kept with both children and other pets. While this condition can be successfully treated, it is important that it is caught early. [4], The Munchkin has similar characteristics to normal domestic cats, due to their frequent use as outcrosses. Saying they can jump or run like a normal cat would be false, she says. Its worth noting that while some official cat breed organizations, including The International Cat Association (TICA), recognize the Munchkin as an official breed, others such as the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) dont. Also known as lymphoma, lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the lymphocytes, which are cells that play an important role in your cats immune system. Munchkin cats are at higher risk of this disorder developing than many other cat breeds due to their abnormal limb shape related to dwarfism. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. Munchkin cats are a relatively new cat breed that are loving, playful companions but can also present health issues. How to Get Cat Poop Stains Out of the Couch: 4 Stain Remover Options, Why Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet? Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Feet should be pointed straightforward, not pronated inward or outward. In the mildest cases, lordosis can cause shortness of breath. Solid colors, tabbies, harlequins, and pointed varieties are a few examples. A natural genetic mutation gives the Munchkin cat breed those short legs, but otherwise their build is quite average for a small cat. This condition, known as lordosis, affects the spine and causes it to be excessively curved. Munchkin cats have limited mobility compared to other breeds. To identify a munchkin cat, look for short front legs with slightly taller back legs and a long body. The Munchkin cat has been the source of some controversy since being officially recognized by the International Cat Association in the 1990s. The appeal of a playful, fluffy Munchkin cat is undeniable. Sure they may look cute to some. Can Cats Eat Kale? No special ear care is required for Munchkin cats, but if you notice buildup, redness, or odor, talk to your veterinarian. Munchkin cats cannot survive if they inherit this gene from both parents, so they are only bred with regular 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. 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. This disease involves a combination of factors, like inflammation of the urinary tract and crystals in the urine. Here are some of the most common issues that occur in Munchkin cats. This type of behavior is not acceptable in any way from anyone who has the best interests of animals at heart. The most prevalent issue is called lordosis. There is a lot of controversy surrounding the breeding of Munchkin cats since it is intentionally breeding a genetic deformity into the kittens. Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye condition that progresses throughout a cats life, eventually leading to blindness. The Munchkin cat is a fun-loving cat who enjoys interacting with kids, other cats, and even dogs. The offspring have a 50% chance of being Munchkins. Because a Munchkin is a short-legd cat, it can be bred with other cat breeds to create a new variety of munchkin. The name isnt the only adorable thing about the Munchkin. Munchkins love to play with just about anything, Lott says. Munchkins dont require special eye care, but contact your veterinarian if you notice signs of a potential eye problem, including discharge, swelling, or cloudy eyes. Shes the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. The term pectus excavatum literally means hollow breast in Latin. 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. Ensure they are fed an Association of American Feed Control Officials-approved cat food appropriate for their life stage, she says. Plus they offer carrier services if you cant make it to Orlando to pick up your cutie. 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. 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. Furthermore, they are affectionate, sociable, and great pets in their own right. They are easy to train because they are playful, outgoing, and outgoing. Longhair Munchkin cats may display lynx tips. It is a good idea to comb them once a week. [23], In 2014, Lilieput, a Munchkin cat from Napa, California, was named the shortest statured living cat in the world by Guinness World Records. [34][35] Both conditions are commonly seen in humans with pseudoachondroplasia. Over time, the breakdown of the joint cartilage can also lead to abnormal bone growth around the joint and a thickening of the joint capsule. These kitties like just about everyone they meet and will happily hop into a newcomer's lap. Her rescuer, Sandra Hochenedel, gave one of the male short-legged kittens to a friend named Kay LaFrance. The spinal vertebrae form a depression downwards towards the body in the affected Munchkin cats. [4][36] Diagnosis of osteoarthritis and the assessment of its severity for a cat may require radiography. In spite of their physical limitations, however, you may be surprised to learn that, unlike short dog breeds, Munchkin cats actually have a relatively long life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. Muckenkin cats can develop spinal deformities such as lordosis and scoliosis, among other issues. Breeds with higher grooming scores require more maintenance like brushing and bathing, while lower-scored breeds are virtually maintenance-free. Check out diva kits Scottish Fold Munchkins she is legit but you may have to wait for your kitty. This leads to a flattened, concave, or narrowed chest. Let us know in the comments below! [16] Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene, with two copies of the gene, are not viable and do not develop in the womb. Possibly, exposure of pregnant queens to: Compounds causing birth defects during fetal development. Munchkin Ragdolls are a relatively new breed of cat, and as such, they may not have any of these health problems. They make ideal family pets and are all-around good natured. These are energetic cats that tend to get along with all members of the family, both humans and other pets. Non-standard Munchkins are not allowed to be shown. 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. 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. This disorder occurs when the thyroid gland begins to overproduce hormones, which can lead to weight loss, hair loss, greasy and unkempt coat, vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, and an increase in eating and drinking. While the average lifespan of a Munchkin cat is 12 to 15 years, it may also develop health problems as a result of its short legs. Lordosis, a genetic disorder, affects no one, but it is found in the Munchkins. Some breeders believe Lordosis in Munchkin cats results from the defective gene causing the short legs. Munchkin cats are not the only breed that suffers from the health conditions listed above, but in some cases, their abnormally short legs and long bodies may increase their risk of developing health problems down the road. Although not a disorder within itself, decreased mobility impacts a large number of Munchkin cats. If the condition is severe and untreatable, euthanasia should be considered. 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. Pancreatitis is characterized by inflammation of your cats pancreas. They thrive in households with children as well as other pets. The dominant gene of the Munchkin cat is referred to as a lethal gene, which means that if two of the cats mate and pass on the dominant gene, the kittens will not survive. The Average lifespan for Munchkin is 12-15 years. Breeds with a high affection level want to give and receive a lot of attention, while less-affectionate breeds are not as interested in petting and snuggles. Feed your Munchkin a measured meal two to three times a day, using a life stage-appropriate food (kitten, adult, or senior). These playful, friendly cats have legs about 3 inches shorter than your typical cat. When your cat is unable to properly expel its urine, it can lead to a buildup of toxins in their bodies. This condition is rare in cats, but cats with elongated and malformed spines, like Munchkins, can be at a higher risk. Although some cats develop problems as a result of their posture over time, they are more like any other cat, just a little closer to the ground. [9][12] The Munchkin breed achieved TICA Championship status in May 2003. The first cases of short-legged cats were documented in Russia and the United States during the 1950s and 1970s. Decreased mobility can also lead to difficulties with everyday activities, like jumping to and from surfaces and playing. They are also expensive, and both breeders and scammers have taken advantage of that fact. One TICA judge even resigned because of the questionable ethics of breeding a cat with a genetic deformity intentionally. The reason: controversy over whether the mutation causing the breeds short legs poses health risks. If you have a long-haired Munchkin cat, daily grooming is essential. We recommend to look at https://tica.org/munchkin-breeders. Specifically, sacrococcygeal dysgenesis (defective development) is a dominant trait, while thoracic hemivertebra (chest half-vertebra) is a recessive trait. How much your Munchkin eats will depend on her weight, lifestyle, health, and other factors. [11] For many years, the Munchkin breed was not accepted in feline competitions due to the controversial breeding.
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