These cute cats are instantly lovable because of their short legs, long bodies, and loving personalities. But do Munchkin cats have more health issues than other cat breeds? This cat is not concerned about its unusual appearance because it is confident and outgoing. A natural genetic mutation gives the Munchkin cat breed those short legs, but otherwise their build is quite average for a small cat. 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. Lordosis causes a shortening of the muscles that hold the spine in place, allowing it to sink down into the chest cavity. [9] She kept one of the cats and named her Blackberry and half of her kittens were born short-legged. They are characterized by their short legs, which is the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation. The chances of a Munchkin offspring are 50%. Widening the gene pool can reduce these problem. Breeds with a higher rating in this area tend to be gentle and patient, while lower-rated breeds may feel uncomfortable with children. Breeds are grouped by their size and coat type. To keep them safe, keep them indoors if they have difficulty climbing stairs or staying up tall. These cats can have long or short hair coats that can be any color. Munchkin cats are known for being friendly and affectionate, and they typically get along well with other pets and children. They may have short or long hair, and they come in every color imaginable. A cats length is measured from the base of the tail to the tip of the nose. This is uncommon in Munchkins and is not confined to short-legged cats. The appeal of a playful, fluffy Munchkin cat is undeniable. In this article, we will discuss Munchkin cats in more detail, the controversy regarding these cats, and health problems they commonly develop. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. While some say that Munchkin cats arent able to jump as high as other cats simply because their legs are so short, others argue that they avoid jumping because it causes them pain. The cost of a reputable kitten from a reputable breeder can range from $700 to $1,100, depending on a variety of factors. Uremia is usually accompanied by a kidney injury or an obstruction of your cats urinary tubes. If youre looking for a munchkin cat for sale, you may have some luck finding one at a local pet store or through a breeder. 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. [16] Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene, with two copies of the gene, are not viable and do not develop in the womb. The Munchkin cat is so much more than an adorable little pet: These cats are sweet natured, personable, and playful. [25], It is not fully known how the mutation impacts the health of the breed. The result is a fluffy and friendly feline that's perfect for nearly every household. Due to this genetic defect, any Munchkin cat can only be bred with regular cats, so they cannot inherit it from both parents. Many cat owners think that hairballs are just a natural part of a cats life and that theres nothing that, There has been some controversy about whether or not a raw food diet is a good idea for cats. The Munchkin cat breed is relatively new, although individual cats with shorter than average legs have been noted and even encouraged throughout history. Normal mm kittens will not, as they do not have a copy of the munchkin gene. [5] Breeding of Munchkin cats is prohibited by law in several countries due to these genetic health concerns. The Munchkin cat has been the source of some controversy since being officially recognized by the International Cat Association in the 1990s. Munchkin cats cost between $1,000-$2,000. A full physical exam will be performed. This disease involves a combination of factors, like inflammation of the urinary tract and crystals in the urine. A mogginer is typically a healthy breed with no diseases or conditions. Some people have argued that the Munchkin M gene mutation can cause health problems. Spinal malformations are usually evident at birth or in the first few weeks of life. 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 truth is, they are 100% feline, with magnetic personalities, a strong play drive, and an intense love of cuddling. . Your cat will need to revisit your veterinarian every four to six months for neurological examinations and to monitor progression of clinical signs. 8 Reasons for This Behavior, Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? Does it hurt the cats? Chemotherapy, surgery, and immune suppression are often successfully used to treat lymphoma in cats. They are described as having ferret-like movements due to their fast speed and location low to the ground. Because Munchkins can have long or short coats, keep an eye on your Munchkins fur and brush her regularly to prevent mats or tangles. He has a long, skinny body, walnut-shaped eyes, and triangular ears. You may notice your cat struggling to get around in low light or becoming less active at night. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. There may be variations depending on geographical location, coat color, and other factors. Intervertebral disc disease, also called IVDD, is a disorder in which the spine experiences changes that can lead to herniation of the protective layers between the vertebrae and protrusion of the disc within. Like many unusual cat types (including the Cornish rex . Over time, hyperthyroidism can contribute to other complications such as high blood pressure, or hypertension, and a type of heart disease known as thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy. 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. A high-quality, beautiful, and beautiful body will set you back between $1500 and $3500 for a mummy kitten. Aside from these serious health issues, the cat may also suffer from lower urinary tract disease or hyperthyroidism. By These kitties don't know that their legs are far shorter than the average cat's; they simply enjoy life a little closer to the ground! For each kitten conceived from this mating, there is a 25% chance it will fail to gestate, a 25% chance it will be normal, and a 50% chance it will be short-legged. Feline urinary tract disease, also called FLUTD, is a serious condition that can impact cats of any breed. Scoliosis (a lateral curvature of the spine) is also an easily visible form of vertebral malformation. Its recommended that this surgery is performed when a kitten is between 812 weeks of age, so its important to recognize the symptoms early and seek veterinary evaluation as soon as possible. However, the information found on Excited Cats should not be viewed as veterinary advice. Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene are not viable due . If you think your cat may be experiencing uremia, contact your vet right away. Breeds that score higher in this area are able to spend hours alone, while less-independent breeds require plenty of attention. Michael & Christine, Diva Kits did scam me out of a lot of money. These abnormalities are responsible for the disability that they cause from birth. Since only one parent has the mutation, the kittens can survive and be sold for a high price. If the malformations lead to secondary spinal cord compression and trauma, the affected cat will display ataxia and paresis. 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. These cats must be bred in a cruel and irresponsible manner. Munchkin cats are considered highly sociable, playful, and intelligent, Simons says. 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. 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. Keep your kitty's claws clipped to prevent damage to your belongings, and consider teaching your kitten to allow toothbrushing from a young age. In fact, breeding cats, whether munchkins or other types, can have a negative impact on pet overpopulation. The Scottish Fold Munchkin Cat is a unique and charming breed of cat that combines the features of two beloved breeds of catsthe Scottish Fold and the Munchkin. 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. Most Munchkins dont require any intervention for this deformity, though. 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. One possible genetic health problem of Munchkin kittens is a condition called lordosis, also known as tight chest. It is common for munkey cats to be born with short legs and other genetic flaws that can lead to health problems. Read more here. Lordosis is a dip in the portion of the spinal column located in front of the shoulder blades. Here are a few things you should know about Munchkin cats and where they come from. Merrikins can live for up to 12-15 years on average if properly cared for. Prentis told The Sun: Why would you want to breed a cat that effectively doesnt have any legs? [32] Because only heterozygous munchkin cats are able to pass on the gene, all litters with at least one standard (short legged) Munchkin parent have the possibility of containing kittens with the phenotypes: short-legged or normal-legged (referred to as non-standard munchkin), with the genotypes of Mm or mm, where M is the trait for short legs and m is the trait for long legs. Longhair Munchkin cats may display lynx tips. The most prevalent issue is called lordosis. Munchkin cat breeders select for this gene, which affects leg bone length. 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. For each kitten conceived from this mating, there is a 0% chance it will be homozygous for the munchkin gene, a 50% chance it will be normal non-standard (long legged) Munchkin, and a 50% chance it will be a standard (short legged) munchkin. The term pectus excavatum literally means hollow breast in Latin. Saying they can jump or run like a normal cat would be false, she says. While their short legs may make them look like theyre always dressed up for Halloween, they are actually a very friendly and affectionate breed of cat. Some worry that short legs limit Munchkin cats mobility, which is especially important for felines. They are a cute cat that can be a great pet. They have an average lifespan of 12-15 years . This condition is rare in cats, but cats with elongated and malformed spines, like Munchkins, can be at a higher risk. This practice is cruel because the cats are intentionally deformed to have these characteristics. Pflueger was also a breeder of Munchkin cats herself, having been initially sent two cats from Hochenedel. Brooke spent nine years as a veterinary assistant before becoming a human nurse in 2013. Is breeding deformity a form of animal abuse? Only kittens that are heterozygous for the munchkin gene, with only one copy, develop into viable short legged munchkin kittens. The paws should be round and compact. 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. Munchkins are prone to a congenital (present from birth) malformation called lordosis, an inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, says Simons. Ultimately, it is up to the individual cat owner to decide whether or not a munchkin cat is right for them. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. Lordosis is a genetic disorder that affects other organisms, but it has no specific symptoms to the Munchkins. Munchkin kittens are susceptible to this condition, . The little cat craves company from children, dogs, other animals, and strangers. In mild cases, IVDD is often successfully managed with pain medications, physical therapy, and steroids, although it can continue to worsen over time. The History Of Munchkin Cats: From Fictional Characters To Scottish Folds, If A Cat Meets These Criteria Then It Can Be Considered A Munchkin, Is Friskees Extra Gravy Pate Cat Food Any Good, What Is The Ash Content In Blue Wilderness Cat Food. [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. 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. However, myelography is generally the diagnostic imaging technique of choice. Although there are not many medical conditions that this breed is specifically predisposed to, there are a few that can have a significant impact on the quality of life for a cat. In cats over the age of six, hyperthyroidism is most common, and this condition is also known as metabolic syndrome. Plus they offer carrier services if you cant make it to Orlando to pick up your cutie. Because the Munchkin can develop arthritis, Simons says its important to feed them a high-quality diet with supplements to support joint health. This educational content is not veterinary advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not they believe it is cruel to keep munchkin cats. Even if your cat goes into remission, the cancer is likely to return at some point down the road. The Munchkin cat's short legs lead people who are unfamiliar with the breed to believe that these cats are very slow-moving. This cat features short legs, straight ears, and a long body. The Munchkin cats with long legs do not carry the heterozygous gene (a cell containing two different alleles). Because of its physical features, it is a breed of cat that is particularly suited to fast and agile living conditions. Munchkin cats tend to be small in size. Munchkin cats are at higher risk of this disorder developing than many other cat breeds due to their abnormal limb shape related to dwarfism. Each time you make a purchase through one of our independently-chosen links, well receive a percentage of the proceeds. https://www.mypets.net.au/munchkin-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. Featured Image: Dasha Parfenova, Shutterstock. Lordosis is the most common health issues that these cats might face. One thing is certain: Bring a Munchkin into your home, and you'll instantly fall in love with their adorable looks and charming personalities. Munchkin cats' grooming routines vary depending on their coat length. Keep an eye out for any areas they seem to be missing or unable to reach. In the world of the Munchkin cat, there is never enough company. X-rays of the spinal column (including all vertebrae) can often reveal the exact malformation. The symptoms listed can have many different causes, such as urinary stones, a urinary infection, or a urethral obstruction. For Munchkin cats, they are often especially prone to deformities of the forelimbs. Pectus Excavatum The term pectus excavatum literally means "hollow breast" in Latin. Their offspring formed the foundation for the Munchkin cat breed as we know it today. Lordosis, a genetic disorder, affects no one, but it is found in the Munchkins. The Lordosis is an exaggerated inward spine curve that's sometimes referred to as the 'Swayback.' It normally targets two back points: There's the neck region, and the area closest to the tailbone. Although the breeds lifespan is pretty typical for a cat (around 1215 years), there are health issues pet parents should watch for. Munchkin cats are the product of a genetic mutation that causes a form of dwarfism, called achondroplasia or chondrodysplasia. This condition is rare in cats, but cats with elongated and malformed spines, like Munchkins, can be at a higher risk. 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. While bathing isnt necessary, Lott says the occasional bath can help cut down on shedding, if thats a particular concern. It is not recommended to buy a munchkin cat due to the many issues that they may face. Less-intelligent breeds are less trainable but often laid-back and easygoing. Two short-legged Munchkins are unlikely to produce a litter of kittens. Just like human cancer patients, animals with lymphosarcoma are commonly treated with chemotherapy. An average lifespan of these animals is 12 to 14 years. [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 typical adult height among individuals of this breed. 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 it is true that their leaps are not as impressive as those of average sized cats, many individuals can make it from the floor to the seat of the couch or the top of your bed with ease. 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). Munchkins are prone to a congenital (present from birth) malformation called lordosis, an inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, says Simons. If your cat is showing neurological signs such as dizziness, seizures or paralysis postoperatively, restricted activity combined with physical therapy may be helpful. So, are munchkin cats that bad? As well as shorter limbs, munchkin cats are more prone to lordosis and pectus excavatum than other cats. To compensate for a genetic mutation, the Munchkin breed was born with abnormally short legs. Munchkin kittens take to litter training quickly, especially when you reward them with cat toys and treats. The condition causes pain and dysfunction as a result of osteoarthritis. However, while lymphosarcoma can be treated, like other cancers, it cannot be cured. These short cats tend to be confident and outgoing pets that have no qualms about exploring their environment and making new friends.
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