Thanks to a genetic mutation, an adorable breed called Munchkin Cats was brought into our lives. Because of their short legs, they have a kitten-like appearance throughout their lifetime. Here are 11 Munchkin Cat facts you need to know!
11. The Breed’s Name Is Derived From the Wizard of Oz
Anyone who’s watched the film or read the novel The Wizard of Oz is familiar with the name Munchkin. It’s the name that writer L. Frank Baum gave to the diminutive inhabitants of his fictional land of Oz and it’s the inspiration from which this cat breed draws its name.
10. The Munchkin Cat Breed Is at Least 100 Years Old
Although it wasn’t until 2003 that Munchkin cats were recognized and the breed achieved champion status, they’ve been around for at least 100 years. Veterinarians in Europe documented the characteristics of munchkin cats back in the 1930s. The cause of the short legs was identified as a gene mutation affecting the bones in feline legs.
9. Munchkin Cats Have Different Leg Sizes
Not all Munchkin cats are alike when it comes to leg lengths! Munchkin leg lengths are referred to with nicknames like “rug-hugger,” which is the shortest. There is also “super-short.” The “standard” has a normal leg length, which 25-30% of a litter may have. Up to 50-66% of a litter can be short-legged.
8. Munchkin Cats Can’t Jump Like Other Cats
With their short legs, it should come as no surprise that Munchkin cats can’t jump like other cats. However, some cat owners may appreciate the limitations short legs impose on their jumping abilities. A Munchkin cat may not be able to jump onto your high kitchen cabinets or bookshelves.
7. Munchkin Cats Perch on Their Hind Legs
Much like rabbits, ferrets, and meerkats, Munchkin cats like to perch on their back legs. Russians called Munchkin cats “Stalingrad kangaroo cats” because of their way of sitting. Because Munchkins have hind legs longer than their front legs, it allows them to perch this way. It gives Munchkins the ability to see whatever sparks their interest.
6. Munchkin Cats are Fast and Agile
Just because Munchkin cats have short legs doesn’t mean their speed or agility are limited. Munchkin cats are exceptionally high-energy felines and possess extraordinary speed. They hover close to the ground, giving them ample traction for running. Munchkins can zip around tight corners as if they’re attached to a rail.
5. Munchkin Cats Are Extra Curious
Everyone knows cats are curious creatures. However, Munchkin cats have a super-sized level of curiosity. You’ll find them exploring every nook and cranny in your home. Their curiosity is how Munchkins express their natural instincts to hunt and escape predators. However, extra care must be taken to ensure their curiosity doesn’t cause them harm.
4. Munchkin Cats Like to Hoard Stuff
Much like rats and magpies, Munchkin cats have a reputation for collecting and hoarding things. They like to steal, hide, and hoard shiny objects. Therefore, if you have or plan on getting a Munchkin cat, be sure to hide any shiny objects around your house, especially your gold and silver ones.
3. Munchkin Cats Are Record-Setting
In 2013, “Lilieput,” a 9-year-old female munchkin cat set a record and won an award for being the shortest Cat in the World. Lilieput was measured at 5.25 inches in height (13.34 centimeters). No other cat in the world has broken that record to date. Lilieput was a tortoiseshell Munchkin adopted as a stray at age 2.
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2. Several Countries Ban Breeding Munchkin Cats
The Munchkin cat has an autosomal dominant gene, also known as the “lethal gene” that can result in a litter of nonviable kittens. Several countries, including the Netherlands and Australia, designate Munchkins cats as “malformed animals,” banning breeding of them as “unacceptable” due to “genetic health problems associated with such breeding.”
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1. Two Munchkin Cats Shouldn’t Be Mated
Munchkin cats have complicated genetics and the gene mutation is dominant. Therefore, two munchkins should not be mated. The chances of offspring dying if two munchkins mate can be 25% or higher. To produce healthy kittens, munchkin cats should only be bred with breeds that have normal genetics and leg size.
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