Munchkin Shorthair

The Munchkin Shorthair is characterized by canine loyalty. It is a good-natured and affectionate cat. It adapts well to new environments and people, and it tolerates moves well. A movable pet loves to play and be the center of attention. The cat has the warmest relationships with children.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The origin of the breed is thought to be in 1980. The history of the Munchkin began in Louisiana, USA. A resident of Rayville by the name of Sandra Hochnedel found a stray kitten under a van. The woman mistook the cat’s short limbs for the effects of an illness. A blackberry that was the pet’s name later gave offspring with similarly short legs. Sandra gave one of the kittens to a friend, who began breeding the cat. Things went so well that a separate breed called the Munchkin soon emerged.

The cat owes its name to the fictional tiny Munchkin people from Baum’s The Wizard of Oz. The pet became so popular after an exhibition in New York City, which took place in 1991. The Munchkin became known as the “dachshund cat” or “basset cat”. Four years later, the breed was recognized by the International Cat Association.

Appearance

The Munchkin blatantly stands out from other cats. Its limbs are two to three times shorter with its normal body length than those of other breeds. At the same time, the mutation does not affect the spine in any way. There are two variations in hair length.

The head of the short-haired Munchkin is wedge-shaped and in proportion to the body. The flat forehead moves smoothly into a medium-length nose. The cat’s eyes are almond-shaped and far apart. The ears are set high and wide, rounded at the edges.

The pet’s back is sloped toward the tail. The hips are firm, the chest is rounded, and the musculature is developed. The hind limbs may be slightly longer than the front. The tail of the cat is thin, equal to body length. The coat is short, smooth, and silky. The color can be any color.

Character

The Munchkin Shorthair is characterized by canine loyalty. It is a good-natured and affectionate cat. It adapts well to new environments and people, and it tolerates moves well. A movable pet loves to play and be the center of attention. The cat has the warmest relationships with children.

The Munchkin gets along with dogs and other animals without problems. The sociable pet loves to be in human company. He will meet new guests with curiosity.

Care

The Munchkin Shorthair is a real house pet. Because of its short limbs and small size, it is not adapted to life outside. For comfortable living, equip the cat with a cat house or basket. The litter box should have high sides so that the pet can bury its waste.

A short coat does not require thorough care. It is enough to comb it once a week. Do not bathe your pet often, about once every two to four months. Use a special shampoo. Be sure to monitor the health of the cat’s ears and eyes. Remove secretions from them in time.

Education

The Munchkin Shorthair is an intelligent and shrewd cat. Problems in accustoming the cat to the litter box usually do not arise. It is best to start training the cat from a young age. Early socialization is an important factor in the development of the Munchkin.

If you wish, you can train a curious kitten. Start with the simplest things and be patient and forgiving. Don’t yell at him if he can’t do something. Motivate him appropriately. Give him treats for following commands.

Common Diseases

The Munchkin Shorthair has a strong immune system. Genetic abnormalities do not characterize it. However, the breed is susceptible to the following diseases:

• hypochondroplasia;
• hyperthyroidism;
• pancreatitis;
• lordosis;
• uremia;
• lymphosarcoma.

To avoid obesity, watch your cat’s diet and don’t overfeed him. Don’t forget to take your cat to the vet and get him vaccinated.

Nutrition

A mobile cat needs to eat a lot of protein. It is contained in sufficient quantities in meat and fermented dairy products. The first should be cooked and not fatty. Varieties such as chicken, turkey, beef will do. It is not recommended to feed the cat only meat.

Sometimes you can give your pet saltwater fish and eggs. Porridges and boiled vegetables will also be helpful. The nutrition of the Munchkin Shorthair can consist of premium industrial food. They include all the necessary vitamins and minerals. But spicy, smoked, and sweet food should be excluded from the diet of the pet. Fatty and fried food is also contraindicated.