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. Two short-legged Munchkins are unlikely to produce a litter of kittens. 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. Male Munchkins typically weigh between 6 and 9 pounds (2.7 and 4.1 kg) and are usually larger than female Munchkins, which typically weigh between 4 and 8 pounds (1.8 and 3.6 kg). Ensure they are fed an Association of American Feed Control Officials-approved cat food appropriate for their life stage, she says. [16] Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene, with two copies of the gene, are not viable and do not develop in the womb. Munchkin cats are considered highly sociable, playful, and intelligent, Simons says. 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. Lordosis, a genetic disorder, affects no one, but it is found in the Munchkins. 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. 8 Reasons for This Behavior, Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. Your cat will need to revisit your veterinarian every four to six months for neurological examinations and to monitor progression of clinical signs. [6][7][8], Short-legged cats have been documented a number of times around the world since the 1940s. Feline lower urinary tract disease, or FLUTD, is a catch-all phrase for several different conditions of the urethra and bladder in cats. Lordosis in Munchkin cats occurs when the spine does not grow accordingly, giving it an inward curvature appearance. 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. But do Munchkin cats have more health issues than other cat breeds? Each time you make a purchase through one of our independently-chosen links, well receive a percentage of the proceeds. 2. 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. Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? Here are a few things you should know about Munchkin cats and where they come from. including osteoarthritis caused by lordosis, or an inward curvature of the spine, and pectus excavatum, or "funnel chest". As the cancer grows, it spreads from the lymphatic system and metastasizes into multiple parts of the body. A Munchkin cat's legs should be short, and should be set evenly apart, with the upper and lower forelegs being of equal length. 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. Pectus Excavatum The term pectus excavatum literally means "hollow breast" in Latin. [2] The Munchkin is considered to be the original breed of dwarf cat. If youre lucky you may find one for 1000 dollars but most likely it will be up to three times more expensive. 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. Munchkin kittens are susceptible to this condition, . This in turn puts pressure on the trachea, lungs and heart. 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. Why Isnt My Puppy Eating and What Can I Do About It? Below, we will go over some of the most common health problems Munchkin cats develop. Normal mm kittens will not, as they do not have a copy of the munchkin gene. If you're looking for a pet that's friendly with strangers, you might want to consider a Munchkin cat. This is uncommon in Munchkins and is not confined to short-legged cats. These kitties absolutely love their toys and they love it even more when their human companions take time out for interactive play. 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. Brooke loves all animals and currently shares a home with three dogs, two cats, five fish, and two snails. A full physical exam will be performed. Breeds with higher grooming scores require more maintenance like brushing and bathing, while lower-scored breeds are virtually maintenance-free. Munchkins are playful and kitten-like the majority of their lives, says Dawn Lott, who in addition to breeding and showing Munchkins for 23 years, serves as TICA breed chair. 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. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, intravenously, or subcutaneously. While some people believe the Munchkins short legs prevent this breed from jumping to elevated surfaces, thats not always the caseso dont assume that enticingly shiny necklace on your vanity is out of reach. However, myelography is generally the diagnostic imaging technique of choice. They generally enjoy a snuggle session, but only if theyve had the opportunity to get some energy out first. This type of behavior is not acceptable in any way from anyone who has the best interests of animals at heart. 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. Lymphoma is a type of cancer that specifically attacks the lymph nodes, which are located throughout the body. This trait is so prevalent that the breed has been nicknamed "The magpie of the cat world!". Solid colors, tabbies, harlequins, and pointed varieties are a few examples. How well the breed tends to get along with cats, dogs, and other pets. Lordosis is a genetic disorder that affects other organisms, but it has no specific symptoms to the Munchkins. The term pectus excavatum literally means hollow breast in Latin. However, while lymphosarcoma can be treated, like other cancers, it cannot be cured. Many Munchkins experience limited mobility in their spine due to a variety of factors, like their elongated back length compared to their height. You may be familiar with osteoarthritis, as it is a condition that plagues people and animals alike. The Munchkin, also known as Sausage Cat, is a breed of cat characterized by its very short legs, which are caused by genetic mutation. Kittens bearing two copies of the munchkin gene (MM) will not develop in the womb. The Average lifespan for Munchkin is 12-15 years. [25], It is not fully known how the mutation impacts the health of the breed. If youre away from the house a lot, consider getting your kitty a furry friend. This condition is rare in cats, but cats with elongated and malformed spines, like Munchkins, can be at a higher risk. Is breeding deformity a form of animal abuse? The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. Kittens bearing one munchkin gene and one normal gene (Mm) will be short-legged munchkins. If it's very bad, then a kitten may well not survive. [23], In 2014, Lilieput, a Munchkin cat from Napa, California, was named the shortest statured living cat in the world by Guinness World Records. He has a long, skinny body, walnut-shaped eyes, and triangular ears. 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. These short and thick legs are caused by a genetic mutation that reduces their height and width. Be the first to get our latest updates, insider videos, cat health resources, and more. They may have short or long hair, and they come in every color imaginable. Munchkins love to play with just about anything, Lott says. 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). 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. 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. Munchkin cats are known for their short legs and playful personalities. This greatly reduces the risk of health issues that could cause discomfort and early death. There is no definitive answer to this question. Can a Dog Take Metronidazole Without Food? This condition is typically easily managed with medication and routine lab work, but in some cases, it will continue to worsen over time, even with appropriate treatment. These kitties like just about everyone they meet and will happily hop into a newcomer's lap. The munchkin breed arose from a genetic mutation. A British veterinary report in 1944 noted four generations of short-legged cats which were similar to normal cats except for the length of the legs. [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. But is that ethical? Similarity to other breeds is grounds for disqualification. If your Munchkin shows an interest in climbing, providing them with a cat tree will save your furniture and provide your kitty with an elevated vantage point that they'll appreciate. 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! 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. That, she says, makes this breed predisposed to osteoarthritis and mobility issues. This results in shortened and often deformed limbs. . The name isnt the only adorable thing about the Munchkin. When your cat is unable to properly expel its urine, it can lead to a buildup of toxins in their bodies. The Munchkin cat is so much more than an adorable little pet: These cats are sweet natured, personable, and playful. Muckenkin cats are at risk for spinal deformities, lordosis, and scoliosis. Stay on top of dog food recalls here >, Have a question? IVDD is painful and can lead to permanent spinal damage and even paralysis. Small litter sizes when two munchkin cats are crossed indicate that embryos that are homozygous for the munchkin gene are non-viable. Secondary damage due to spinal compression may be avoided if surgical intervention takes place early on. Check on Facebook there are also good reputable breeders on line. Cat Nail Biting: What to Do If Your Cat Chews & Pulls His Claws, Why Is My Kitten So Hyper? It should taper and have a rounded end. A post shared by KangHaelee (@haeleebeme). Lordosis is a rare spinal condition whereby the muscles in the spine do not grow to full length. One TICA judge even resigned because of the questionable ethics of breeding a cat with a genetic deformity intentionally. However, Munchkins do not shed more than your typical cat. [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). Your vet will examine your cat and consider its symptoms in order to determine the cause of your cats FLUTD and come up with a suitable treatment plan. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. Aside from these serious health issues, the cat may also suffer from lower urinary tract disease or hyperthyroidism. Muckenkin cats can develop spinal deformities such as lordosis and scoliosis, among other issues. Stay on top of cat food recalls here >, Have a dog? If your Munchkin has a short coat, then you'll want to brush them just once or twice per week to remove any loose hair. Fecal and urinary incontinence are common, as well as constipation and urinary tract infections. The Cat or You? Be aware that, while most Munchkins have little to no trouble getting around like other felines, the mutation that causes their short legs can lead to other health issues. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cats lower back. Allowing, Self-awareness in animals is often seen as a sign of intelligence, and it is something that scientists have looked at, https://www.ufaw.org.uk/cats/munchkin-limb-deformity, https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-are-the-health-and-welfare-issues-associated-with-exaggerated-physical-features-in-cats/, https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/ivdd-in-cats/#:~:text=IVDD%20happens%20when%20discs%20become,out%20of%20a%20high%20window, https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_ct_spinal_malformations, https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1098612X13514975?journalCode=jfma. Lordosis and pectus excavatum are two of the most common forms of chest pain. Medications to soften the feces, an easily digestible diet, and occasional treatment with antibiotics is standard for some cats with spinal malformations. The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. Munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum, or a concave chest. talk to a vet online for advice >. Controversial Munchkin cats may be trendyto some people who find them cute, but is it cruel to breed cats with genetic deformities intentionally? Not all Munchkin cats are bred into existence by humans. However, some cats will experience recurrence of symptoms regardless of treatment. Lordosis is the most common health issues that these cats might face. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. To keep them safe, keep them indoors if they have difficulty climbing stairs or staying up tall. [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. 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. [4], The Munchkin has similar characteristics to normal domestic cats, due to their frequent use as outcrosses. Your vet is likely to recommend multiple different approaches to treat your cats osteoarthritis, such as weight management, medication, dietary supplements, physical therapy, and environmental modifications. Whether you have an active house filled with pets and children or live a quiet life alone, the Munchkin cat can be a tremendous companion. Medicine often does not resolve neurological manifestations of spinal and vertebral malformations. 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. The Munchkin cat breed is relatively new, although individual cats with shorter than average legs have been noted and even encouraged throughout history. 3. . In severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary to maintain quality of life. They have an average lifespan of 12-15 years . The munchkin gene is an autosomal dominant one. . The Cat Fanciers Association, which does not recognize the Munchkin, considers the Bambino experimental and discourages the breed. Munchkin cats are most commonly identified by their short legs and long bodies. Pancreatitis is characterized by inflammation of your cats pancreas. 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. However, these are not a health concern free cat breed. Well, there is no definitive answer, as opinions seem to vary quite a bit on this topic. Because the Munchkin can develop arthritis, Simons says its important to feed them a high-quality diet with supplements to support joint health. If you want one with rare coat colors and a champion bloodline, they will charge between $2,000 and $3,000. The Munchkin is a small to medium-sized cat (males are slightly larger than females), typically weighing between 5-10 pounds. The name "munchkin" derives from writer L. Frank Baum's diminutive inhabitants of Munchkin Country, originating in the 1900 novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. 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. This condition often occurs in Munchkins, and short spinal muscles characterize it due to the short legs and long bodies. They called the new breed bambino (the Italian word for "baby"). The Munchkin cats short legs are the subject of some controversy, as the mutation that leads to their shortened limbs causes a defect in cartilage formation, says Paula Simons, DVM, an emergency and critical care resident at Cornell University Veterinary Specialists. These short cats tend to be confident and outgoing pets that have no qualms about exploring their environment and making new friends. The breed's story begins in 1983, when a female cat was rescued in Louisiana. It's very important to note that breeding one Munchkin cat to another Munchkin cat can lead to serious health problems in the offspring. Their mobility, for the most part, isnt terribly affected by having shorter legs. However, there is always a chance that one or more of these health problems could develop over time: Lordosis Uremia Hyperthyroidism Polycystic Kidney Disease Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) 1. They are affectionate animals that can be kept with both children and other pets. Their offspring formed the foundation for the Munchkin cat breed as we know it today. Munchkin cats are at higher risk of this disorder developing than many other cat breeds due to their abnormal limb shape related to dwarfism. Absolutely! How to Get Cat Poop Stains Out of the Couch: 4 Stain Remover Options, Why Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet? Look for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the abdomen, lack of appetite, and lethargy. The Munchkin cat is a fun-loving cat who enjoys interacting with kids, other cats, and even dogs. Your Munchkin cat might not need a super tall cat tree, but they need a few scratchers, particularly those that are close to the ground and within easy reach. Breeds that score higher in this area are able to spend hours alone, while less-independent breeds require plenty of attention. 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. There is a lot of controversy surrounding the breeding of Munchkin cats since it is intentionally breeding a genetic deformity into the kittens. The short-haired variety has a medium-plush coat while the long-haired has a semi-long silky coat. You might liken the Munchkin cat to one of the hot dog dog breeds such as the Dachshund. Critics predicted that the breed would develop back, hip and leg problems similar to those that plague some Dachshunds. Munchkin cats have limited mobility compared to other breeds. This condition causes compression of the heart, says Simons. People breeding cats for their looks and charm are common reasons for doing so. Although not a disorder within itself, decreased mobility impacts a large number of Munchkin cats. It depends on who you ask. Michael & Christine, Diva Kits did scam me out of a lot of money. Congenital spinal and vertebral malformations are most often genetically inherited (as opposed to adverse conditions during fetal development). Some worry that short legs limit Munchkin cats mobility, which is especially important for felines. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. Sure they may look cute to some. However, it is important to be aware of the signs of this condition, as it can be fatal if left untreated. The goal of the game is to be the first to reach the finish line, and along the way, players will need to collect items and battle enemies. 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. There may be variations depending on geographical location, coat color, and other factors. Vincent The Cat Gets Rare Prosthetic Leg Impants, monitoring_string = "44e5bb901650ec61e9e0af1ff1bef5fe". They are described as having ferret-like movements due to their fast speed and location low to the ground. We currently dont list any partical breeders on the site. Munchkin cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however it is best to offer a high-protein diet. Some breeders believe Lordosis in Munchkin cats results from the defective gene causing the short legs. Your email address will not be published. Because a Munchkin is a short-legd cat, it can be bred with other cat breeds to create a new variety of munchkin. Heres What To Do, Answered by Dr. Olivia Speight, BVSc MRCVS (Vet). The little cat craves company from children, dogs, other animals, and strangers. Lordosis Pectus Excavatum Hypochondroplasia Osteoarthritis Minor Conditions: Gingivitis: A common gum disease in cats that causes redness and swelling of the gums. Cats with this condition, known as mollusks, show signs of disorganization and behavior as if they were other cats. 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. X-rays will be retaken with each follow-up visit as well. Lott says the average price for a Munchkin cat is typically $1,000$1,500. They live for chases and catnip mice, and theyll never refuse a warm lap as long as they can get their paws on one. Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye condition that progresses throughout a cats life, eventually leading to blindness. They thrive in households with children as well as other pets. Uremia is usually accompanied by a kidney injury or an obstruction of your cats urinary tubes. Widening the gene pool can reduce these problem. In the earliest stages of this disease, your Munchkin may begin to experience difficulty with visual acuity at night and in low light situations. [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". Is there an available list to look at? 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.

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