Leave the cat alone.. Brooke loves all animals and currently shares a home with three dogs, two cats, five fish, and two snails. 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. [2] The Munchkin is considered to be the original breed of dwarf cat. 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. If it's very bad, then a kitten may well not survive. If the malformations lead to secondary spinal cord compression and trauma, the affected cat will display ataxia and paresis. . Keep your munchkin cats litter box clean to avoid additional health issues, and make sure to feed them a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Hepper.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. In fact, breeding cats, whether munchkins or other types, can have a negative impact on pet overpopulation. In Munchkins, this deformity is due to their front legs being shorter than their back legs. 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. [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], In 1983, Sandra Hochenedel, a music teacher in Rayville, Louisiana, found two pregnant cats who had been chased under a truck by a dog. [10] However, the breed would not be officially recognized at that time. Coping with Pet Allergies, Cornell University Veterinary Specialists, Association of American Feed Control Officials-approved cat food. Critics claimed that these cats can suffer from back and hip problems similar to those experienced by short-legged dog breeds. You might liken the Munchkin cat to one of the hot dog dog breeds such as the Dachshund. This can lead to damage and pain from the nerves of the spinal cord being pressed on. If the vet tells you that the cat has Lordosis towards the neck region, he or she will be talking about Cervical Lordosis. Lordosis, or the common cold, can pose a serious threat to these lovely little animals, so it is imperative that everyone who owns them vaccinates them against this distemper. Munchkin cats do not have specific nutritional requirements, Simons says. talk to a vet online for advice >. Munchkin are long-haired cats, so you do have to expect a certain amount of shedding from this breed, but they don't shed as much as other cat breeds. Lordosis Pectus Excavatum Hypochondroplasia Osteoarthritis Minor Conditions: Gingivitis: A common gum disease in cats that causes redness and swelling of the gums. As the cancer grows, it spreads from the lymphatic system and metastasizes into multiple parts of the body. Homozygous embryos for the munchkin gene are not viable due . Due to their unique posture, this breed is prone to a few skeletal malformations as it ages. If youre away from the house a lot, consider getting your kitty a furry friend. 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. 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. However, it is important to be aware of the signs of this condition, as it can be fatal if left untreated. Despite their short legs, they are extremely vulnerable to health problems. Munchkin cats are a relatively new breed of cat, having only been around since the 1980s. 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! Heres What To Do, Answered by Dr. Olivia Speight, BVSc MRCVS (Vet). So, are munchkin cats that bad? However, some cats will experience recurrence of symptoms regardless of treatment. It depends on who you ask. 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. Over time, the cat will experience a progressive loss of visual acuity until blindness sets in. There are cats who live for up to 15 years, but some older ones have health issues that shorten their life span. [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. Shorthaired Munchkins have plush, soft coats. Your cat will need to revisit your veterinarian every four to six months for neurological examinations and to monitor progression of clinical signs. 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. Because the Munchkin cat is a rare breed, it is in high demand. However, the information found on Excited Cats should not be viewed as veterinary advice. Feet should be pointed straightforward, not pronated inward or outward. This can be extremely difficult for an animal, and it can be difficult for them to understand or even know if they are ill. See also: Munchkin Cat Facts: 8 Amazing Things You Didnt Know, Featured Image Credit: SV_zt, Shutterstock, 4 Homemade Grain-Free Cat Treat Recipes (Vet Approved). A munchkin cat is a short-legged cat breed. The hind legs can be slightly longer than the front which creates a slight rise from the shoulder to the rump. The short-haired variety has a medium-plush coat while the long-haired has a semi-long silky coat. Ultimately, it is up to the individual cat owner to decide whether or not a munchkin cat is right for them. In the mildest cases, lordosis can cause shortness of breath. Are Munchkin cats cute? 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. Munchkins are prone to a congenital (present from birth) malformation called lordosis, an inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, says Simons. A full physical exam will be performed. 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. Lott says the average price for a Munchkin cat is typically $1,000$1,500. This type of behavior is not acceptable in any way from anyone who has the best interests of animals at heart. In mild cases, IVDD is often successfully managed with pain medications, physical therapy, and steroids, although it can continue to worsen over time. This is especially important given that short-legged cats such as Munchkins and Munchkin mixes are prone to spinal issues such as lordosis. However, Munchkins do not shed more than your typical cat. You will need to give your veterinarian a thorough history of your cat's health and onset of symptoms. Munchkin cats may not be able to jump high, but they are surprisingly nimble and agile on ground level. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that results in the breakdown of the tissues in your cats joints, such as the bone and cartilage. This causes the breastbone to sink in. A fully grown Munchkin cat might weigh between 4-9 pounds or more and range in height anywhere from about 6"-9" inches tall. 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. 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. Pectus excavatum is a deformity of the cartilage of the sternum and ribs. Lordosis and pectus excavatum are two of the most common forms of chest pain. 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). It is a short-legged breed of cat similar to dachshunds. As well as shorter limbs, munchkin cats are more prone to lordosis and pectus excavatum than other cats. The short legs of the Munchkin cat, for example, have a dominant genetic mutation that contributes to their short stature. orally, intravenously, or subcutaneously. In the earliest stages of this disease, your Munchkin may begin to experience difficulty with visual acuity at night and in low light situations. 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). Your email address will not be published. Possibly, exposure of pregnant queens to: Compounds causing birth defects during fetal development. 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. . Munchkin cats are the product of a genetic mutation that causes a form of dwarfism, called achondroplasia or chondrodysplasia. Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat. There are certain health conditions associated with Munchkin cats including arthritis and lordosis but breeders argue that these are not breed-specific. Mild causes of pectus excavatum may show no clinical signs, whereas severe cases lead to cardiac and respiratory issues. 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. Lordosis is a condition that is characterized by a curving spine in your cat's lower back. In fact, the opposite is true: Munchkin cats are capable of running at high speeds. Munchkins love to play with just about anything, Lott says. They are also expensive, and both breeders and scammers have taken advantage of that fact. [15] Several cat registries do not recognize the Munchkin: Fdration Internationale Fline, which refuses to recognize what they consider a breed based on a "genetic disease", achondroplasia. It's very important to note that breeding one Munchkin cat to another Munchkin cat can lead to serious health problems in the offspring. Even if your cat goes into remission, the cancer is likely to return at some point down the road. Secondary damage due to spinal compression may be avoided if surgical intervention takes place early on. The first known records of a short-legged cat date back to 1944. [22], TICA Standards describe the Munchkin as "outgoing, intelligent, and responds well to being handled". It also comes in a long-haired variety, which is shown in a separate Munchkin Longhair category. They thrive in households with children as well as other pets. The Munchkin cat's short legs lead people who are unfamiliar with the breed to believe that these cats are very slow-moving. An average lifespan of these animals is 12 to 14 years. Their mobility, for the most part, isnt terribly affected by having shorter legs. Many people deliberately breed cats like this because they believe they are cute and adorable. Pflueger was also a breeder of Munchkin cats herself, having been initially sent two cats from Hochenedel. Keep an eye out for any areas they seem to be missing or unable to reach. If they experience whisker fatigue with a bowl, a flat plate or mat may be preferable for some cats. In cats, lymphosarcoma occurs commonly in the intestines, chest, and kidneys. Munchkins are prone to a congenital (present from birth) malformation called lordosis, an inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, says Simons. This practice is cruel because the cats are intentionally deformed to have these characteristics. Kittens bearing two normal genes (mm) will be normal. Veterinarians often recommend a mix of wet food (which can help kitties stay hydrated) and dry kibble (to help reduce tartar buildup on their teeth). [4][36] Diagnosis of osteoarthritis and the assessment of its severity for a cat may require radiography. When two munchkin cats are crossed and small litter sizes occur, this indicates that embryos that are homozygous for the munchkin gene are non-viable.[32]. Spaying and neutering is strongly recommended for these animals. They tend to have a relatively thick body and round chest. If a person sincerely cared for their animals, he or she would not intentionally deform them in this manner. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. We do our best to help you better understand your cats, but the information on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Shes the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. 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. These kitties like just about everyone they meet and will happily hop into a newcomer's lap. Miniature examples of the Munchkin breed can cost between $500 and $1500, but exhibition quality examples can cost up to $2000. This kitten was named Toulouse, and was eventually bred back to Blackberry. Absolutely! Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? Inflammation, infection, urinary obstruction, diet, and behavioral issues are all possible causes of lower urinary tract disease. While this condition can be successfully treated, it is important that it is caught early. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be helpful, and are in some cases much more sensitive than X-rays. It involves the spine excessively curving inwards . 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. When your cat is unable to properly expel its urine, it can lead to a buildup of toxins in their bodies. 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. Lordosis is a spinal condition in which the spinal muscles grow too thin, giving a kitten the appearance of being short. However, it certainly doesnt make them healthier and provides them with no specific advantages. It is especially prevalent in male cats. This causes the breastbone to sink in. While all Munchkins have limb deformities to some degree, some experience significant difficulties with mobility because of it. [4], Many pedigree cat associations around the world have refused to recognize the Munchkin cat due to the welfare of the breed and severity of the health issues.[4]. The paws should be round and compact. 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. Breeds with higher intelligence ratings are more curious, investigative, and easy to train. 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. Simons recommends that all cats, Munchkins included, be brushed weekly. 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. The term pectus excavatum literally means hollow breast in Latin. Congenital spinal and vertebral malformations are most often genetically inherited (as opposed to adverse conditions during fetal development). Is breeding deformity a form of animal abuse? Spinal malformations are usually evident at birth or in the first few weeks of life. Munchkin cats are not a new breed, but they have only recently been accepted by some cat registries. Specifically, this term refers to a defect in which an animals sternum and ribs grow improperly. We currently dont list any partical breeders on the site. There are numerous colors and patterns available, and the coat can be short, long, or medium-long, or it can be silky and short. Comb short-haired Munchkins once a week. Some Munchkins have been found to have a skeletal condition called thoracic lordosis, though this condition (affecting the back, chest, heart and lungs). This then allows the spine to 'collapse slightly' and curve into the body. The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. First hitting the market in 1991, Scottish Fold Munchkin cats were developed by crossbreeding a Scottish Fold and a munchkin cat. While these cats may look cute, their adorable, stout physique may come at a price. Merrikins can live for up to 12-15 years on average if properly cared for. [11] For many years, the Munchkin breed was not accepted in feline competitions due to the controversial breeding. 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. The eyes should be walnut shaped and should be wide enough apart to provide an open, alert expression. Check out diva kits Scottish Fold Munchkins she is legit but you may have to wait for your kitty. This cat is not concerned about its unusual appearance because it is confident and outgoing. The Munchkin cats with long legs do not carry the heterozygous gene (a cell containing two different alleles). ExcitedCats is reader-supported. These cute cats have full-grown bodies with petite legs, making them an adorable feline. Uremia is usually accompanied by a kidney injury or an obstruction of your cats urinary tubes. If you have a long-haired Munchkin cat, daily grooming is essential. [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. The short legs of the Munchkin cat come from a dominant genetic mutation. Do Munchkin Cats Have More Health Problems Than Other Cats? In experiencing a decrease in spinal mobility, many of these cats lack the ability to properly groom themselves, leading to poor coat and skin health. 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. 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. Munchkin cats are a relatively new cat breed that are loving, playful companions but can also present health issues. They generally enjoy a snuggle session, but only if theyve had the opportunity to get some energy out first. Based on the name, you may be able to guess that this condition has to do with your cats chest. When this occurs, it leads to compression of the internal organs. Medications to soften the feces, an easily digestible diet, and occasional treatment with antibiotics is standard for some cats with spinal malformations. They have an average lifespan of 12-15 years . These kitties absolutely love their toys and they love it even more when their human companions take time out for interactive play. Munchkin cats actually have a relatively long life expectancy. Longhair Munchkin cats may display lynx tips. Munchkin cats are also susceptible to pectus excavatum, or a concave chest. including osteoarthritis caused by lordosis, or an inward curvature of the spine, and pectus excavatum, or "funnel chest". Hyperthyroidism is most common in older cats and is characterized by an increased appetite in combination with weight loss. Chemotherapy, surgery, and immune suppression are often successfully used to treat lymphoma in cats. Lott says Munchkins are a smart, trainable breed. 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? If the condition is severe and untreatable, euthanasia should be considered. For Munchkin cats, they are often especially prone to deformities of the forelimbs. 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. Munchkin Ragdolls are a relatively new breed of cat, and as such, they may not have any of these health problems. Lordosis in Munchkin cats occurs when the spine does not grow accordingly, giving it an inward curvature appearance.

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