Short in stature and big in personality – the Munchkin cat breed has extraordinarily short legs, a chubby body and a playful, affectionate nature
The Munchkin cat is the feline equivalent of the sausage dog, with very short legs and a long back. It can have a variety of coat colours and can be both long-haired and short-haired. This unique breed originated from a natural genetic mutation maintained through selective breeding. It emerged about forty years ago in the state of New York. Although there are historical references to similar cats in England and Russia before World War II, it was not until 1983 that they reappeared in the United States.
Munchkins have small, almond-shaped eyes and generally weigh about three kilos, with males being slightly larger. They are essentially dwarf cats with compact, chubby bodies and rounded chests. Due to their short legs, they barely stand fifteen centimetres tall (twenty-five centimetres at most), and their movements are very similar to those of a ferret. There are two types of Munchkin cats with different leg lengths: the Super Short (5 to 7 cm) and Rug Hugger (no more than 5 cm).
Munchkins can be any colour, with white, chocolate, cream, blue, or black coats the most common. Short-haired Munchkins have a velvety, fluffy coat, while long-haired Munchkins can adapt to any climate.
Personality-wise, sausage cats are known for being sweet, affectionate, outgoing, incredibly curious, and very playful, even as adults. Munchkin kittens will always try to snuggle up close to you or your family, eager for attention. They are highly social and respond so well to human companionship that they can even be taught to fetch and obey simple commands. This sociable nature means they adapt easily to homes that already have pets, such as dogs or other cats.
Munchkin cats are generally low-maintenance. However, short-haired Munchkins require weekly grooming, while long-haired ones need to be brushed every three days to keep their coats healthy. Their diet is similar to that of other cats; they are carnivores and can be fed commercial cat food tailored to their age and weight. Despite their small size, Munchkins have a long lifespan, often living up to fifteen years.
If you’ve fallen in love with these little cats and are considering adding a Munchkin cat to the family, be sure to research reputable breeders who specialise in this breed and consider adopting from a shelter or rescue organisation.
