The energetic Munchkin Cat is characterised by its short legs. This is the result of a natural genetic condition called achondroplastic dwarfism, which only affects the long bones of the legs. This breed was only discovered in 1983 and was named after the Munchkin characters from the film The Wizard of Oz.

Thanks to the Munchkin’s flexible spine, this short-legged feline doesn’t seem as prone to back problems as its canine counterpart the Dachshund. Nonetheless, the breed is still somewhat controversial among cat fanciers.

Munchkins are small to medium-sized cats, reaching a height of 18-20 cm and weighing 2.2 to 4 kg. Their front legs are only about 7.5 cm long, their rear legs slightly longer.

Because Munchkin cats are outcrossed to domestics, which exist in various shapes, colours and sizes, the Munchkin breed also comes in almost every coat colour and pattern and can be long or short-haired.
Munchkins have a sweet facial expression which reflects their lovely character.

This breed is playful, sociable and can behave like kittens well into adulthood. They are strong and can run and jump without problems, despite their size. Munchkins get along well with other pets and with people and kids.

The Munchkin is a healthy breed without specific ailments. However, the gene responsible for their dwarfism is dominant and more than one copy is lethal, so you cannot breed two Munchkins. The average lifespan of a Munchkin Cat is 12 to 14 years.