Munchkin cat

Munchkin
An adolescent Munchkin kitten
OriginUnited States
Breed standards
TICAstandard
Otherhttps://wcf.de/pdf-en/breed/MNS_en_2021-12-08.pdf
Domestic cat (Felis catus)

The Munchkin is a breed of cat characterized by its very short legs, which are caused by a genetic mutation. Compared to many other cat breeds, it is a relatively new breed, documented since 1940s[1] and officially recognized in 1991.[2] The Munchkin is considered to be the original breed of dwarf cat.

Much controversy erupted over the breed when it was recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1997 with critics voicing concerns over potential health and mobility issues.[3] Many pedigree cat associations around the world have refused to recognize the Munchkin cat due to the welfare of the breed and uncertainty of the health issues,[4] including the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF).[5] Breeding of Munchkin cats is prohibited by law in several countries due to these genetic health concerns.

The name derives from writer L. Frank Baum's diminutive inhabitants of Munchkin Country, originating in the 1900 novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.[6][7][8]

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference TICAintro was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Cite error: The named reference Fitzroy was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  3. ^ "Vets warn trend for sausage cats is cruel". Metro UK. January 31, 2017. Retrieved April 14, 2020.
  4. ^ Cite error: The named reference :1 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  5. ^ Cite error: The named reference GCCF was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  6. ^ "Munchkin & Midget Cat Breed Facts". www.petmd.com. petMD, LLC.
  7. ^ Nunn, Lyn. "Munchkin Cats - Origin and History". Cat Breeds Junction. Retrieved December 8, 2017.
  8. ^ Fawcett, Kirstin (June 3, 2016). "7 Short Facts About Munchkin Cats". Mental Floss. Retrieved December 8, 2017.