Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.
Your Pet, Our Passion.
Munchkin

Munchkin

The Munchkin cat breed is a medium-sized cat with extremely short legs and a long spine. The Munchkin cats’ movements are described as that of a ferret, so it does not have the feline grace of longer-legged cats. They have a thick body with a well-rounded chest. The breed may have long or short hair. Both varieties have plush, all-weather coats with a silky appearance. The longhair Munchkin has a plumed tail. Munchkin cats can be in any colour or coat pattern and their walnut-shaped eyes can be of any colour.

The need-to-know
  • Playful and curious cat
  • Sociable and dependent cat
  • Quiet cat
  • Average build cat breed
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Indoor cat
  • May require familiarisation before living with children

Personality

Munchkin cats are sweet and outgoing. Their curiosity and playfulness continue well into adulthood. The Munchkin cat breed is sociable and enjoys company. They can be taught to play fetch and to obey voice commands. While Munchkin cats can leap on countertops, many prefer to intelligently find an easier way up. They can also run fast, despite their short legs.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: USA

Seen as the feline equivalent of the Dachshund, this breed has caused controversy in the cat world. The Munchkin cat mutation was discovered in America in 1983 where it was named after the 'little people' in The Wizard of Oz. Short-legged cats like the Munchkin cat, were reported in England in the 1930s and in Russia in the 1950s but these breeds were not perpetuated.

Finding a cat

Two cats sitting on a sofa with a red cushion
Finding a pet
Is this the right breed for you?
All cats have their own unique personality! Try our Cat Breed Selector tool and find out which cat breeds better match your preferences and lifestyle.
Two cats lying on the sofa
Finding a pet
Thinking about getting a cat?
What breed would you like? Can you handle the challenges of a cheeky kitten, or would a calmer senior cat suit your lifestyle more?
Cat laying on the red pillow
Finding a pet
Finding a good breeder
If your heart is set on a pedigree kitten, then your best bet is to find a reputable breeder. Find out what to look for in a kitten breeder with this guide.
Cat laying in woman's arms
Finding a pet
Bringing your cat home
While you're waiting for the big day you may need to distract yourself, so luckily there are a few things you need to sort our before you welcome your new arrival.
Cat looking at the owner
Adoption
It's incredibly fulfilling to adopt a cat from an animal shelter or rescue organisation. It often means offering them a second chance at life. There are many cats waiting for a loving family and their forever home, but what can you expect from the process?
Ginger kitten sitting on woman's shoulder
Kitten advice
Everything you need to know
Getting a new kitten is incredibly exciting for all the family, but it can be quite scary for your new arrival. Find out how to deal with everything from behaviour to health questions with our expert kitten advice.
Cat laying in bed
Finding a pet
Cat facts you need to know
Many households in the region own a cat, but there’s still so much that we don’t know about them.