Munchkin

Munchkin cat breed belongs to non-breeding. You cannot confuse it with any other, because animals have very short and neat paws, which makes them look like a dachshund. Dachshund cats were bred as a result of random mutation. Currently, the munchkin breed is gaining popularity among cat lovers due to its unusual appearance and character.

Munchkin cat: history

About short-footed cats became known in the 1930s. in England. It was in this country that 4 generations of cats with short legs were obtained, but after World War II they practically disappeared. As it turned out, a number of animals survived in the USSR.

The ancestor of the breed is considered to be a stray cat with short legs, picked up in 1983 in the USA. The same short-legged kittens appeared in her offspring, giving rise to a new breed. As an official breed, the Macchini was recognized in 1985 in the USA.

In Europe, the breed appeared only in 1993, becoming one of the most popular and common among domestic cats. The munchkins reached Russia only in the early 21st century.

Interestingly, the cats got their name thanks to the eponymous characters in the book The Wizard of Oz, where the magical people of small stature were called Munchkins.

Breed features

Munchkin appearance resembles dachshund dogs. There is no single standard for these cats. Eye color, tail length, color, coat length and head shape are the individual characteristics of each member of the breed. This is the special charm of these cats, making them different from each other.

The only thing that unites munchkins is the length of the paws, which is 1/3 shorter than that of an ordinary cat. Limbs can be standardized in 3 sizes: super-short, short and standard. Due to the short legs, pets can not jump high, so the owners do not have to worry about the fragile items on the shelves and the food on the kitchen table.

Body weight is not more than 4 kg. The ears of the breed are strictly erect and triangular. Eyes - wide and large, may not match the basic color. The limbs and torso have a developed and strong system of muscles.

Munchkin Behavior and Character

Dachshund cats are very sociable, curious and confident. They are perfectly adapted to new conditions and do not feel discomfort due to the unusual structure of the body. The nature of the munchkins varies depending on the genetic set, since this is the only breed that has different personality portraits. But in general, cats of this breed are people-oriented and attached to the same owner.

Almost all munchkins are energetic, agile and maneuverable. Most cats of this breed are clean and very tidy. They love to hunt, easy to climb trees, jump on low surfaces and love to walk on a leash. Some cats can even be trained and after a while they can execute the command "Voice!". But this is an individual feature, not a feature of the breed.

In some cats, taxies develop a "complex of magpies." They are happy to hide objects that they like in a secluded place. Munchkins are known for their love for small children's toys, so you should limit the entrance of pets to the nursery.

Despite the fact that these cats cannot jump high, they deftly climb around curtains, beds, tables and chairs. The Manchkina quickly become attached to their owner, show affection and get along with other animals in the apartment. Cats of this breed love small children, they can tolerate squeezing, pulling the tail and strong hugs.

Cat-dachshund: care features

1. These cats are not capricious and unpretentious in the care. All you have to do is regularly brush your wool, bathe at least 1 time in 5 months, brush your teeth and ears. If possible, give munchkin vitamins, do prophylaxis against worms and fleas (even if the pet lives at home and does not walk).
2. Food must be balanced: artificial and natural. Mandatory components of the diet are meat and dairy products, cereals, fish, milk and fresh water.

Munchkin Diseases

One of the most common diseases in cats is lordosis. This problem is manifested in the weakening of the muscle tissue that holds the spine of the animal. Because of this, the lowering of the spine to the chest begins. Lordosis has a significant effect on the heart and respiratory organs, which impedes your pet's normal lifestyle. The most severe stage of lordosis can be fatal.

Munchkin is a rather expensive breed of domestic cats. The average price of kittens in Russia ranges from 20 to 30 thousand rubles.

Breed cats are very intelligent, affectionate and loyal pets. You will be pleased with your little friend, who will be an excellent conversationalist and comforter. Your children will be delighted with such an animal, because the munchkin is not aggressive, will tolerate any kindness and embrace.