From United States: Rayville, Louisiana, 1983, from a short-legged stray named Blackberry and her son Toulouse. Short-legged cats had also been reported earlier in the UK (1944), Stalingrad (1956) and New England (1970).12
shorthair (medium-plush) or longhair (semi-long, silky)
A cat of normal body and head proportions carried on noticeably short legs, the result of a naturally occurring dominant gene. It comes in two coat lengths: a plush short coat and a silky semi-long coat.21
An outgoing, playful and people-oriented cat that tends to get on well with children and other pets. It is inquisitive, easy to handle, and likes to collect and stash small shiny objects.2
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Fast and nimble with sharp turns; enjoys chasing and fetching toys and can learn to walk on a leash.2
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Shorthairs: comb weekly. Longhairs: comb about twice a week. Occasional bath, plus regular nail trims, ear checks and tooth brushing.2
Home where they are happiest
Climbs well but prefers several short steps to one big leap, so graduated shelves or multi-level cat trees suit it.2
Company who they like around
Bonds closely with its family and usually mixes well with children, other cats and dogs.2
The story where it all began
In 1983 a music teacher in Rayville, Louisiana, took in a pregnant short-legged stray she named Blackberry; one of her short-legged sons, Toulouse, went on to found the breed. Breeders then used ordinary domestic cats as outcrosses to keep the gene pool broad. The Munchkin was first shown to the public at a TICA show in 1991 and joined TICA's development programme in 1994.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The breed is named after the little Munchkin people in L. Frank Baum's 1900 book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.1
2
A Munchkin called Lilieput from Napa, California, was listed by Guinness World Records as the shortest living cat, standing 5.25 inches (13.3 cm) tall.1
3
Munchkins often sit up on their hind legs like a rabbit to get a better view.2
4
They have a reputation for 'borrowing' small shiny items and hiding them away.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed is named after the Munchkins, the little people in L. Frank Baum's 'The Wizard of Oz', due to their short legs.3
Famous ones stars of the breed
Blackberry The founding female cat of the Munchkin breed, discovered in 1983 by Sandra Hockenedel.2
Toulouse A male kitten from Blackberry's litter, given to Kay LaFrance, who helped establish the breed.2
I woke up with a spring in my step, well, a tiny hop, since my legs are short. My human laughed as I trotted to my food bowl. After breakfast, I found a shiny coin and stashed it under the rug. Then I chased a toy mouse across the living room, making sharp turns that made my human clap. I love fetch! I brought the mouse back and dropped it at her feet, waiting for another throw. Later, I explored every corner of the house, checking for new treasures. When my human sat down, I crawled into her lap for a quick snuggle, then dashed off again. At night, I curled up in my bed, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
TICA
Entered the new breed development programme in 1994; championship status given in 2003 per TICA (Wikipedia gives full recognition as 1997)2
A typical home-care rhythm for a Munchkin. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Munchkin tip
Offer treats sparingly, as extra weight can strain their short legs and joints. Choose low-calorie, high-quality treats and keep them to under 10% of daily calories.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Munchkin, and at what times?
Feeding frequency and times vary by age, weight, and the food you choose. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests following the food label and your vet's advice for portion sizes and schedule. Always provide fresh water. Pet Wiki plan
What should a Munchkin eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a balanced commercial cat food appropriate for your Munchkin's life stage. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Avoid raw meat, eggs, and bones too.4
Does a Munchkin need baths?
Only occasional baths are needed, such as when your Munchkin is very dirty or sticky. Furry Diary's plan doesn't specify a bath schedule, so ask your vet or a good breeder for guidance.25
How often does a Munchkin need brushing?
Shorthair Munchkins need a weekly comb, while longhairs need combing about twice a week. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every 7 days.25Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Munchkin's claws, and how often?
Trim nails every 10 days to 2 weeks, doing no more than two claws per session at first. Furry Diary's plan suggests every 21 days. Use proper cat nail clippers and avoid the quick.5Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Munchkin need?
Munchkins have high activity needs and enjoy chasing, fetching, and learning to walk on a leash. Furry Diary's plan recommends daily play sessions to keep them happy and healthy.2Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Munchkin's teeth and ears?
Brush your Munchkin's teeth regularly, daily is ideal, and Furry Diary's plan suggests every 2 days. Check ears weekly and clean gently if needed. Ask your vet for proper techniques.2Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Munchkin live?
Munchkins typically live between 15 and 18 years. With good care, regular vet visits, and a loving home, they can enjoy a long, happy life.2
Is a Munchkin good with children and other pets?
Yes, Munchkins are outgoing, playful, and people-oriented, usually getting on well with children, other cats, and dogs. They bond closely with their family and are easy to handle.2
Can a Munchkin be left alone?
Munchkins bond closely with their family and may not like long periods alone. The answer varies by individual cat; ask your vet or a good breeder for advice on your Munchkin's needs.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Bambino
Kinkalow
Dwelf
Minuet