United States
Playful, adventurous and affectionate, with a sociable, almost dog-like streak; many enjoy meeting new people.
| Size | Small |
|---|---|
| Height | 18 to 20 cm (7 to 8 in)1 |
| Coat | Short coat; short legs and curled ears |
| Origin | United States, created in the 1990s by crossing the Munchkin with the American Curl.213 |
Playful, adventurous and affectionate, with a sociable, almost dog-like streak; many enjoy meeting new people.1
A typical home-care rhythm for a Kinkalow. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Moderate. Around two short interactive play sessions a day, with low cat trees suited to its short legs.1
Brush a few times a week, check ears often and trim nails about monthly.1
A protein-rich cat food with portions kept in check to maintain a lean body.1
Feed your Kinkalow a protein-rich cat food with portions kept in check to maintain a lean body. For exact amounts and timing, check the food label and ask your vet, as needs vary by age and activity.1
A protein-rich cat food is recommended. Dangerous foods include chocolate, caffeine, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, chives, and xylitol; avoid these entirely.14
Baths are rarely needed; only bathe if your cat is very dirty or sticky. Regular brushing keeps the coat clean.5
Brush your Kinkalow a few times a week. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests brushing weekly, but short-haired cats often do well with once or twice a week.15 Pet Wiki plan
Trim nails about monthly, or every ten days to two weeks as needed. Start with no more than two claws per session, and use proper cat nail clippers. Pet Wiki's plan suggests trimming every three weeks.15 Pet Wiki plan
Your Kinkalow needs moderate activity, around two short interactive play sessions daily. Low cat trees suit its short legs. Pet Wiki recommends daily play.1 Pet Wiki plan
Check ears often and clean gently if needed. For teeth, daily brushing is ideal; Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing every two days. Ask your vet for proper techniques.1 Pet Wiki plan
Lifespan varies, but with good care many cats live into their teens. Senior years usually start around age 11, so regular vet checkups are important. Pet Wiki plan
Yes, Kinkalows are playful, adventurous, and affectionate with a sociable, almost dog-like streak. They often enjoy meeting new people and can get along well with children and other pets when properly introduced.1
Kinkalows are sociable and may not like long periods alone. Provide toys and enrichment if you're away, but for specific needs, ask your vet or a good breeder.
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.
Running costs for a Kinkalow, built from current prices in each country: food scaled to the weight of the breed, insurance to its size, the rest per country. The purchase price and unplanned vet bills come on top.
Estimates from the sources linked on each line. Food: a complete dry food at about 3,600 kcal/kg at the NRC maintenance energy for the average weight of the breed. Insurance: a typical adult policy scaled by size; real quotes depend on breed, age and cover.
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
The breed name likely comes from the 'kink' in their ears (from the American Curl) and the fact that they are 'low' to the ground (from the Munchkin). The name may have originated from one of the first kittens, Kinkalow Louie, bred by Terri Harris in 1997.6
I greet the morning with a stretch and a chirp. My human tosses a feather toy, and I dash after it, my short legs carrying me fast. I meet a visitor and rub against their legs, purring. For a low climb, I scale my cat tree, then settle for a snuggle. Later, we play hide-and-seek behind the couch. I nap in a sunbeam, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
The Kinkalow was developed in the USA in the 1990s by combining two newer breeds, the short-legged Munchkin and the curl-eared American Curl. It remains a rare, experimental breed.12
Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].
Text is written in our own words from these sources.
Munchkin
American Curl
Bambino