lordosis in munchkin cats lordosis in munchkin cats

Since they're so low to the ground, they are able to make tight turns like a low-slung racecar! Pectus excavatum is a deformity of the cartilage of the sternum and ribs. The cost of a reputable kitten from a reputable breeder can range from $700 to $1,100, depending on a variety of factors. You might also observe your cat jumping up and down from furniture less frequently. [16] The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy likewise refuses to recognize the breed, considering this breed and others like it to be "unacceptable" because they are based on an "abnormal structure or development". This doesnt just apply to their shortened legs, either. . Do you know where I can get some help with this? You may notice your cat struggling to get around in low light or becoming less active at night. While all Munchkins have limb deformities to some degree, some experience significant difficulties with mobility because of it. There is no cure for progressive retinal atrophy, and it is guaranteed to lead to blindness eventually, but the rate of progression can vary between cats. [25], It is not fully known how the mutation impacts the health of the breed. Munchkin kittens take to litter training quickly, especially when you reward them with cat toys and treats. Simons recommends that all cats, Munchkins included, be brushed weekly. Just like human cancer patients, animals with lymphosarcoma are commonly treated with chemotherapy. When paired with their average-size bodies (they generally weigh 69 pounds), this gives this dwarf cat a unique look, and their affectionate personalities are the cherry on top. Heres What To Do, Answered by Dr. Olivia Speight, BVSc MRCVS (Vet). Munchkins are highly desirable and their popularity has led to lots of people willing to prey on people looking to adopt one. Kittens bearing two copies of the munchkin gene (MM) will not develop in the womb. Kittens bearing one munchkin gene and one normal gene (Mm) will be short-legged munchkins. Your vet will examine your cat and consider its symptoms in order to determine the cause of your cats FLUTD and come up with a suitable treatment plan. They called the new breed bambino (the Italian word for "baby"). It may appear surprising that Munchkin cats are just as active and lively as their larger counterparts given their diminutive size. Be the first to get our latest updates, insider videos, cat health resources, and more. Many of these animals are forced to undergo surgeries that can cause significant health problems, and they are frequently housed in inhumane conditions. It is especially prevalent in male cats. Although Munchkin cats, when taken care of, can live about 12 to 15 years on average, there are some health problems that can develop due to their short legs. Lordosis is an abnormal spinal shape in which the spine slopes or dips down into the chest cavity. Two short-legged Munchkins are unlikely to produce a litter of kittens. A munchkin cat is a short-legged cat breed. The Cat Fanciers Association, which does not recognize the Munchkin, considers the Bambino experimental and discourages the breed. We do our best to help you better understand your cats, but the information on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Fluffy Munchkins might need more frequent grooming than short-haired kitties, but in general, this breed has a low-maintenance coat. If your Munchkin has a short coat, then you'll want to brush them just once or twice per week to remove any loose hair. Thanks to social media, Munchkin cats are becoming more widely known and well-loved by many people. He has a long, skinny body, walnut-shaped eyes, and triangular ears. Keep your kitty's claws clipped to prevent damage to your belongings, and consider teaching your kitten to allow toothbrushing from a young age. How much your Munchkin eats will depend on her weight, lifestyle, health, and other factors. Check on Facebook there are also good reputable breeders on line. Munchkin cats will shed, particularly if they have a longer coat. The Munchkin has been crossed with the curly-coated LaPerm to create the Skookum,[37] the hairless Sphynx to create the Minskin and Bambino,[38][39] another curly-coated Selkirk Rex to create the Lambkin,[40] the Persian breed group (which includes Himalayans and Exotic Shorthair) to create the Napoleon (renamed the Minuet), the curled-eared American Curl to create the Kinkalow, the folded-eared Scottish Fold to create the Scottish Kilts, and also with the Bengal to create the Genetta. They are a cute cat that can be a great pet. Veterinarians often recommend a mix of wet food (which can help kitties stay hydrated) and dry kibble (to help reduce tartar buildup on their teeth). The Munchkin cat's short legs lead people who are unfamiliar with the breed to believe that these cats are very slow-moving. You might liken the Munchkin cat to one of the hot dog dog breeds such as the Dachshund. [10] However, the breed would not be officially recognized at that time. The prognosis is highly variable based on how severe the cancer is, but early treatment usually provides the best prognosis. Aside from these serious health issues, the cat may also suffer from lower urinary tract disease or hyperthyroidism. This in turn puts pressure on the trachea, lungs and heart. While each individual has a unique personality, breed-specific genetics affect qualities like sociability, playfulness, and intelligence. This line disappeared during the Second World War but other short-legged cats were spotted in Russia during 1956 and the United States in the 1970s. If left untreated, lymphoma will inevitably lead to death. Breeds with a higher rating in this area tend to be gentle and patient, while lower-rated breeds may feel uncomfortable with children. Mowkin cats are not intended for household use, so if you want a fluffy pet, dont buy one. Although the breeds lifespan is pretty typical for a cat (around 1215 years), there are health issues pet parents should watch for. For each kitten conceived from this mating, there is a 25% chance it will fail to gestate, a 25% chance it will be normal, and a 50% chance it will be short-legged. . Hepper.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. It's a condition in which the cat's spine does not grow correctly. This condition is rare in cats, but cats with elongated and malformed spines, like Munchkins, can be at a higher risk. The Munchkin cat is a fun-loving cat who enjoys interacting with kids, other cats, and even dogs. What You Need to Know. They are also still prone to developing the same health issues as other cat breeds, so its important to keep a close eye on your Munchkins health to ensure they stay happy and healthy for years to come. This imaging technique uses a radiopaque substance that is injected into the spine, or into the membranous space that surrounds the spinal cord so that the defects in the spine will be visible on X-ray projections. Kitten Munchkins are susceptible to this condition, which is caused by the spinal muscles growing too short. The typical adult height among individuals of this breed. Your email address will not be published. Nicole Cosgrove. Shorthaired Munchkins have plush, soft coats. Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of your cats thyroid hormone, which results in a metabolic rate thats higher than average. They generally enjoy a snuggle session, but only if theyve had the opportunity to get some energy out first. Is there an available list to look at? Andrew Prentis, of Hyde Park Veterinary Centre in Central London, had a word of advice for those wanting a to buy a Munchkin cat or breed them. It's very important to note that breeding one Munchkin cat to another Munchkin cat can lead to serious health problems in the offspring. This disorder can not only decrease joint mobility, but it also causes pain and increases the likelihood of injuries to unaffected joints since the cat may offload from the painful limb, increasing wear and tear on other body parts. Kittens bearing two normal genes (mm) will be normal. The reason: controversy over whether the mutation causing the breeds short legs poses health risks. Over time, unmanaged or poorly managed hyperthyroidism can lead to hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness. Spaying and neutering is strongly recommended for these animals. Leave the cat alone.. If you want one with rare coat colors and a champion bloodline, they will charge between $2,000 and $3,000. While their short legs may make them look like theyre always dressed up for Halloween, they are actually a very friendly and affectionate breed of cat. Their short legs are caused by a naturally occurring genetic mutation that is caused by an autosomal dominant gene. A Munchkin cat's legs should be short, and should be set evenly apart, with the upper and lower forelegs being of equal length. Munchkin cats can and do appear naturally sometimes. The Scottish Fold Munchkin Cat is a unique and charming breed of cat that combines the features of two beloved breeds of catsthe Scottish Fold and the Munchkin. To identify a munchkin cat, look for short front legs with slightly taller back legs and a long body. Some people have argued that the Munchkin M gene mutation can cause health problems. Solid colors, tabbies, harlequins, and pointed varieties are a few examples. Munchkin cats cannot survive if they inherit this gene from both parents, so they are only bred with regular cats. Theyre adorable, friendly, andas long as you dont mind the occasional stolen earring or baublea joy to live with. This type of cancer can be treated in some instances, but it is not always treatable. Pancreatitis is characterized by inflammation of your cats pancreas. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. The paws should be round and compact. [2] There were early speculations that the Munchkin would develop spinal problems commonly seen in short-legged dog breeds; however, in 1995 several breeders had their oldest Munchkins X-rayed and examined for signs of joint or bone problems and found none. Not all Munchkin cats are bred into existence by humans. These cute cats are instantly lovable because of their short legs, long bodies, and loving personalities. Spinal malformations are usually evident at birth or in the first few weeks of life. While the munchkin trait is naturally occurring in some cats, some people prefer to avoid buying a cat that was specifically bred for this physical trait. In mild cases, IVDD is often successfully managed with pain medications, physical therapy, and steroids, although it can continue to worsen over time. Visible signs of a distorted spinal column are lordosis (curvature of the spine at the lower back) and kyphosis (a posterior curvature of the spine). Leg length affects the height only; the rest of the cat's body is proportioned like that of an average domestic cat. In some cats, this spinal deformity can lead to compression within the chest, decreasing their ability to properly perform body functions that are vital to survival, like breathing. If they experience whisker fatigue with a bowl, a flat plate or mat may be preferable for some cats. Her rescuer, Sandra Hochenedel, gave one of the male short-legged kittens to a friend named Kay LaFrance. The short-legged cat has been reported all over the world since antiquity, but it was not widely known until the 1980s. See also: Munchkin Cat Facts: 8 Amazing Things You Didnt Know, Featured Image Credit: SV_zt, Shutterstock, 4 Homemade Grain-Free Cat Treat Recipes (Vet Approved). Though they are purposefully bred due to their popularity, Munchkin cats occur naturally. It is a short-legged breed of cat similar to dachshunds. Eyes may be of any color. If youre looking for a munchkin cat for sale, you may have some luck finding one at a local pet store or through a breeder. Although there are not many medical conditions that this breed is specifically predisposed to, there are a few that can have a significant impact on the quality of life for a cat. With their short legs, any additional ounces can put more strain on their spines. Some people believe that munchkin cats are cruelly treated because they are bred to have a genetic defect that causes their legs to be abnormally short. When two munchkin cats are crossed and small litter sizes occur, this indicates that embryos that are homozygous for the munchkin gene are non-viable.[32]. 2. The Munchkin is a highly social cat that enjoys being around people. They are also known as thieves, as they will steal things off counters or dressers, and play with it until it disappears.. Are munchkin cats bred differently than other types of cats? [17], In order to protect the animals welfare, several countries and territories have prohibited breeding with Munchkins, including the Netherlands (2014),[18][19] Scotland,[20] and Victoria (Australia). Small litter sizes when two munchkin cats are crossed indicate that embryos that are homozygous for the munchkin gene are non-viable. While some cats don't seem to be affected by this downward curve, it can cause spinal pain, leaning to one side, and lead to reduced movement. If it's very bad, then a kitten may well not survive. This deformity can range from moderate to severe in severity and can lead to problems like decreased exercise tolerance, coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, frequent upper respiratory infections, poor appetite, weight loss or failure to thrive, and tachycardia. This educational content is not veterinary advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. Shes always had a cat in her home and has spent countless days with others, observing behaviors and softening up even the grouchiest of the lot. Munchkin cat breeders select for this gene, which affects leg bone length. With extra short legs that contribute to the breed's nickname "Dachshund of the cat world," these kitties tend to be on the small side. Lordosis causes a shortening of the muscles that hold the spine in place, allowing it to sink down into the chest cavity. When this occurs, it leads to compression of the internal organs. Dwarf cats, like regular cats, are susceptible to health problems, but they can live long and happy lives if properly cared for. Vincent The Cat Gets Rare Prosthetic Leg Impants, monitoring_string = "44e5bb901650ec61e9e0af1ff1bef5fe". This greatly reduces the risk of health issues that could cause discomfort and early death. If you are not feeding your cat fresh food, be sure to choose a high-quality brand that includes real meat or fish as the first ingredient. The typical adult weight range of this cat breed. But do Munchkin cats have more health issues than other cat breeds? The tail should be of medium length about the same length as the cat's body. Teacup cats are small cats that have been bred to be so small. Most Munchkins dont require any intervention for this deformity, though. How to Get Cat Poop Stains Out of the Couch: 4 Stain Remover Options, Why Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet? Munchkins are playful and kitten-like the majority of their lives, says Dawn Lott, who in addition to breeding and showing Munchkins for 23 years, serves as TICA breed chair. These cats must be bred in a cruel and irresponsible manner. If you're looking for a pet that's friendly with strangers, you might want to consider a Munchkin cat. In the world of the Munchkin cat, there is never enough company. A full physical exam will be performed. Symptoms include loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, and depression. The Munchkins series is known for its humor and light-hearted tone, and this game captures that same spirit. Feed your Munchkin a measured meal two to three times a day, using a life stage-appropriate food (kitten, adult, or senior). One thing is certain: Bring a Munchkin into your home, and you'll instantly fall in love with their adorable looks and charming personalities. Animals with this condition have a relatively good prognosis as long as they are diagnosed young; the best time to perform surgery is between 8 and 12 weeks of age. Pectus Excavatum The term pectus excavatum literally means "hollow breast" in Latin. This is especially important given that short-legged cats such as Munchkins and Munchkin mixes are prone to spinal issues such as lordosis. After a year, I requested a refund and Connie will not reply to my request going on 6 months now. The breeds dominant personality traits. They may have short or long hair, and they come in every color imaginable. Image Credit: https://www.catster.com/cats-101/about-the-munchkin-cat, Image Credit: They make ideal family pets and are all-around good natured. These are energetic cats that tend to get along with all members of the family, both humans and other pets. Brooke spent nine years as a veterinary assistant before becoming a human nurse in 2013. Lordosis Pectus Excavatum Hypochondroplasia Osteoarthritis Minor Conditions: Gingivitis: A common gum disease in cats that causes redness and swelling of the gums. Since they aren't likely to leap onto tall tabletops and high display shelves, members of the Munchkin cat breed might be ideal for people who love cats but worry about the impact they might have on collectibles. In the earliest stages of this disease, your Munchkin may begin to experience difficulty with visual acuity at night and in low light situations. A post shared by (@shiroro41). Munchkin cats are considered highly sociable, playful, and intelligent, Simons says. In addition to their official names, most breeds earn a few nicknames. The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Southern Africa Cat Council are the only registries that currently accept Munchkin cats. That, she says, makes this breed predisposed to osteoarthritis and mobility issues. Munchkin Ragdolls are a relatively new breed of cat, and as such, they may not have any of these health problems. Mm munchkin kittens will be able to pass on the munchkin gene to their own offspring. If youre away from the house a lot, consider getting your kitty a furry friend. Munchkin cats come in three different heights: Standard, supershort, and rug hugger. [9] She kept one of the cats and named her Blackberry and half of her kittens were born short-legged. Cats that have been diagnosed with this defect should not be bred, nor should their parents be bred further, since congenital spinal and vertebral malformations are hereditary. The munchkin gene is an autosomal dominant one. Some registries, such as the Fdration Internationale Fdline, have yet to recognize the breed. It also comes in a long-haired variety, which is shown in a separate Munchkin Longhair category. The Munchkin is a wonderful house cat that readily befriends everyone sharing her home. The educational cat health content on Cats.com is written by or reviewed by our team of veterinary experts to ensure that its in line with the latest evidence-based veterinary information and health guidelines. On the other hand, vertebral malformations can be latent until the cat undergoes a growth spurt, sometimes not becoming apparent for several months. 1. One possible genetic health problem of Munchkin kittens is a condition called lordosis, also known as tight chest. In mild cases, IVDD is often successfully managed with pain medications, physical therapy, and steroids, although it can continue to worsen over time. While some say that Munchkin cats arent able to jump as high as other cats simply because their legs are so short, others argue that they avoid jumping because it causes them pain. A higher rating in this area indicates a breed prone to plenty of meowing and other vocalizations, while less-vocal breeds are happy to stay quiet. The average lifespan of the breed. Hi Michael, We currently dont list any partical breeders on the site.