Have you ever heard the name “cat-dachshund” or “cat-kangaroo”? What comes to your mind in the first place? Do you think scientists crossed these animals? But no. These names are cats with short legs. Their photos are presented in the article, so you can make sure that they have nothing to do with dachshunds, except for the length of the limbs.
This breed of animal is called "munchkin." To such cute cats it is simply impossible to remain indifferent. But how did they come about?
A few centuries ago, there were such representatives of the cat family. They were born from ordinary yard cats. Of course, there is no need to talk about the breed of the second parent, it could be anyone. The peculiarity of cats with short paws by gene mutation is determined. You can compare them with the “naked” sphinxes or curly rex. Such animals for a rather long time were considered simply sick. Everything changed in 1991. Since that time, any cat with short legs can boast that he is a representative of the breed munchkin.
From two parents, munchkins, babies with ordinary legs and short ones can be born. The former are subsequently used in breeding to improve the breed.
As already clear, the main feature of such animals is the length of the limbs. It may seem to some that this makes the life of cats not as eventful and fulfilling as that of other breeds. But this is a fallacy. A cat with short paws does not notice this “defect” at all, moving freely and running fast.
Munchkins have a long flexible body. They are strong and muscular, but at the same time flexible. A cat with short legs strikes with the beauty of its eyes. They are large, slanting, oval. Color can be any. Large or medium ears set high on the head. Munchkin’s tail is long, and its tip is rounded. It must be absolutely even. The same goes for the spine. You can find both long-haired munchkins and short-haired. Pet lovers will always find for themselves a pet that they like, because such cats can have absolutely any color.
The similarity of the Manchkins with dachshunds has already been said. But we lost sight of the kangaroo. Often these cats are compared with this animal because of a peculiar habit. The fact is that they like to balance while sitting, while hanging their forelegs freely. Just some circus performers! In general, a cat with short legs is a cheerful pet that will not let the owner get bored. He cannot live without active games, he is friendly with children and with strangers. In addition, Munchkin is very attentive to his master, noting all the shades of his mood. With other pets gets along well.
When walking Munchkin you need to be careful. The fact is that the pet’s gait due to its short legs resembles the habits of an animal that is preparing for an attack. That is why other cats or dogs may find it aggressive. To avoid trouble, it is better to choose limited areas for a walk.
Great friends and fidgets are cats with short paws. The price for 3-month-old babies of this breed starts at $ 400 . Yes, the pleasure is not cheap, but believe me, the munchkin is worth it!