Page 103 - The Complete Cat Breed Book (DK)
P. 103

SHOR THAIRS          101

         MUNCHKIN

         FRIENDLY AND SWEET, THIS SHORT–LEGGED CAT IS HIGHLY SOCIABLE

          Place of origin  US    The first Munchkins were bred in Louisiana, and although    Flat
                                                                                         forehead
          Date of origin  1980s  they are now achieving some popularity, in both shorthaired
          Breed registries  TICA  and longhaired versions (p.181), they are not accepted by
          Weight range  6–9lb (2.5–4kg)  many international breed organizations. The exceptionally
          Grooming
                                 short legs of the Munchkin, which arose as a random
                                 mutation, do not appear to affect speed of movement or
          Colors and patterns    longevity. This little cat may not have the jumping ability of
          All colors, shades,    its taller cousins, but it still manages to climb on furniture
          and patterns.
                                 and is lively and playful. The Munchkin has been used to
                                 create other short-legged breeds such as the Minskin.



                                               Broad-based ears                           High, well-defined
                                               set on top of head                         cheekbones

                                                                                   Rounded, wedge-
                                                                                      shaped head   Slight
                                                                                                  nose
                                                                                                  stop





                                                       Black coat with
                                                       white markings
                Round paws
                                               Fairly dense, weather-
                                                 resistant lilac coat
          Tail as long
          as body










                                                                                                Well-rounded
                                                                                                chest





                                                                                         Legs about half the
                                                                                         average length of
                                                                                         other breeds
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