Dwarfism in cats is caused by a genetic disorder that leads to having shorter limbs and a disproportionately small sized adult cat. Some cats are bred for these features such as the Munchkin cat breed, which is a controversial topic in the cat breeders community due to the potential health risks involved.
In this article we will dive into the topic to explain the condition of these cats in a little more detail than in the original article Why is my cat small?
Dwarfism in cats is also called osteochondrodysplasia, which is an abnormal development of bone and cartilage. Achondroplasia, which is the condition that Munchkins have, is a type of osteochondrodysplasia.
However the Munchkin cat is considered to have pseudoachondroplasia because this breed does not have all of the traits that cats with dwarfism have. Cats with achondroplasia may have a normal-sized body, but their legs are disproportionately short and thick, and their head is larger than average.
Signs of dwarfism in cats
Many of the signs of dwarfism in cats can be observed visually. But to get a specific diagnosis you would need to consult with a veterinarian. Cats with dwarfism were being noted since the 1930s and then after WII they re-appeared again. These are the most common visual signs of dwarfism in cats:
- Larger head than the rest of the body
- Shorter nose plus lower jaw that sticks out more than the upper jaw
- Unusually shaped bones
- A shorter jaw, which can lead to misaligned teeth
- Shorter-than-usual limb bones
- Joints that seem enlarged or swollen
- Insufficient overall growth of the body
- A spine that is curved or misaligned
- Front legs that bend outward, commonly seen in the forelimbs
For the most accurate diagnosis your vet would also take blood and urine samples to determine if there are other conditions involved. The final diagnosis can also include noting down genetic history, x-rays of limbs and spine. The most common cat breed of a dwarf cat is the Munchkin.
Does a Munchkin cat breed have dwarfism?
Yes, munchkin cats have a form of dwarfism, called achondroplasia. It is characterized by the short legs. The rest of their body is proportionate, just as a cat without dwarfism. This gives them that miniature look that some people prefer. The gene that causes short legs is dominant so only 1 copy of the gene is needed to make a munchkin kitten. However people can’t and should never breed 2 munchkin cats, as unfortunately having 2 copies of the gene can be lethal to the unborn kitten development. Usually munchkins are made by having 1 munchkin cat and a cat without the mutation.
Unfortunately because of that Munchkins can’t jump as high or as far as normal cats. Otherwise they are fairly healthy, though some are concerned about their spine issues. They are more prone to developing arthritis as well.
Can Munchkin cats go outside?
No, a Munchkin would be an indoor-only type of cat, as their mobility prevents them from fleeing effectively. They would not be able to survive in the wild outdoors, although the cat itself may disagree with that statement and be curious about the outside world. Munchkins are the ideal companions for people who spend lots of their time home, in a calm environment. This breed is not recommended to be kept in families with children as these cats have fragile backs, and not all kids may be able to handle these cats with care.
How long do cats with dwarfism live?
Cats with dwarfism tend to live around 12-15 yrs. That is due to the increasing health risks as they age, many can develop early arthritis, spinal disorders such as lordosis (excessive curvature of the spine) and pectus excavatum (hollowed chest).
How to treat dwarfism in cats
If a cat with dwarfism has negative symptoms, those can be somewhat managed with certain medications, supplements and painkillers, but as a genetic condition it is untreatable. It is a very complex and often poorly understood condition. The extent to which it is manageable also heavily depends on which bones are affected the most.
How to care for a cat with dwarfism
To provide essential care to your cat with the condition, there would need to be regular veterinary check ups to make sure your cat is healthy. There are several things you would need to keep in mind when it comes to your cat’s daily life:
- Feeding habits
- Size-appropriate exercise
- Risk of arthritis
- Accessibility
- Mental stimulation
When it comes to kitties with dwarfism, it is important to monitor how much they are fed. Cats with dwarfism are at risk for obesity and that can put additional stress on their joints. So it is best to avoid free-feeding. These cats’ reduced activity levels may make them more susceptible to weight gain. That is why it is crucial to ensure the kitty is receiving a balanced healthy meal in controlled portions.
Cats with dwarfism may have different exercise needs. They cannot jump as high or as far. They cannot jump as high or as far. So a normal cat tree would not be the best choice. Look for cat furniture that has a lower base. You might want to have a ramp or steps next to the furniture or areas you’d want them to access. You can create a space for your munchkin that allows them to jump shorter distances, and is appropriate for their abilities.
Other items need to be thought of when it comes to accessibility. Consider getting a litter box with shorter sides, or the type of litter box that has a ramp or steps. Alternatively you can get a ramp separately and fix it next to the litter box.
Another risk we mentioned is arthritis. It is fairly common among cats with dwarfism. Consider providing your cat with supplements for their joints as a preventative treatment. It can help strengthen their joints and hopefully prevent arthritis. Sometimes painkillers are prescribed for arthritic cats as well. Consult with your veterinarian for the best options to care for your kitty.
Conclusion
Cats with dwarfism including Munchkins are quite adorable in their physique despite some limitations. Unfortunately cats with dwarfism also have a higher risk of developing chronic illnesses that can make their movement even more restricted and also painful. With professional consultation from your veterinarian and by staying observant of your cats’ needs and health, your kitty can still have a great life in your home.