Munchkin Ragdoll Cat is one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States, and it’s easy to see why these little kitties are cute as can be. They’re also very friendly, playful, and social with humans and other animals. Munchkin Ragdoll Cat first started being bred in 1976 by Ann Baker. The cat has become so popular that an estimated 80% of all Ragdoll cats on the market are directly descended from those first few Munchkin Ragdoll Cats.
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History of the Munchkin
The origins of the Ragdoll cat breed, a relatively new one, are mysterious. Ann Baker in Riverside, California, started it. The white angora Persian cat Josephine, who was injured in a vehicle accident, is said to have started the breed. Josephine’s kittens were noted for their laid-back personalities. Fortunately, Josephine wasn’t gravely hurt, and she continued to produce litter after litter, leading to the development of the Ragdoll cat breed. All of the current Ragdoll kittens descended from Josephine. Every Ragdoll must be able to trace its lineage back to Josephine. A comprehensive registry (in the USA) lists all breeding cats, starting with Josephine and continuing until the present day.
When Sandra Hochenedel discovered that one of her cats had a genetic abnormality that led it to be born with extremely small legs in the 1980s in Louisiana, the Munchkin breed was born. The Munchkin breed has grown in popularity since then and is now acknowledged by the Cat Fanciers Association.
Personality Traits of a Munchkin
Munchkins are known for being very loving and affectionate cats. They have been described as purr machines because they are always purring! They are also known for being very laid back and relaxed, which makes them great lap cats. Munchkins also tend to be curious and playful and love exploring their surroundings. If you’re looking for a fun and loving cat, the Munchkin is the perfect breed for you.
Grooming Requirements for the Munchkin
The Munchkin is a medium-sized cat breed with short legs and long bodies. They are known for their small size and cute, kitten-like faces. While they may be small, they are actually quite active and playful. They enjoy climbing and jumping, so a home with plenty of toys and high places to perch is ideal. When it comes to grooming, the Munchkin is relatively low-maintenance. Their short fur is easy to brush, and they rarely need to be bathed. You should keep an eye out for hairballs by ensuring your kitty has lots of toys and brushes available.
Diet Requirements for the Munchkin
The Munchkin diet is relatively simple and does not require any special food or supplements. Good quality dry cat food and fresh water should always be available. Treats can be given but should be limited as they are high in calories. Beware foods containing onions, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and dairy products. Like many other breeds of cats, the Munchkin cannot tolerate milk products such as milk or cheese.
You should ensure that your kitty eats a well-balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight. You’ll also want to ensure that you provide fresh water daily.
What is Different About Breeding from an Animal with Dwarfism?
Dwarfism in animals is caused by a genetic mutation that results in reduced growth hormone production. It means that the bones and joints do not grow to their full size, resulting in a smaller stature. While this may seem like a negative trait, many people find these animals’ shortened limbs and larger heads to be incredibly cute. In fact, the munchkin cat is one of the most popular breeds of dwarf cats.
If you are looking for an unusual pet, there are few better choices than a munchkin cat. But how can you tell if your cat has dwarfism? A possible sign of dwarfishness is the floppiness of the ears; while they are typically perky on regular-sized cats, they tend to droop on short-statured ones. It’s also possible for short-statured cats to have squished faces with low-set ears and wide eyes. These traits combine for a decidedly adorable appearance in ragdoll munchkin cat
Lifespan
Both cat breeds are projected to live long lives, with the Munchkin living an average of 12 to 15 years and the Ragdoll living 15 years or more. Therefore, a comparable lengthy lifetime can be expected for the Ragdoll Munchkin breed.
How Much Do They Cost?
On average, Munchkin Ragdoll cats cost between $600 and $1,200. This price range varies depending on factors such as the breeder, coat color, and whether the cat is a purebred or mixed breed.
Common health issues
Although Munchkin Ragdolls are mostly healthy cats, like all breeds, they might have certain health issues.
Among the health concerns commonly occurring in Munchkin Ragdolls are:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): This heart condition, which can result in premature death in cats of all breeds, affects them. At least once a year, Munchkin Ragdolls should all undergo HCM screenings.
- Patellar luxation: This disease, which causes the knee joint to pop out of place and cause discomfort and disability, affects the patella. Patellar luxation should be checked on every Munchkin Ragdoll at least once each year.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): This condition affects the retina and can eventually result in blindness. At least once a year, all Munchkin Ragdolls should get a PRA screening.
- Urinary tract infections: Since cats are susceptible to infections, keeping the litter box dry and clean for your feline friend is crucial.
Despite the fact that Munchkin Ragdolls are typically a healthy breed, all cats should be checked annually for common health issues.
Where can I find Munchkin Ragdoll Mix Kittens for Sale?
Due to the scarcity of the breed, finding a Munchkin Ragdoll Mix kitten for sale may be hard. You probably won’t find many registered breeders with Munchkin Ragdoll mix kittens because it’s not a purebred cat. Whether you want to find out if someone in your neighborhood is selling a Munchkin Ragdoll Mix kitten, it is best to check online classifieds services like Craigslist or Facebook. Remember to do your research to make sure the seller is legitimate before buying a kitten online. Last but not least, inquire about available Munchkin Ragdoll Mix kittens in neighborhood animal shelters or rescues.
Final thought
A beautiful and affectionate breed of cat, the Munchkin Ragdoll cat, makes a wonderful pet choice due to its sweet and docile temperament, gorgeous appearance, and lack of maintenance requirements. However, it’s important to do your research before deciding on this breed so you can be prepared to handle the unique needs of these kitties. Whether you’re an experienced cat owner or a first-time cat parent, we’ve got you covered with our guide to the Munchkin Ragdoll cat breed.