In this article
Affectionately known as the Dachshund of the feline world, the diminutive Munchkin Cat is pure, fur-covered cuteness! Their loveable looks are mirrored by equally loveable personalities and they are known for being amiable felines that fit in comfortably with most households.
In general, Munchkin cats get along happily with dogs, with some sources even noting them as one of the best choices for cat and dog-shared spaces.1 As with most inter-species relationships, there are always a few points to bear in mind for harmonious integration.
Munchkin Characteristics and Temperament
The most striking feature of the Munchkin is its short legs (the front legs often being slightly shorter), resulting in it being classed as a dwarf breed. Interestingly, their legs are the only part of them that is dwarfed—the rest of their body is comparable in stature to a regular-sized cat. They come in all coat types, patterns, and colors, often the only identifying characteristic being their short legs. This is perhaps what gives them their uniquely adorable look that, on any other species, might look comical!
Not only are Munchins affectionate and sociable, but they are also active, playful, and curious felines that may retain an almost kitten-like attitude well into adulthood. They are confident and assertive, yet very laid-back.
Despite their short legs, they enjoy physical play just as much as any other cat. They are surprisingly fast and may tear around the house at break-neck speed. Perhaps less surprising to learn—Munchkins are not able to jump as high as kitties with normal-length legs.
Origins of the Munchkin
The Munchkin’s short legs are due to a natural gene mutation, which results in a condition known as chondrodysplasia, also known as achondroplasia. In this kind of chondrodysplasia, the long bones of the front and back legs are affected causing stunted development. Following selective breeding programs to intentionally reproduce the short leg mutation, this fairly modern breed of cat was first recognized in the 1990s.
All modern Munchkins are descended from a domestic shorthair named Blackberry, who was born in the 1980s and exhibited the mutation. She was bred to one of her male offspring and produced a litter of kittens, half of which had short legs.
Unfortunately, inbreeding in this manner often results in a prevalence of certain genetic diseases. Chondrodysplasia itself is a condition that can result in difficult and sometimes painful symptoms. For this reason, the breeding of Munchkins is shrouded in ethical controversy in certain regions, with some official organizations continuing to refuse association.
Do Munchkins Get Along with Other Pets and Children?
Munchkins are very gregarious and make wonderful companions to other pets and children in the home who are equally outgoing. They genuinely enjoy—rather than simply tolerate—all kinds of company, and their bold, assertive attitudes make them particularly suitable for families that include dogs. They tend not to be naturally intimidated by dogs, even those larger than them!
They are particularly playful kitties, making them a great choice for homes with other young pets and children. As a breed, they prefer busy environments with plenty of opportunities to satisfy their many curiosities. Their easygoing attitude makes them very tolerant of excessive (and perhaps undesired) attention, and aggression is a very rare trait in them.
Tips for Introducing Your New Munchkin to Your Dog
Even if both kitty and hound are sweet-tempered and easy-going, it is always advisable to follow certain steps when introducing them. This is important to prevent any traumatic associations and to ensure a cohesive integration.
It is easier to introduce kittens and puppies to one another, but in reality, this is not always the case. Let us say that you already have a canine companion. Regardless of your new Munchkin’s age, here are some tips and considerations for their initial meeting, first few weeks of cohabitation, and continued mutual happy existence:
- Ensure that your home is ready to accommodate a cat and a dog in a shared space. For example, kitty’s food and litter box should be out of reach of the dog. Have a safe space where your Munchkin can get away from the dog if they’re feeling overwhelmed, and vice versa, if necessary.
- Try and keep them separated for the first few days so that they can begin to get used to each other’s smells and sounds, though they don’t have physical access to each other.
- Try feeding them next to each other in their separate spaces—for example, on either side of a door. They will still be able to hear and smell each other but will associate the other with something happy and exciting.
- Once they seem relaxed while eating their meals near one another, face-to-face introductions can be conducted. This should be done in a communal area that will be shared by both animals in the future. Keep doggie on their leash and engaged with you, and allow Munchkin to come and explore, and introduce themself at will. Let your dog explore on-leash, as they will want to smell the areas where the kitty has explored. Repeat this activity several times a day for a few days.
- Once you are satisfied that both of the fur babies are relaxed in one another’s company, you may allow them to mingle unrestrained. Make sure that the first few encounters are chaperoned!
- Remember, it’s perfectly okay to slow things down or backtrack at any stage if there appears to be any aggression or abnormal fear from either of the animals.
Special Considerations for Munchkins Living with Dogs
Particularly with Munchkins, it’s important to have a space that is a dog-free zone to which the kitty can escape, if necessary. This is because this breed is not as agile as other cats, as they cannot jump onto high levels to escape when threatened due to their short legs.
For this same reason, they fare better as indoor cats, so careful consideration needs to be given to the indoor space that they will share with canines. Ensure that they cannot become cornered or trapped anywhere by a dog.
If any of the household dogs are particularly aggressive, it is wise to keep them away from your beloved Munchkin entirely. The same applies to any other aggressive pets in the home, as well as over-boisterous children, as Munchkins are simply not as successful escape artists as most other cat breeds.
Their disproportionately long backs mean that this part of their body is at higher risk of injury. Though your Munchkin may relish every minute of play with the children, make sure that the kids understand how to handle their fur baby correctly to avoid hurting him or her.
Conclusion
Munchkins are playful and highly sociable kitties that would make a great addition to most families. Provided these few provisos are kept in mind, they will invariably become great buddies with their canine housemates.
Featured Image Credit: Varvara_Gi, Shutterstock
