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Exotic Shorthair Munchkin Cat Mix: Pictures, Info, Temperament & Traits

Written by: Kerry-Ann Kerr

Last Updated on January 16, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

Exotic shorthair cat sitting in grass

Exotic Shorthair Munchkin Cat Mix: Pictures, Info, Temperament & Traits

The Exotic Shorthair Munchkin mix is a new breed known as the Minuet or Napoleon. They’re playful, loyal, affectionate, and make an excellent addition to the family. If you’re considering getting one of these adorable cats, you’ll want to know more about them. So, let’s get started!

Breed Overview

Height

6–10 inches

Weight

6–12 pounds

Lifespan

12–15 years

Colors

Black, white, chocolate, ginger, blue, lilac, red, beige, fawn, cream, sable, cinnamon—various colors and combinations are also possible

Suitable for

Single owners or families looking for an affectionate cat

Temperament

Loyal, affectionate, easygoing, sweet, playful

The Exotic Shorthair Munchkin mix might seem like a small cat at first glance, but they have substantial medium-sized bodies. Plus, not all Minuets have short legs, as genetics plays a significant role in determining how tall the delightful cats are. They are known for their kitten-like, playful temperaments.

As they are still a relatively new breed, we don’t have all the information about Minuets. However, it’s safe to assume from what we know about Munchkins and Exotic Shorthairs that they are sweet-natured, sociable cats that fit in with families of various shapes and sizes.

Exotic Shorthair Munchkin Mix Characteristics

Energy
+
A high-energy cat needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep healthy and happy, while a low-energy cat needs minimal physical activity, but still needs mental stimulation. When choosing a cat, It’s important to ensure their energy levels match your lifestyle.
Trainability
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Cats that are easy-to-train are more willing and skilled at quickly learning prompts and actions with minimal training. Harder-to-train cats are usually more stubborn or aloof and require a bit more patience and practice.
Health
+
Certain cat breeds are more prone to various genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every cat in those breeds will have these issues, but they do have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
Lifespan
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Due to their size or potential genetic health issues of a specific breed, some cats have shorter lifespans than others. Proper nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, and hygiene also play an important role in your cat’s lifespan and quality of life.
Sociability
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Some cat breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other cats and animals. Cats that are more social have a tendency to rub up on strangers for scratches or jump on laps for cuddles, while cats that are less social shy away, hide, are more cautious, and even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed or gender, it’s important to socialize your cat and expose them to many different situations.

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Exotic Shorthair Munchkin Mix Kittens

Exotic Shorthair Munchkin mixes love playing and are generally self-motivated as adults to play. However, the kittens love nothing more than when you get down on the floor and interact with them and a toy, as they love engaging with their humans.

If you’re in the market for an Exotic Shorthair Munchkin mix, chances are you won’t find one in a shelter, but it’s always best to check first. If you adopt one from a breeder, ensure they have a trustworthy, ethical reputation.

Breeders should allow you to ask questions about where the cats are kept and the lineage of the litter. They should provide verified health information about your kitten. If they fail to do so or seem uncomfortable with questions, continue your search.

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Temperament & Intelligence of the Exotic Shorthair Munchkin Mix

Knowing what you’ll get regarding a mixed breed can sometimes be tricky. However, it helps when the parent breeds are similar, like the Exotic Shorthair and Munchkin. The most significant difference is their energy levels. If your cat takes after the Exotic Shorthair side, they will be less playful, and you might have more of a job tempting them to move. On the other hand, Munchkins are quick and energetic.

Exotic Shorthair Munchkins are intelligent cats, so expect to be outsmarted in a game! They also prefer the company of their families and would do best with owners who won’t leave them alone for long periods.

Napoleon cat
Image Credit: Robert Way, Shutterstock

Are the Exotic Shorthair Munchkin Mix Good for Families?👪

Minuets come from affectionate, people-orientated parents, so it should be no surprise that they love spending time with their families. They require early socialization to ensure they are comfortable around change and new people. That way, they won’t be wary of people visiting your home.

Be sure to keep them physically and mentally stimulated, or expect to be woken in the middle of the night with your cat jumping off your bedroom walls. They are curious and adaptable and will generally do well in any home if the owner has the time to spend with them.

Does the Exotic Shorthair Munchkin Mix Get Along With Other Pets?

The Exotic Shorthair Munchkin mix has an easygoing, sweet nature, and they get along well with other pets, whether cats or dogs. Early socialization and gradual, supervised introductions are crucial, however. All cats develop unique personalities and quirks, and some Exotic Shorthair Munchkins may take longer to accept other pets. So always be cautious.

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Things to Know When Owning an Exotic Shorthair Munchkin Mix:

Food & Diet Requirements

The Exotic Shorthair Munchkin needs high-quality food that’s high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids. It’s important to ensure they get the right food to match their activity levels. If your cat is putting on weight, they are at risk of becoming obese.

Exercise🐈

Exercise is crucial for your Minuet, not only for their physical health, but it will also help prevent boredom. Interactive toys can challenge their mind, and since they’re fond of climbing, you can install cat trees and place them around the house to give your cat plenty of opportunities for exercise when you aren’t there. When you’re home, you can keep them fit by tossing a catnip mouse around or using a feather wand.

Training🧶

Training might be something you associate more with dogs, but you can also train your cat! The Exotic Shorthair Munchkin is an intelligent breed, and they are also relatively easy to train. Not only can you litter box train them, but they can also learn to play fetch, word association, and crate training.

Grooming✂️

While the name suggests your cat will have short hair, they might inherit a longer coat. Their grooming frequency depends on whether they have a long or short coat. Your Exotic Shorthair Munchkin mix must be brushed daily or weekly, depending on their coat type.

You should bathe your cat only when needed, like when they get dirty playing outside. Over-bathing your cat can strip them of their natural oils, which can cause skin irritation.

Regularly checking their ears for debris and signs of inflammation is vital to prevent infections.

They need their teeth brushed at least three times a week, but ideally, every day, to decrease plaque and prevent the accumulation of tartar.

Health and Conditions🏥

Generally, the Exotic Shorthair Munchkin mix is an incredibly healthy cat, but they’re vulnerable to a few health conditions. Be sure to keep up with scheduled vet visits because your veterinarian can detect problems early and treat conditions before they progress. You must keep up to date with their vaccinations and preventative medications, such as those that keep fleas, ticks, and worms at bay.

Minor Conditions
  • Cataracts
  • Obesity
  • Stomach upset and discomfort
Serious Conditions
  • Cancer
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
  • Kidney issues
  • Respiratory issues

Male vs Female

Some owners claim male Exotic Shorthair Munchkins are clingier than their female counterparts, but anecdotal evidence does not confirm a significant difference in the sexes. Neutering or spaying your cat will reduce undesirable behavior, such as spraying and trying to escape to find a mate.

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3 Little-Known Facts About the Exotic Shorthair Munchkin Mix

1. Munchkins Are Quick

Munchkins are surprisingly agile. They might not be able to get up as high as taller cats, but it doesn’t slow them down.


2. They’re Popular but Rare

They aren’t impossible to find, but as Minuets are rare, chances are you might need to search several cities in your state or neighboring states to locate a reputable breeder.


3. The Way They Sit Will Make You Smile

Munchkins like to sit up on their tiny hind legs, and many people liken them to meerkats.

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Final Thoughts

The Exotic Shorthair Munchkin mix is an affectionate, amusing cat that makes an excellent pet. Although it might take a while to locate one, they’re worth the effort. Two remarkable breeds are mixed to produce the Exotic Shorthair Munchkin, and if you admire the Persian’s relaxed nature and Munchkin’s love of people, you’ll love their offspring.

Related Read


Featured Image Credit: Ewa Studio, Shutterstock

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