Munchkin Cats - to Breed or Not to Breed

When you think of the word munchkin, the Wizard of Oz suddenly comes to mind. In this case, munchkin applies to cats instead. This new breed of cat, call Munchkin, is surrounded by controversy. Many organizations refuse to even recognize the breed. However, other groups believe the Munchkin's noticeably shorter legs are enough to warrant having their own unique breed.

~Man Controlling Nature

Through the process of natural selection, cats normally have long legs in order to hunt and avoid predators. So how does one explain the short legs? Actually, Munchkins are the result of a disease called achondroplasia. This disease is genetic and may or may not be passed on if a Munchkin and a normal breed mate.

However, some people desire Munchkins, no matter what the cause of their short legs. As with some other breeds, man is actually controlling the breeding process. Since 1983, when the first Munchkins were discovered, man has been deliberately breeding Munchkins and therefore continuing to pass on the genetic disease. Since the Munchkins are a result of a disease, one must question whether or not it's ethical to continue breeding them.

~Breeding

Simply breeding two Munchkins may not result in Munchkin kittens. Breeding has shown two Munchkins may produce short legged, long legged or even stillborn kittens. Since Munchkins are relatively new, inbreeding is a possibility. To keep the breed healthy, outcrossing is necessary. Outcrossing means mixing a Munchkin with an unrecognized breed.

By mixing traits from various breeds, you can't know for certain the result of breeding. This is yet another controversy surrounding Munchkins. Some people believe it's best to stop breeding Munchkins altogether since the gene pool is so small and may result in other health issues down the road.

~Other Issues

Munchkins, sadly, have a high mortality rate. Other health issues are possible since the achondroplasia trait is still being studied. Munchkins are also more prone to predators if left outdoors. With their short legs, they are not as fast as a normal cat. Otherwise, Munchkins are considered fairly normal and healthy lap cats.

No one knows for sure if breeding Munchkins is right or not. No one knows the long term consequences of passing on a genetic disease either. All one can do is know the facts and the risks involved and make their own decision.