Most Common Munchkin Cat Health Problems
July 11, 2024
5 Lovable Cat Breeds With Short Legs
April 3, 2025
5 Cats With Short Legs That Are Vet-Approved
Is it possible to make a cat even more adorable? Just the thought of them playing and doing what cat with short legs do best— i.e., mischief and goofiness —makes millions of people smile every single day. But what if you threw a Munchkin cat into the mix? Munchkin cats with short legs are a relatively new breed of cats with short legs (or other features) due to a genetic mutation. However, these cats aren’t just adorable random occurrences. They’re specifically bred to be smaller. In 1997, they were controversially recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA). To date, TICA is the only international cat registry that recognizes the breed. We have put together the best cats with short legs available for sale right now.
Cats With Short Legs
The 5 Cat Breeds with Very Short Legs
Here is a list of some of the most popular cat breed with short legs or Munchkin-hybrids available:
1. Napoleon cat
Named after the infamous French leader Napoleon Bonaparte, the Napoleon cat was developed by crossbreeding the Munchkin cat with a long-haired Persian. This cat breed is also known as the Minuet cat. At first glance, you’ll notice that they retain many of the Persian features, including a round face, round eyes, long hair, and a broad nose.
Cat Breeds With Short Legs
However, they keep the signature short legs of Munchkin cats. Due to their genetics, these cats with stubby legs are prone to many health issues, which they inherit from both their Munchkin and Persian sides.
- Achondrodysplasia (thickened joints, undersized jaw, curved spine, bowed legs, knock-knee posture) – this further predisposes the breed to lordosis and/or pectus excavatum. This is inherited primarily from their Munchkin side.
- Osteoarthritis – Their short limbs increase the risk of osteoarthritis – a condition that causes your cat’s joints to degenerate and become inflamed.
- Brachycephalic syndrome (from their Persian side) – This means they have all the issues of a brachycephalic as well – brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome, epiphora, dyspnea, more likely to experience exophthalmos, and other eye and/or lacrimal duct issues.
- Dystocia – Additionally, they’re more likely to experience dystocia (difficulty giving birth)
- Mastication – This breed may also experience mastication (chewing) issues
2. Munchkin – Cats With Short Legs
With their stubby Cats With Short Legs and adorable expressive faces, Munchkin cats are a breed that you’ll immediately recognize. They are lovingly referred to as “Sausage Cats” and stand out because their shortened legs resemble the Dachshund or Corgi.
Though small, these little cats are mighty. They don’t behave differently from an average-sized cat and hold the same amount of attitude as any other lively kitty.
Munchkin cats are extremely outgoing and active, which means they require a good amount of attention. They don’t realize that they are smaller than most cats or act out because of their height (or lack thereof). Instead, they find new ways to lovingly wreak havoc and entertain their families.
Munchkin Kittens For Sale
3. Skookum cat
Skookum cats are another Dwarf hybrid, but this time, they’re crossed with the Curly LaPerm Cats With Short Legs. The Skookum varies quite a bit regarding their coat and color variations and can be either short or long-haired. However, there are a couple of traits they normally share.
Their tails are uniquely long and plumed at their rounded tip, and their front legs are short and more compact. Like Munchkins, Skookums are considered great family cats due to their affection, intelligence, and playful nature.
4. Lambkin cat
Like the Skookum, the cute furry Lambkin is still considered an experimental breed and not recognized by any major cat organizations. They’re produced from a Munchkin and a Selkirk Rex, and the little tyke has an anecdotally explosive personality.
Cats With Short Legs
If you are considering getting a Lambkin, you’ll need to understand the challenges that come with them. Much like the Munchkin, they are incredibly prone to spine and other skeletal system deformation issues. Therefore, it’s important to carefully select the breeder you wish to adopt this breed from.
5. Kinkalow cat
Out of all of the Munchkin hybrids, the Kinkalow is among the rarest. It’s a cross between an American Curl cat and a Dwarf Munchkin. The Kinkalow is a cute little rascal, too.
They have the Cats With Short Legs of a Munchkin cat, the up-turned curled ears of the American Curl, and a long straight tail. The breed is also known for being very playful and kind-hearted, making them excellent family cats.
