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It’s no secret that cats and dogs don’t always see eye to eye. Felines are often caught hissing, growling, and hitting their adversaries. Dogs, in turn, bark, whine, and may bite. However, whether a dog and a cat will get along depends on many factors, including the individual animal’s character, previous interspecies experiences, early socialization, and many more. For example, the Munchkin cat is a loving, caring, and affectionate pet. More importantly, they may often see canines as friends, not enemies.
And the best tool in a pet parent’s hands is, of course, early socialization. With the right approach, it’s very well possible to help the Munchkin cat befriend your doggo, as long as the dog is also socialized with cats. So, how do you build the foundation for that? We have the answers right here!
All About Munchkin Cats
Officially recognized in 1994, yet documented since the 1940s, the Munchkin is a unique-looking cat.1 It has an unusual physical trait called chondrodysplasia caused by a genetic mutation: the legs of a Munchkin kitty are 2–3 inches shorter compared to most felines. However, that doesn’t prevent them from being playful and energetic, although they may be more prone to certain congenital health issues such as lordosis (inward curvature of the spine) and pectus excavatum (hollowed out chest appearance).2 These felines are not only fun but also smart and create very little havoc around the house.
Now, short-legged cats weren’t at all common before the 80s. However, in 1983, a Louisiana teacher found two pregnant cats seeking shelter underneath her car. She kept one of them, and most of her kittens were born with short legs, laying the foundation for Munchkins in the States. This deformation is present in kittens with one pair of the mutated gene and one normal gene copy, which is referred to as heterozygous. Kittens without the mutation will have normally developed limbs.3 Unfortunately, kittens that inherit both mutated genes from their parents do not survive until birth.
Due to the limb deformity and potential for other health issues in this breed, causing ethical debate regarding breeding such animals, Munchkin cats are not recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) or the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA).
Do These Cats Get Along With Dogs?
The short answer is often yes, depending on the individual cat’s personality, age, health, and early socialization.
One of the best things about Munchkin cats is their playful approach to life. They are quick to find common ground, not only with humans, but with most cat-friendly canines as well. While it won’t always be “love at first sight”, Munchkins are often called the best cats to have around dogs. Many cats are afraid or cautious around dogs and either run away and hide, or are uninterested in playing, but it will depend on many factors.
That’s not the case with this breed, though. It’s naturally drawn to all God’s creatures (humans or animals). Even if you have a large doggo in the house, like a Cane Corso or a Newfoundland, it may not really matter much. However, make sure to consider your dog’s temperament as well, and their previous experiences with cats, as not all dogs will be well-suited to living in a household with cats.
How Can You Help “Break the Ice”?
Even if you’re the proud owner of a friendly doggo like a Spaniel or Golden Retriever, you’ll still need to take certain steps to ensure a smooth integration for the Munchkin cat.
- Personality: Before even considering getting a Muchkin cat, alongside being informed about the health issues they may experience, it’s important to consider both pets’ personalities. If your dog is good with cats and has lived with one before, then this will be easier and safer. On the other hand, if you have a dog that is reactive, has never lived with cats, has a high prey drive, or has chased cats in the past, it’s important to first consult a veterinarian or a canine behaviorist or reconsider getting a cat in the first place. When getting a Munchkin cat, speak to the breeder early on and check if their pets are socialized with dogs from a young age.
- Personal space. When the cat first arrives at the house, see that they have their own corner, a safe space where the dog can’t reach them. While the Munchkin is, indeed, an open-hearted, sweet-tempered cat, they might still be a bit intimidated by the canine that’s been living with you for a while.
- Different rooms and bowls. Never let the cat or the dog get close to the other pet’s food bowl or crate, as this may create competition. Besides, the nutritional needs of cats and dogs vary greatly. Ideally, you should keep the cat in a separate room for the first few days or weeks and start with a scent exchange.
- No physical access just yet. Give the pets some time to get acquainted with each other from a distance. Even though the furry buds won’t be able to see anything, the sounds and the odors will give them away. Next, use a glass door to allow them to see each other, but without being able to interact just yet.
- Easy does it. When you’re finally ready to introduce your dog to the new member of the family, do it on neutral grounds, a room that the pets will share later. The dog needs to be leashed, even if it’s a tiny pooch. Do this 2–3 times a day for a week or so to establish a trusting relationship. Reward each pet with treats and words of praise when they exhibit relaxed, curious, and playful behavior to establish a positive association in the company of the other pet.
- The final stage. Alright, now you can remove the leash if the previous step has been consistently successful. Don’t leave the room just yet, though. The moment you notice any signs of anxiety or uncertainty, go a few steps back and try again. Ensure the cat has somewhere to hide if the dog becomes a little bit too much. Yes, this could take a while, especially if the furry friends are adults, not pups/kittens.
Do Munchkin Cats Take Long to Adapt?
Naturally, this breed easily adapts to new faces and environments. So, if you move to a different house or city or introduce them to new pets, the Munchkin generally won’t need months to get used to that. However, Sausage cats don’t like to be left alone for too long. They get attached to their favorite humans quickly and may suffer from boredom or even separation anxiety.
Tips for Keeping a Munchkin Cat Safe
Another thing that makes these felines stand out is their kitten-like behavior. In contrast to most cats that mature quickly, Munchkins stay curious and playful well into their adult years. So, don’t be surprised by a fully-grown Sausage cat’s desire to explore every single corner of the house and “stash” things they like.
- Safety first. Dogs are much stronger than cats, but felines are incredibly flexible and can escape by climbing up a tree, roof, shelf, and whatnot. Sadly, that’s not always the case with the Munchkin cat, as they’ve got short legs. That’s why it’s so important for them to have personal space where they’re 100% safe and undisturbed, as well as hiding spots with easy access, although they are reasonably agile. It’s important to supervise all interactions between your dog and the Munchkin cat.
- Consider the dog’s personality. Some dogs are just not great with cats, and this should be recognized and considered in advance. If you own such a dog, they will NOT be a good match for a Munchkin or any other breed of cat! It’s just not worth the risk. If you’re not sure, speak to a veterinarian or a certified canine behaviorist.
Common Health Problems: A Quick Look
Munchkin cats don’t necessarily have back issues, but compared to other cats, alongside chondrodysplasia affecting their limbs, they can be more prone to lordosis, or excessive curvature of the spine. Some Munchkins will experience pain and discomfort because of this; others aren’t really affected that much. Still, this is one of the reasons why breeding Munchkins is prohibited in many countries.
Here’s a list of the most common health issues, some of which are related to the breed, while others are common to all cats, especially entering older age:
- Osteoarthritis. This disease targets the joints. If your cat is limping, especially if they are older, chances are, they may be suffering from osteoarthritis. Another common sign is when the feline stops jumping up and down elevated surfaces or seems reluctant to do it.
- Hyperthyroidism. Is your middle-aged or older Munchkin eating tons of food yet still can’t seem to gain weight? Then they might have a high metabolic rate caused by spiking levels of the thyroid hormone. When left untreated, hyperthyroidism leads to various health complications, including heart conditions.
- Cancer. A relatively common form of cancer in cats, lymphoma primarily attacks the feline’s kidneys, GI tract, and chest. Chemotherapy is the best remedy here. Unfortunately, lymphoma often comes back. But if it’s not very aggressive and it gets diagnosed at an early stage, the Munchkin will be able to have a relatively normal life in many cases.
- Pectus Excavatum. When the ribs and the chest bones of a cat grow improperly, that could be caused by a congenital condition called pectus excavatum, which is sometimes described in Munchkin cats. Surgery is the only solution here, and it’s recommended to do it while the pet is 8–16 weeks old.
- FLUTD or Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease. This is a common term that describes a wide range of bladder/urethral diseases. If your cat is uncomfortable, straining, or crying when urinating, or you’re seeing blood in the pet’s urine, that means they’re suffering from FLUTD. Other signs include low urine output and constant licking of the private parts. This can be an emergency, especially in male cats, as they are more prone to getting a blocked bladder, a potentially life-threatening condition if not treated in time.
- Kidney disease. The cat’s body uses kidneys to filter and remove toxins from the body. So, when the feline’s kidneys aren’t functioning properly, those toxins build up, causing lethargy, weight loss, decreased appetite, increased drinking, and other side effects. Regular vet visits will help catch it at an early stage, especially in middle-aged and older cats.
- Pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas. Frequent vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, weight loss, and lethargy are all common signs of pancreatitis. This condition is not unique to Munchkin cats, however. It’s recommended to hospitalize the pet where they will be treated with IV fluids and symptomatic medication.
- Heart disease. Unfortunately, this condition often goes unnoticed in cats until they have already developed quite advanced signs of disease, such as difficulties breathing, open-mouth breathing, or sudden and painful hind leg paralysis, all of which are emergencies.
Conclusion
As far as the most easy-going cats go, Munchkins are right at the top of the list. Charming and affectionate, they are near-perfect pets for big families. And, in contrast to many felines, they don’t automatically see dogs as a threat, depending on their early socialization and personality. If you put some effort into socialization and a gradual introduction using positive reinforcement, you should be able to create a beautiful friendship.
Practice patience and adopt a positive attitude and you will see the fruits of your labor. While the Sausage cats are a dwarf breed, they are very curious and energetic. So, don’t rush anything, never hesitate to take a step back, and give the pets time to warm up to each other.
Featured Image Credit: Varvara_Gi, Shutterstock
