Cat Breeds With Short Legs: 10 Most Popular Short-Legged Felines

Vertically challenged cats need love too! Our feline friends may be known for their long legs, agile frames, and ability to jump long distances, but there are plenty of adorable short-legged cat breeds out there too. For anyone looking for a more a more fun-sized pal to have around the home, look no further. We have created the perfect all-you-need-to-know guide on cat breeds with short legs. Enjoy!

History of Cat Breeds With Short Legs

The first known reference to cats with short legs dates back to 1930s England, including feral felines, and just one year later experts discovered a hereditary disease that was linked to the phenomenon. By the mid-1940s, there were plenty of short-legged cats roaming around England, with some claiming there had been as many as four generations by that point.

In 1944, Dr. H. E. Williams-Jones wrote in a veterinary journal about an eight-year-old black cat observed in England that appeared to be completely normal apart from the fact it had short legs, a trait which was shared by some siblings, the mother, and the grandmother.

German author, Max Egon Thiel, wrote about a short-legged cat he came across in 1953, Stalingrad and he gave it the nickname ‘Stalingrad Kangaroo Cat’.

Short-legged felines can come in all shapes and sizes, with some having four short legs and some only having the short gene in their front two. Some even have normal-length hind legs but shorter, thicker paws.

In 1995, Munchkin cats were officially recognized by TICA (The International Cat Association), but this created somewhat of a stir. Some claimed that short legs could create health and mobility problems for cats, making breeding controversial. As a result, many other associations have decided not to recognize short-legged breeds such as the Munchkin.

Despite this, the short leg phenomenon remains popular to this day.

Top Ten Short-Legged Cat Breeds

Munchkin

The daddy of the short-legged feline world. Plenty of short-legged breeds have been created using the Munchkin as a breeding parent. They live for between 12 and 15 years and come in a wide variety of colors. They are known for being relaxed yet outgoing while also being an affectionate presence around the home. Unlike some other breeds on this list, the Munchkin cat has short legs but normal-sized bodies and tails. Fortunately, there do not seem to be any negative health implications of their short legs for Munchkins. If you are looking for a happy short-legged kitty to have running around the place that enjoys being around humans, then look no further than the Munchkin.

Genetta

The Genetta cat breed lives for between 9 and 12 years and is known to be a friendly bundle of energy to have around the home. They come in a variety of colors, including silver, brown, black, and snow spotted. The Genetta is a dwarf breed of cat and is a popular pet in America at the moment, with its wild but adorable look. It is created by breeding the likes of Munchkins, Bengals, and Savannas to combine the wild coat with the short legs. The Genetta loves playtime and will chase lasers, balls, and toys for as long as you will let them. They also enjoy spending a lot of close time with their favorite humans, so expect plenty of snuggles and little legs following you around.

Minuet

The Minuet cat lives for between 9 and 15 years and has a wide variety of colors. They are known for being a very loving and kind bundle of energy to have around the home. The Minuet breed was first created back in the 1990s and is also often referred to as the Napoleon. The Minuet has some great traits from either parent, inheriting the calmness and kindness of the Persian but the high energy of the Munchkin parent. They are known to be very affectionate pets and love interacting with their favorite humans. Minuets are what we call one-person cats. That means they will likely imprint on their favorite human (probably the one who feeds them and plays with them most) and will spend the vast majority of their time focused on that one person. So, if you are the Minuet’s chosen one, be prepared for them to follow you around the house and climb up onto your lap for as many snuggles as possible.

Dwelf

The Dwelf Cat lives for between 8 and 12 years and is known for being a very friendly and social presence to have around the place. They predominantly come in natural or black colors. Not only is the Dwelf a short-legged breed, but it is also a hairless breed too. Because they lack the natural warmth of hair, they like to spend their time in the warmest areas of their homes. Often, that ends up being the laps of their favorite humans. Some experts have criticized Dwelf cat breeding as they believe it is unethical to create short-legged, hairless cats, but they are actually growing in popularity across the world.

Skookum

The Skookum Cat Breed often lives for between 10 and 15 years, with a wide range of colors and a very appealing personality. This breed is known for being very relaxed and easy-going, but also remarkably clever. It is a relatively new breed, having only been created back in the 1990s, but it is growing in popularity. What they lack in height, this short-legged feline more than makes up for in playfulness. Much like the Genetta, they will chase balls, toys, and lasers until their little legs can’t move anymore. They also enjoy spending time curled up on your lap. Skookums can even be taught tricks, thanks to their big brains!

Kinkalow

The Kinkalow Cat lives for between 10 and 15 years and is known as a kind and playful friend. Although their coats come in bi-color and tri-color, the predominant shades are black and white. The Kinkalow is a particularly cute breed, coming from the Munchkin and the American Curl and creating a short-legged feline with adorable, curled ears. The Kinkalow gets its playful and loving qualities from both Mom and Dad, and they love nothing more than receiving attention from their favorite humans. This is one of the more unique-looking breeds on our list and is certain to melt your heart.

Minskin

The Minskin Cat lives for between 12 and 15 years and comes in a wide variety of different colors. The breed is known for being very loving and playful, but also for having an outgoing personality. Although they are almost completely devoid of hair, they still come with different patterns. They are very unique in their appearance, but extremely cute with their large kitty eyes and tiny frames. In fact, the Minskin manages to keep that kitten cute look throughout its 12–15-year lifespan. This breed is known to be very loving and affectionate with its favorite humans. The only downside is that the Minskin is hard to get hold of since the breed is so rare.

Bambino

The Bambino Cat lives for between 12 and 15 years and comes in a selection of colors, including brown, black, cream, and white. They are known to be very clever little felines who love spending time with people and showcasing their near-limitless affection. The Bambino is yet another hairless kitty with unusually short legs, but their skin still retains the color of a normal cat’s fur. One of their most eye-catching features is, ironically, their eyes, which are usually a piercing and beautiful shade of blue. If you are looking for an affectionate four-legged friend, then look no further. However, be prepared to take on a clever little kitty, because their big brains may lead them to some cheeky behavior if they don’t get their own way.

American Curl

The American Curl Cat lives for between 9 and 13 years and comes in a wide variety of colors. They are known for being outgoing, active, energetic little cats to have around. As the name suggests, the American Curl Cat is famous for its cute, curly ears. They are currently very popular in America, with growing popularity around the globe. Both the short legs and curled ears are a result of a mutation, but not one that has any negative impact on general health. The American Curl Cat is often compared to an owl due to its appearance.

Lambkin

The Lambkin Cat lives for between 12 and 14 years and comes in a variety of colors. They are known for being very laid-back, gentle, and relaxed kitties. As such, they will often find their nearest loved one and curl up for a good snuggle. In fact, they often scan the room and search for someone who is sitting down just so they can find a prime spot on their lap. If you’re looking for a cat that loves human touch, always allows pets, and enjoys being carried, then look no further. The long fur also makes it the perfect cuddle buddy.

Possible health-related issues

Although there are some concerns about whether short-legged cats should be bred due to their genetic mutation, there is less evidence to suggest that it actually impacts their general health at all. Short-legged cats may behave a little differently from their long-legged cousins, simply because they are a little more limited when it comes to running, jumping, and climbing. However, their legs should not hamper their health. You should only ever seek out a reputable breeder, as issues with joints and spines should not be carried into the breeding pool.

That being said, short-legged cats do suffer from many of the same common health concerns as normal-sized cats, so you should take them on regular visits to the vet. You can also ask your vet about your short-legged cat breed for any breed-specific advice.

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