The Munchkin cat breed is an unusual-looking cat with very short legs. It originated in the United States and it’s a very rare cat breed, characterized by short legs due to spontaneous genetic mutation .
However, it is this characteristic that makes members of the Munchkin breed so special in the eyes of their breeders and cat lovers .
Munchkin cats are also known as “sausage cat”, “taxi-cat”, “mini-cat”, and “dachshund cat” because of their short legs. They are considered by many to be one of the cutest cats in the whole world.
So, if you’re interested in these unique cats, read on to find out how much does a Munchkin cat cost and learn all about the breed.
How Much Does A Munchkin Cat Cost?
If you want to know how much does a Munchkin cat cost , here’s what you need to know!
The price for Munchkin kittens, bred by famous breeders who have special facilities for breeding these cats, can be between 1000$ and 3000$.
These cats are often raised to participate in the cat beauty shows and to be used for breeding.
A Munchkin kitten from a good, reputable breeder can range in price from $800 to $1,300, depending on a variety of criteria. They may charge $2,000 to $4,000 for one with unique coat colors and champion bloodline pedigree.
Fully-registered Munchkins cost a bit more. If they are fully registered, their price range can be from $600 to $1500 from lesser-known breeding farms.
However, prices for this unusual but popular breed continue to rise as an increasing number of cat lovers want to care for them.
Munchkin cat prices might vary substantially depending on where you source your new pet. However, most breeders advertise their prices, so you can get a fair indication of just how much you need to save.
Most folks with a limited budget wind up adopting a cat from a shelter or rescue organization for $100 to $500.
This rehoming charge is far lower than the cost of a kitten from a reputable breeder .
The most famous animal shelters who allow you to adopt a Munchkin kitten are:
• ASPCA – an average adoption fee of $500-$100
• Specialty Purebred Rescue – an average adoption fee of $100-$500
If you are asking yourselves what the adoption fee is for, it is for keeping the animal shelters running. Taking care of cats can be pretty costly, so these fees cover medication, cat food , veterinary checkups , and many other things.
The Munchkin Cat Breed Info
| Height | 5-7 inches |
| Weight | 6-9 pounds |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | affectionate, friendly, sociable |
| Intelligence | high |
| Coat Color | white, black, blue, red, lavender, lilac, cream, chocolate, brown, cinnamon |
| Coat Patterns | solid, bi-color, calico, tabby, color point |
| Coat Length | shorthair, longhair, hairless |
| Shedding | normal |
| Activity | Level high |
| Average Munchkin | Kitten Price $1000-$2000+ |
Origin
Munchkin cats were discovered in the early 20th century. The first two Munchkins were called Blackberry and Toulouse.
Toulouse was a kitten from Blackberry and they are thought to be the first examples of the Munchkin cat breed .
In 1994, Munchkin cats were accepted into the breeding program by the International Cat Association (TICA).
The Munchkin cat breed is said to be the result of inherited disease and as a result, many people believe it is prone to many health problems due to leg deformities.
However, many Munchkin breeders and veterinarians are of the opinion that members of the Munchkin breed are in no way limited and are not more prone to health problems than any other cat breed .
A fun fact is that they were named after small creatures who had the same name from the book The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum.
Appearance
The Munchkin cat breed has a unique look, characterized by the short legs that are the breed’s main feature. Because of these short legs , their height varies between 5-7 inches, while their weight is typically between 6-9 pounds
As far as the rest of their appearance is concerned, Munchkins may have several different coat colors , patterns, and even coat lengths.
Their coat color may be white, blue, lavender, black, lilac, cream, chocolate, brown, or cinnamon, with different patterns such as solid, bi-color, calico, tabby, or color point.
The coat length of Munchkin cats may vary; they can have short or long coats, and can even be hairless.
So, if you’re a fan of the Munchkin cat , know that you can choose between a variety of coat colors , patterns, and even coat lengths when looking for your perfect one.
Personality
Munchkin cats have an easy-going personality. They’re highly intelligent, which means that they’re very easy to train. Moreover, they’re friendly, sociable cats who are devoted to their owners.
In case you thought that their short legs might prevent them from running around, you will be surprised.
Munchkins are very active, however, they can always spare some time to cuddle in your lap and just enjoy the moment with you.
Furthermore, Munchkin cats are great pets for families because they’re also good with small children and other pets.
Health & Lifespan
Munchkin cats are healthy cats with a lifespan of 12-15 years. However, as with every other cat breed , this one also has certain health issues that are characteristic for the breed.
These health issues include:
• Urinary tract infection
• Heart problems
• Pancreatitis
• Pectus Excavatum – a chest deformity where the bone sink inwards
• Lordosis – a condition where a spine muscle doesn’t grow correctly
It’s also very important to take special care of a Munchkin cat , especially when it comes to feeding. Make sure you create a feeding schedule in order to avoid obesity .
Despite their good health in general, obesity , along with their short legs , may lead to spinal problems and other health issues .
Grooming & Nutrition
As far as grooming is concerned, Munchkins are usually very easy to maintain. However, coat care depends on the length of the coat.
So, short-haired Munchkins may require brushing at least once a week, while long-haired Munchkins will need more frequent attention.
To keep your Munchkin clean and healthy, you should give them an occasional bath, as well as paying attention to ear cleaning and nail trimming to prevent claw infections or other claw issues.
Munchkin cats need to have a balanced diet, just like other cat breeds. Make sure you feed your cat with top-quality cat food that is based on meat and rich in protein.
Quality cat food can also be identified when all processed by-products of animal origin are precisely listed. Organs such as liver, heart, and stomach are considered high quality .
Only a maximum of two to five percent of the ingredients should be of plant origin. Moreover, provide your feline with plenty of fresh water all the time.
Cats are very clean animals, so you should always provide them with clean food and water bowls , litter box , and similar things.
In addition, you should use a low edged litter box so that they can have easier access to it with their short legs.
READ ALSO: Munchkin Cat Breeders In Michigan: Breeders List
First-Year Expenses
Your adventure begins when you buy a Munchkin kitten ! Every cat owner should be prepared to spend a lot of money on a Munchkin kitten , especially in the first year.
First-year expenses mostly consist of healthcare costs and initial supplies – read on to find out more!
• Spaying/Neutering – this surgical procedure refers to the removal of a cat’s reproductive organs, making it unable to breed, and protecting them from possible health issues .
The average price for this procedure is $100 – $200, but most reputable breeders spay/neuter their kittens before their departure.
• Vaccinations – kittens are vaccinated in order to be protected from different diseases. They receive certain vaccinations in the catteries and others are required later. The average price for vaccinations is $50.
• Deworming – this is usually done by the breeders , but in case it’s not, you can expect to pay around $75.
• Vet check-ups – kittens are prone to various diseases. In their early lives, their immune systems are still developing, therefore they’re very vulnerable. Regular vet visits are highly important, and you can expect to spend between $200 and $400 on them.
Until your Munchkin cat reaches her senior years, a yearly checkup is required. Two checkups per year are advised for a Munchkin cat once it reaches the age of 10.
• Pet insurance – pet insurance is very important and can be really helpful, especially in emergency situations. You can expect to pay $180 on pet insurance per year, depending on the level of cover.
Costs Of Initial Supplies
For many individuals, caring for a Munchkin cat is like being a parent. It requires hard work and patience, and also a large sum of money for various things, especially if you’re a first-time cat parent.
So, to make it easier, read on to find out what you need to get before your kitten’s arrival!
• Cat food – you may choose between lots of different types of food for your loving pet, but expect to give around 50$ for the first time .
• Scratching post – cats love to scratch, don’t they? You should provide your Munchkin with scratching posts, especially if you want to keep your cat away from your furniture.
The best choice is a wood scratching post that costs about $25. Do everything right to make them feel at home!
• Pet carrier – Everyone loves to cuddle with their cats all the time. Get a pet carrier and take your feline friend everywhere with you! The average cost for a carrier is typically in the $30 to $40 range.
• Litter box – if you don’t want them to ruin your house, get a litter box ! It costs only about $10-$15 but remember to get one with low sides so that your Munchkin cat doesn’t have difficulty climbing in.
• Food and water bowl – using food bowls to feed your cat will allow you to better control their food consumption. They will also be able to drink as much water as they require.
• Toys – providing your cat with toys will make your loving furry friend insanely happy and playful. You can purchase different types of toys in almost every store for a price from a couple of dollars up to $30.
• Cat bed – provide your feline friend with a comfortable cat bed where they can be warm and feel secure to have sweet dreams.
• Hair brush and nail clippers – excellent tools to deal with your cat’s shedding and claw care. You can buy a great hair brush and a nail clipper on Amazon for about $10.
The following table offers you a summary of all the crucial costs so you can analyze them better!
Summary
| Litter box | $15 |
| Quality cat food | $40 |
| Scratching post | $25 |
| Shampoo | $10 |
| Toys | $30 |
| Hairbrush | $10 |
| Nail clippers | $10 |
| Food and water bowls | $15 |
| Carrier | $25 |
| Bed | $20 |
| The average cost | $200 |
A Munchkin Cat Costs Per Month
Monthly costs can be easier for you to track. However, it all depends on your lifestyle, the brands that you’re going to use, and how much you’ll spend on your furry little friend.
These costs also depend on the cat’s health conditions and her vet visits as well as the use of medications, if necessary.
The following table offers you a summary of how much does a Munchkin cat cost per month!
| Food | $40-$60 |
| Health | $10-$20 |
| Grooming | $25-$50 |
| Pet insurance | $10-$20 |
| Environmental supplies | $15-$30 |
| Toys and entertainment | $10-$50 |
READ ALSO: Munchkin Cat Breeders In New Jersey: Read And Find Out!
Lifetime Expenses Of A Munchkin Cat
A Munchkin cat ‘s annual cost is estimated to be roughly around $2500. However, your cat’s requirements will fluctuate as she ages. As a result, the costs in the first year will differ from those in the following years.
However, considering that a lifespan of Munchkin cats is 12-15 years, you can expect your lifetime expenses of owning one to be around $16,100-$19,700+.
Additional Munchkin Cat Costs
You should always pay attention to the possibility of sudden additional costs, and be prepared for them. Some of these additional costs may include:
• Pet nanny service – if you’re going on a vacation and you don’t have anyone that can take care of the cat for a few days, then you should look for a pet nanny service. This could cost you between $30 and $50 per day.
• Emergency treatments – if you don’t have pet insurance, then you should be prepared for emergency situations. If your cat gets injured, you can expect to pay a lot of money, however, it all depends on the type of injury and the cat’s condition.
• Household damages – your cat may damage your furniture or other things. That’s why it’s important to train your cat properly and provide her with scratching posts and other interesting toys that will redirect their attention from the furniture.
• Behavioral training – if you don’t know how to train your furry companion properly, and you find that you cannot control its behavior, then the best thing to do is to invest in behavioral training.
READ ALSO: 3 Best Munchkin Cat Breeders In North Carolina – Check It Out!
Money-Saving Tips For Munchkin Owners
Being a cat parent isn’t easy; there are a lot of expenses. However, don’t worry because I’ll provide you with some useful money-saving tips. So, stick around!
• Pet insurance – the best way you can save money is to invest in pet insurance so you can have peace of mind without having to spend a lot of money on emergencies and unexpected veterinary bills.
• Get supplies in bulk – getting supplies in bulk can save you a few dollars because many pet stores will give a discount on bulk orders.
• Don’t go to pet salons -you can brush and bathe your cat at home, as well as learn how to trim their nails, without spending money on pet salons.
• DIY pet toys – you can find a lot of instructions for DIY pet toys that are easy to make, and save some money on buying real toys.
The Price Of A Munchkin Kitten With A Rare Coat Color
Munchkin kittens with rare colors can cost up to $2500 even if it is not cat show quality. The price depends on the exclusivity of its coat color .
Furthermore, a Munchkin kitten with a championship bloodline will normally cost at least $3000. In this instance, with good care and determination, it may become a cat show champion.
However, there are no guarantees of success.
Subtypes Of Munchkin Cats
There are a lot of subtypes of the Munchkin breed. The most popular ones are: Russian Blue Munchkin, Scottish Fold Munchkin, Siamese , Persian and Bengal Munchkins.
Scottish Fold Munchkin
Scottish Folds are amiable, quiet, and well-behaved cats. They are extremely friendly and have a strong relationship with their human family as well as other pets.
They thrive in loud houses with children and/or other cats and dogs, but they also appear to like being the lone pet in a one-person family.
While Scottish Folds like attention, affection, and playtime, they may also be satisfied to spend their days snoozing at home while their owners are at work.
Scottish folds got their nickname from their folded ears. However, not every kitten has folded ears, and because of that, the ones who have are in high demand.
Scottish fold kittens from prestigious breeding lines can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $2,500 or more.
Prices will vary depending on the breeder as well as the cat’s quality, and age.
Russian Blue Munchkin
Russian Blue Munchkins are kind, peaceful, and devoted friends. These are gentle, sensitive, and loving creatures who are acutely aware of their owners’ feelings. They form deep attachments to their loved ones and are loving and faithful to their owners.
The Russian Blue is also known to get along nicely with other house pets and children in the household. They are usually neat and clean.
Average Russian Blue kitten prices range between 1000$ and 2000$.
They are available only in two colors: blue and silver. The top character traits of these cats would be that they are active, easy-going, intelligent, loyal, and playful.
Factors That Affect A Munchkin Kitten Price
So, we listed some initial, additional, and yearly costs of getting a Munchkin. What factors affect a Munchkin cat ’s price? Let’s find out!
Type Of Seller
This is a crucial component in Munchkin Cats pricing. While a private seller or breeder doesn’t need much infrastructure or insurance, a professional cattery and breeding facilities does.
Although it’s always best to research and examine each cattery , Munchkins from a cattery will come with a few assurances.
A cattery will almost always provide you with a vaccinated, microchipped, healthy, and professionally reared kitten.
You will receive all the necessary credentials and the assurance that it comes from a reliable source.
Another advantage of using a cattery is that you may choose a certain breed of Munchkin, such as Persian , Ragdoll , or Scottish Fold .
Dedicated professional cat breeders invest thousands of dollars and many hours caring for their cats. As a result, the more reputable the breeder , the more costly their Munchkin cats .
While a private breeder may frequently generate similar results, it’s sometimes easier to work with a professional cattery , and they usually have both male and female Munchkin kittens available.
Coat Color
Coat color can influence the price as well. For example, the blue coat color appears to be a hot one right now. Black, white, tortoiseshell , and tabby are also popular choices.
However, some rare and popular coat colors , such as chocolate or cinnamon, as well as unusual patterns may impact the kitten’s price.
Gender
Females are in higher demand and cost more since they can breed and reproduce new Munchkin kittens . This implies that if you want to utilize them as breeding stock, you will be able to profit financially when they give birth.
Age
Kittens cost more because they require more care and attention. Similarly, because they are more active and develop quickly, they require more meals and healthcare.
Trademark Legs
The legs of Munchkin cats are the first thing anyone notices. They are considered a trademark of this breed of cat . They are extremely short in relation to the body but at the same time very strong and muscular.
Because of their characteristic short legs , price will often depend on their length. Shorter legs mean higher prices. Often, cat lovers are willing to pay more money for shorter Munchkins.
Genetics
Munchkin cats and kittens raised by respectable breeders are subjected to extensive testing to guarantee that they are healthy enough to be sold to potential pet owners.
Genetic testing, veterinarian checkups , vaccinations , and health certificates, may add to the final cost of the Munchkin cat .
Delivery Fees
If the breeding facility is a long distance away, you’ll have to either drive or pay for transportation to get your new Munchkin cat .
Final Thoughts
This article is a comprehensive guide to buying a Munchkin cat . It includes information about the breed, as well as how much does a Munchkin cat cost .
The Munchkin kitten has slowly but surely grown in popularity in the past few years. Not only are these cool cats popular in the U.S., but they are also favored by cat lovers all around the globe.
There are several factors to consider before purchasing your new pet cat, as owning one is not always easy.
Remember that having this type of cat is a long-term investment. As a responsible owner, your primary objective should be to provide your cat with the best possible living conditions.
By the time your kitten grows up, you will have most of the cat’s toys, bowls, boxes, and so on.
That being said, you will have to spend on premium cat food , new toys, treats, carriers, beds, and a variety of other items that your Munchkin cat will need in the coming years.
So, I hope I have given you some insight into what to expect, cost wise, if you decide to get a beautiful little Munchkin cat !