What are miniature cats?

Munchkins are the only existing miniature or dwarf cat breed. They are short in stature because of the hypochondroplasia or pseudoachondroplasia gene, which causes them to have shortened legs and a proportionate body. Though they are short, their weight is similar to a typical cat at 4 to 9 pounds.

Munchkins are controversial in some breeding circles because their defining short-legged trait is the result of a genetic abnormality. They were not recognized by any association until The International Cat Association (TICA) recognized them in 1995. As of 2014, Munchkins are still not recognized by Fédération Internationale Féline, Governing Council of the Cat Fancy or Cat Fanciers' Association.