Minskin cat

Federations: TICA

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a cat of the breed "Minskin cat" you know certain factors. You must take into account their character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.

the atypical Minskin is the result of the will of Paul McSorley, an American breeder of Munchkin based in Boston (Massachusetts) that one day he set out to create a breed of cat with no hair and short legs, hence the name he gave it, Since “min” is the abbreviation of “miniature” and “skin” refers to your skin.

To achieve your goal, in 1998 crossed a specimen from his kennel with a Sphynx cat (Canadian Sphynx). In fact, the most striking feature of Munchkin cat is having very short legs, while that of the Sphynx is having skin without hair or with hair on the ends (legs, tail, ears and face mask). This crossover allowed him to combine the two characteristics he wanted.

Next, continued his breeding program by introducing the American Burmese cat and the Devon Rex. He wanted to expand the genetic pool and recover certain physical and temperamental traits of these breeds.

How the first generations did not give the expected results, Paul McSorley had to wait until July 2000 to get the first kitten that met your expectations. For the next five years, were born no less than 50 short-legged, hairless cats.

"Minskin cat"

The short legs of the Minskin, characteristic that it shares with its ancestor Munchkin cat, correspond to a delay in the growth of bones that contain. Thus, all four limbs do not grow as large as the rest of the body, which has a medium size.

This is due to a spontaneous genetic mutation associated with a dominant gene.. In other words, an individual only needs to have one copy of the gene to have this particularity. This also implies that kittens can inherit the gene even if only one parent has it..

This morphological characteristic explains that the Munchkin has always been a source of debate and controversy. Following the example of the International Cat Association (TICA) or Livre Officiel des Origines Félines (LOOF), some feline reference organizations have recognized it, but other associations, on the other hand, refuse to take the plunge: the fact that the race is based on a genetic anomaly puts them back.

It is no wonder that the Minskin has inherited the controversies associated with his ancestor: the fact that it is a recent feline breed is by no means the only explanation why its recognition by global or national feline institutions remains almost non-existent at the moment.

The TICA was an exception and recognized it as an experimental breed in 2008. Next, closely followed by the organization's genetics committee, whose mission is to control the work of the breeders and supervise the development of the breeds. In 2019, the organization eventually reversed its decision and no longer recognizes the breed.

The Minskin it is one of the rarest cat breeds in the world. The fact that it is not (yet?) recognized by the main feline organizations does not favor, Obviously, its development, not to mention that some breeders are reluctant to develop a breed based on a genetic abnormality.

Even in his homeland, United States, the Minskin remains unknown. Breeders of the breed can be counted on the fingers of one hand, so the annual number of births is extremely limited.

The Minskin has a particularly original look, and rarely leaves anyone indifferent. Almost hairless, it is small in size and has short legs that keep it close to the ground.

• Male size: 18 to 20 cm.
• female size: 18-20 cm.
• Male weight: 2 to 3 kg
• female weight: 2 to 3 kg

The Minskin it is a medium length dog (semi-cobby). Long but small to medium in size, his body is made of solid bones and strong muscles. The chest is broad and strong. As it grows, keeps her cute kitty look.

The Minskin it is distinguished by its very short legs of equal length. They can make your body appear longer than it actually is, but they do not impede their agility: it is quite comparable to other cats.

The feet are round and compact, in line with the legs and pointing forwards, which gives the cat a solid foundation.

However, It should be noted that this particularity inherited from his ancestor the Munchkin cat is not exempt from debate. It is the result of a genetic mutation that corresponds to a delay in the growth of the bones of the four extremities.

The back of the Minskin it is flat and ends in a tail slightly larger than the body, tapering from base to tip. The tail is somewhat blunt.

Supported by a neck well developed, the Minskin's head is wider than it is long. Its shape is rounded, so much that there is no flat surface. The profile shows a slight stop.

The ears they are especially large and are located on the top of the head or on the sides. They have a wide, open base and a rounded tip.

The eyes they are far apart, they are big, round and open. They give the dog a gentle air that melts those who cross its path, but also an alert and intelligent expression.

The nose it is neither straight nor bulky. It is prolonged in its alignment by a strong and firm chin.

Whisker pads are prominent, and the whiskers themselves can be very dense, scarce or absent altogether.

The Minskin has short fur on the limbs (legs, tail, ears and face mask), while the rest of the body has a small barely visible down or is completely naked. But, the hair on the legs may rise a little on the shoulders, hips or hindquarters. The hair on the temples is very sparse, but sometimes there are tufts of hair at the entrance of the ears. The belly is always totally hairless.

In all cases, this peculiarity is not the result of genetic manipulation or skin disease: it simply corresponds to a natural genetic mutation that has existed for a long time in the feline species, and that in this case he has inherited from his ancestor the Sphynx cat (Canadian Sphynx). The corresponding gene is recessive: to have this particularity, an individual must carry two copies of the gene. This also means that only two parents with hairless or lightly fluffy fur can give birth to offspring that also have these characteristics. (but not necessarily all).

The skin of the Minskin may be wrinkled, especially when he's still a kitten. The texture is similar to that of cashmere.

The coat of the Minskin can be of any pattern and color; there are no restrictions in this regard.

The Minskin not only distinguished by its unusual physique, but also because of his very affectionate character.

In fact, it is an ideal cat for a family, since he loves and seeks the company of humans, being very loving and affectionate with everyone. He is not stingy with his affection, and expresses their attachment by waiting outside the door to greet their owners when they enter. May show slight preference for human referent (the person who cares the most for you), but he is not one of those who are dedicated to a single cat, so he has a good relationship with all members of the household.

They like pampering and care, and they are very good at making themselves understood when they feel the need to be taken care of, without being too loud or intrusive.

Get satisfaction more easily because stroking it is very pleasant: her almost hairless and warm skin gives the sensation of touching cashmere. The absence of a coat makes him seek the warmth of others: doesn't hesitate to snuggle up against one of their own to warm up and soak up the sun.

Very attached to his family, the Minskin can't stand being alone for hours or even days, even if you share your home with another cat or dog.

If you want to adopt this cat, I better have a more homey lifestyle, otherwise you could develop behavioral problems.

The Minskin it is a good companion for children, since he likes to play with them and is patient.

But, not necessarily a good companion for a very restless child. In fact, both its small size and its bare skin make it especially exposed and require it to be treated delicately.

In any case, no cat, Whatever your race, must be left alone with a very young child, without adult supervision: the safety of both partners is at stake.

As this cat is still new and underdeveloped, some character traits remain unclear. This is especially true in his relationship with unknown humans., which can vary greatly from one subject to another.

Waiting to see it clearer, it is important to ensure that you are never forced and that you always have a workaround. A cat tree is an essential accessory to allow you not only to exercise, but also observe the world around you and evaluate situations from above, so that you feel calm. If you want to meet the visitor, can approach him.

Contrary to what her short-legged appearance might suggest, the Minskin is relatively athletic and has a fairly high exercise need.

He especially likes to run, and is capable of going much faster than you would expect. He also likes to climb, and here too its particular morphology does not harm it much.

All this explains that you need a certain space to be comfortable: it is not a matter of living within the four walls of a very small apartment.

To the Minskin he likes children because he is very playful. It is not enough to caress it and give it affection, but you also have to challenge your intelligence through various games. Thus, it is recommended to spend twenty minutes two or three times a day playing with the dog and thus stimulate it not only physically but also intellectually.

Leave interactive toys, like puzzle, it's also a good way to keep you busy when you're out and about.

The Minskin knows how to communicate and make himself understood by his family when he has a request to make, for example if you want a hug. But, not the type to meow excessively (or even for no reason), and the volume of his meows is quite reasonable.

In other words, does not hesitate to express himself when necessary, but he does it gently.

Moving houses or going on vacation does not have to upset a Minskin as much as he usually does with his peers. In fact, his curiosity makes him adapt quite easily to changes in his environment: he does not stop touring his new home and quickly finds his place in it.

Usually, the Minskin has no difficulty living with a travel companion: this makes him a playmate and makes his masters' absences less painful.

But, if the two dogs have not known each other since they are puppies, it is preferable to accustom them in stages, so that everyone can find their place and feel comfortable.

It also, as the Minskin barely has hair, your skin is more prone to small wounds. So, you should check your dog's nails regularly and trim them as soon as they get too long, to prevent inadvertent scratching.

The Minskin gets along very well with canines, If and when, of course, a cat-friendly breed of dog is chosen. Sharing a home with another animal is a great way to give your Minskin a playmate and make him feel less lonely when his owners are away.

Things go better if the coexistence is established from the earliest age of the two protagonists. If that is not the case, it is better to start the relationship gradually, so that everyone finds their place and thus minimizes the risk of conflict.

In any case, it is important to regularly trim the claws of your(s) pet(s), since the absence of hair means that your skin is not really protected: could inadvertently hurt her when playing together.

The Minskin is a suitable jack for a floor, as long as it is large enough to allow you to exercise comfortably. Don't let its short legs fool you: this cat is no less athletic than any other. Can run under the ground, but that doesn't stop you from moving quickly, like any cat. He is also quite capable of climbing and jumping, and does not miss the need to find another route to get where he wants.

On the other hand, the fact that you live indoors protects you from external aggressions: cold, Sun, bad weather… In effect, your almost bare skin can easily be burned by ultraviolet rays in case of prolonged exposure to the sun, and makes you especially sensitive to cold when mercury drops.

Although Minskins they are perfectly in a flat, they are never happier than when they live in a big house with free access to the outside, thanks to a cat flap that allows them to come and go as they please.

But, you have to take certain precautions, due to its lack of fur. When the temperatures are low, it is useful to equip him with a cat coat and/or not leave him outside during the coldest hours. This accessory also has the advantage of protecting your skin, to avoid injury to tree branches, the bushes, etc. During the hot season, it is essential to apply a sun cream designed for felines, and it is better to avoid leaving it in the sun when it is at its peak.

The Minskin needs their owners to be present by their side, and his skin almost or totally devoid of hair makes it need more care and attention.

So, it is a quite demanding breed, not necessarily recommended for a first adoption.

It is clear that the Minskin not a good choice for an unavailable person, since its proximity to its humans means that it does not cope well with their prolonged absences: can cause real separation anxiety.

The problem is less likely to arise if you share your home with another cat or canine representative, but it is still true that it needs human presence and daily care.

Thus, before adopting a cat of this breed, it is important to think about the time that you will be able to dedicate, at the risk of ending up with an unhappy partner.

The Minskin it is very suitable for an older person, as long as you are willing to go the extra mile to take proper care of it, including daily skin care.

They are close to people, loving and cuddly, without being “drinking”. It also, although it is playful, also appreciates long rest periods.

So, cohabitation can be very beneficial for both parties.

As the Minskin has almost hairless skin, sometimes comes across as a hypoallergenic breed.

It's about forgetting that no breed is totally hypoallergenic.. In fact, cat allergies are caused by proteins (especially the Fel d 1, the most allergenic) found in urine, tallow, saliva, perspiration and in certain skin cells. All cats produce them and, Therefore, are likely to cause an allergic reaction.

But, It is true that the fact that the Minskin almost completely hairless means that it does not shed and, Therefore, does not leave allergens everywhere in its path.

Since zero risk does not exist, an allergic person should not do without a test in real life, which consists of spending several hours with the animal you are considering adopting.

What is rare is expensive, and the Minskin is no exception. So, at the time of purchase, far from a budget-friendly breed.

It also, the amount spent on their diet tends to be slightly higher than average. In effect, his lack of hair makes, to maintain a body temperature between 40° and 41°C at all times (that is to say, two degrees higher than most other races), should burn more calories, Therefore, eat more.

"Minskin cat"

As the Minskin it only has hair on the limbs and the rest of the body is completely lacking or covered by a very light down, your skin is especially exposed and requires certain care.

Ideally, clean the skin daily with a soft, damp cloth to keep it healthy. Frequent bathing is also essential.

The Minskin you should bathe approximately once every fortnight. This is because the light fluff that covers the skin is not enough to absorb all the sebum that the dermis emits. (the underside of the skin), and the skin becomes fatty. Washing the skin removes the accumulation of oil and keeps the skin tissue soft and clean. As in the case of any cat, this requires the use of a moisturizing shampoo specially designed for felines.

Once soaped and rinsed thoroughly to avoid skin irritation, a soft towel should be used to dry the cat. An electric dryer is not appropriate, as it can cause burns.

the ears of Minskin should be checked and cleaned weekly. Removing dirt with a damp cloth will help prevent infection (starting with the ear).

This is especially important, since the Minskin has little or no hair to protect it.

as with the ears, it is necessary to check the eyes of the Minskin weekly.

If they are not clean, it is essential to clean the corners with a damp cloth: This will prevent the accumulation of dirt., that can cause disease.

As in the case of any race, maintenance of the teeth of the Minskin. Helps prevent plaque build-up, that can cause not only bad breath, but also serious diseases.

Brushing once a week with a toothpaste designed specifically for small felines is a minimum, but the ideal is to do it daily.

The length of your nails Minskin should be checked at least once a month, even if you have access to the outside. This is because natural wear and tear may not be enough.. If the claws are too long, they can get in the way, break or even hurt the dog. So, if they have grown too much, you have to cut them manually.

It also, like any cat, the Minskin you should be able to scratch whenever you feel the need. So, a scratching post is essential; otherwise, you may have no choice but to fall on the furniture or curtains.

Whether the skin, the ears, the eyes, teeth or claws, caring for a Minskin it's not very complex. But, it is essential to master the correct gestures, at the risk of hurting or even injuring you. So, it is best to learn them the first time from a vet or professional groomer.

In any case, the Minskin has the advantage of loving to be handled. So, easily accept these grooming moments, And he is all the more receptive and cooperative if his master knows how to make these occasions special moments of caresses and tenderness.. Things also go better if you get used to it from a young age.

The completely or almost completely bare skin of the Minskin makes it especially sensitive to low temperatures and sunlight. Although the body of the Minskin is covered by a small, almost invisible coat, this is not enough to protect you from the elements, and not just the weather.

So, during the summer months, you should apply sunscreen to your cat's body and avoid letting it go outside during the hottest hours. This will prevent sunburn, burns and possible skin cancer.

The other way, It is also essential to invest in a small coat to keep your cat warm in low temperatures, or even sickness. In any case, it is best to avoid keeping it outside during the coldest hours of winter, first thing in the morning or in the evening.

There should always be a place in the house where the cat can be kept warm, away from cold and drafts.

As the Minskin it is a recent breed and is not yet widespread, information about your health is missing.

But, like any race, is more prone to certain diseases. In your case, is about:

• The Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which corresponds to a thickening of the heart muscle. May cause respiratory problems, severe fatigue and difficulty exercising. It is caused by a genetic mutation and can be detected by a DNA test. But, it is impossible to know when symptoms will start to appear;
• Lordosis, that is to say, an excessive curvature of the spine;
• The excavated breast, a concave deformation of the rib cage. This leads to compression, which can cause breathing or heart problems;
• Cutaneous mastocytosis, a skin disease causing lesions that require treatment, usually on time. The causes of this condition are not well known..

As in the case of any race, it is essential to go to a trusted breeder to have the best chance of adopting a kitten Minskin healthy. It is also a guarantee that the little feline has been raised and socialized in an environment that allows him to be healthy in the head and legs..

A serious professional will ensure that certain genetic tests are performed on the proposed breeders, to ensure that they are not carriers of a genetic disease that can be passed on to their offspring. It will not hesitate to exclude from its breeding program any individual that presents such a risk..

In addition to the results of the tests carried out on the stallions, must be able to present a certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian, as well as the list of vaccinations administered to the kitten, that have been registered in your vaccination or health card.

Once adopted, the new owner is responsible for keeping the kitten healthy throughout its life.

This includes taking the dog to the vet for a regular checkup.. Once a year is enough for the first few years, but this frequency should be increased as the animal ages.

These checks allow the vet to diagnose potential problems, sometimes even before they appear (and, Therefore, treat them in optimal conditions), but also carry out the necessary vaccination reminders.

They are likely to be carried out without too much difficulty: it is known that the Minskin enjoys handling and is not one to put up a lot of resistance when examined.

The owner must also ensure that their cat is treated for parasites as often as necessary throughout the year.. This preventative effort is essential to ensure that your dog is always protected against parasites., even if I live between four walls. Although the probability is significantly lower, an indoor cat can get parasites.

12 – 14 years.

Like any other cat, the Minskin should be fed a diet that meets their nutritional needs, both quantitatively and qualitatively. This means that it differs according to your age, activity level and health status.

In any case, is distinguished by its appetite, which is slightly higher than that of most of its congeners, as it happens with his ancestor the Sphynx cat (Canadian Sphynx). In effect, his almost bare skin forces him to continuously maintain a body temperature between 40 y 41°C, that is to say, two degrees higher than most other cat breeds. As such, have to burn more calories… and, Therefore, eat more.

This is most noticeable in winter, when you need to feed more, especially if you have access to the outside. In any case, to avoid underfeeding or giving him more than he needs, it is best to consult a veterinarian to find out the daily dose to be given.

Industrial foods can perfectly meet your needs, as long as they are of good quality. On the other hand, you should avoid giving food intended for humans, Unless you select them carefully to match your needs. Not to mention the risk of foods that are popular with humans but toxic to cats.. In other words, although he knows how to soften his owners, they should refrain from systematically giving him food scraps and offering him access to bins, who does not hesitate to delve with relish if the opportunity is offered.

Last, as in the case of any small cat, it is essential that the Minskin have fresh water at your disposal at all times, so you can quench your thirst when you feel the need.

The Minskin it is a very rare recent breed. The fact that it is not recognized by any major feline organization (mainly due to the controversy over the genetic mutation associated with short legs) explain that it is difficult for him to develop.

In fact, in Europe , currently there are no breeders of the breed.

To adopt a Minskin, you have to go to the United States, your country of origin. There are only a handful of breeders there, that they usually offer their little ones between 1.500 and 2.400 USD.

But, adopting a cat abroad implies finding out about the regulations that regulate the importation of pets in the country where you live, to avoid unpleasant surprises. It also, It is important to note that administrative and transport costs will be added to the purchase price.

In any case, the latter can differ considerably depending on the reputation of the breeding, of the line from which the animal comes, but also its intrinsic characteristics, in particular its physical characteristics. This last point justifies the differences, sometimes significant, within the same litter.