Adopting a Cat with Dwarfism

Adopting a cat with dwarfism can be a heartwarming experience, but they come with responsibilities. These adorable felines typically have other health conditions and physical needs that accompany their unique size and design. Potential adopters will also need to think about mobility differences compared to other cats, such as not being able to easily jump up onto cat trees or furniture. 

We chatted with Dr. Josh Smith, a small-animal veterinarian and owner of Pawspital Animal Hospital in Meridian, Idaho, about what feline dwarfism entails. While cats with dwarfism may require extra care and attention due to potential health issues associated with their condition, they can still lead happy, comfortable lives. 

Types of feline dwarfism

There are three main types of dwarfism in cats: pituitary, skeletal (osteochondrodysplasia), and selective (munchkin).

Pituitary dwarfism cats

Pituitary dwarfism in cats is extremely rare. But if your cat has this condition, be aware that it can come with a variety of other health issues. “[It’s] caused by an issue with the pituitary gland resulting in a deficiency in growth hormone, which can lead to stunted growth and hormonal imbalances,” Dr. Smith explains. 

These cats are typically smaller in size and usually have other problems such as delayed dental development and poor coat quality. Dr. Smith says that hormone-replacement therapy throughout a cat’s life is available, but this can be complex and expensive.

Skeletal dwarfism

Skeletal dwarfism is caused by abnormalities in a kitten’s bone growth and development, leading to disproportionately short limbs and overall size. Unlike pituitary dwarfism, skeletal dwarfism is caused by genetic mutations in the bone and “may not impact other aspects of their health as severely,” Dr. Smith explains. Cats with this type of dwarfism can live a normal lifespan, but pet parents should keep mobility challenges in mind. Because of their unique skeletal structure, normal jumping and playing may not be as easy for these kitties.

Cat dwarfism vs. munchkin

While the term “cat dwarfism” is used for any condition leading to a small-seeming size, Munchkin cats are actually a specific breed who were bred for their short legs (also due to a genetic mutation). Breeders selectively choose cats with this gene, hence the “selective dwarfism” name. “Munchkin cats are generally healthy, though they can still face specific health risks associated with their genetics, like spinal problems,” Dr. Smith says.

Dwarfism in cats signs and symptoms

Signs of a cat with dwarfism are pretty easy to spot, such as being smaller in size. Here are other symptoms of dwarfism in cats to look for. 

• Enlarged joints — With genetic mutations not allowing the bones to fully grow, joints are predisposed to arthritis and overcrowding.

• Poor growth or lack of growth — They look more like kittens, even as adults, and some have problems with slow-growing teeth or coats. 

• Reduced mobility — Thanks to their short legs and possible spinal problems, dwarf cats will have trouble moving around as easily as their fully grown counterparts.

• Potential health complications — Cats with pituitary dwarfism may display skin, coat, dental, spinal, and joint issues.

• Larger than normal head — Thick, large heads are seen typically in cats with pituitary dwarfism because of hormone deficiency.

• Curved limbs or spines — Front legs that bow outwards are common, along with awkwardly curving spines.

How to treat dwarfism in cats

The treatment and management of your cat with dwarfism will vary widely depending on the type of dwarfism and severity of the resulting health problems.

• Regular vet care — Regular veterinary checkups are critical for monitoring growth and any extra health concerns.

• Dietary needs — Special diets or supplements to support joint health and growth are usually recommended.

• Pain management — Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers are often given to cats with dwarfism to ease joint and bone pain.

Adopting a cat with dwarfism

Beyond veterinary care considerations (especially with pituitary dwarfism), potential adopters of a cat with dwarfism should make accommodations in their home. Here are some tips when adopting a cat with dwarfism.

• Keep food and water dishes easily accessible. Dwarf kitties will have a harder time jumping up onto counters or tables, so you may consider keeping bowls on the floor for them.

• Have a low-entry litter box. A lot of litter boxes have tall lips at the entrance to prevent litter tracking when your cat goes in and comes out, but these can be tricky for cats with dwarfism to navigate. 

• Put ramps or steps next to furniture. As with food bowls on counters, jumping up onto the couch or bed can be difficult for kitties with dwarfism. Adding a pet ramp or pet stairs can make navigating furniture a lot easier for them.

• Find ways to play without jumping or excessive running. Using feather teasers or wand toys works for some cats, but dwarf kitties with shorter legs and potential joint issues may not love leaping and chasing after something. Consider kicker toys filled with catnip or stationary, interactive toys like ball towers or puzzle games.

Ready to adopt a cat?

There are rescue groups dedicated to helping less adoptable cats of all ages. Use Adopt a Pet’s search feature to find cats from rescues, shelters, and individuals in your area. If you’re looking to provide a loving home for cats with special needs, you can even filter for cats with special needs. 

Commonly asked questions

Do dwarf cats have health problems?

Cats with dwarfism typically have health issues that pop up throughout their life, such as joint pain, spinal conditions, dental problems, and more. This can vary a lot depending on the type of dwarfism they’re dealing with.

How long do cats with dwarfism live?

Cats with dwarfism can live 10 to 15 years, depending on their type of dwarfism. Cats with pituitary dwarfism frequently face additional health issues, so pet parents should consult their veterinarian for a thorough assessment.

References

Juvenile Hyposomatotropism in a Somali Cat Presenting with Seizures Due to Intermittent Hypoglycaemia

Munchkin Limb Deformity

Osteochondrodysplasia

Pituitary Dwarfism

Skeletal Manifestations of Heritable Disproportionate Dwarfism in Cats as Determined by Radiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

A Structural UGDH Variant Associated with Standard Munchkin Cats