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A tiny, dwarf experimental breed that pairs the short legs of the Munchkin with the curled-back ears of the American Curl — a pint-sized cat that stays kitten-like and playful for life.
- Origin
- United States
- Category
- shorthair
- Lifespan
- 12–15 yrs
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 1.4–3 kg
- Coat
- Short to medium, soft
- Colours
- All colours and patterns
😺 Temperament
🏡 Best suited to
📊 Personality ratings
📜 History & origin
The Kinkalow is a very new and rare dwarf breed developed in the United States by breeder Terri Harris, who set out in the 1990s to combine two distinctive mutations: the short legs of the Munchkin and the backward-curling ears of the American Curl. The result is a miniature cat with stubby legs and jaunty curled ears. Named for its 'kinked' ears and 'low' stature, it remains experimental, recognised only at a preliminary level by a few registries such as TICA's experimental programme, and bred by just a small number of dedicated catteries.
🧼 Care & grooming
The soft coat needs only occasional brushing, but the curled ears should be checked and cleaned gently and regularly, as their shape can trap wax and debris. The Kinkalow is lively and affectionate despite its short legs, enjoying interactive play and climbing — though low, stable perches and steps suit it better than long leaps. It thrives on company and does not like being left alone for long.
🩺 Health notes
Because the Kinkalow carries the Munchkin dwarfism gene, ethical breeders never mate two short-legged cats together and watch for the spinal and joint concerns that can accompany dwarf breeds; the curled-ear gene, inherited from the American Curl, is not associated with health problems when bred responsibly. As a young breed with a small gene pool, careful breeding for diversity and routine veterinary care are especially important.
