longhair
Lambkin
Origin: United States
An exceptionally rare short-legged cat with a soft, curly lamb-like coat — a cross between the dwarf Munchkin and the curly Selkirk Rex. Sweet-natured, mellow, and devoted to its people.
- Origin
- United States
- Category
- longhair
- Lifespan
- 12–15 yrs
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 2–4 kg
- Coat
- Soft, dense, curly
- Colours
- All colours and patterns
😺 Temperament
🏡 Best suited to
📊 Personality ratings
📜 History & origin
Also known as the Nanus Rex, the Lambkin is one of the rarest cat breeds in the world. It was created by crossing the short-legged Munchkin with the plush, curly-coated Selkirk Rex, aiming to combine dwarf stature with a soft 'teddy bear' coat. The breed is still in its early developmental stages, recognised by only a handful of registries, and very few catteries produce it. Its name reflects the woolly, lamb-like texture of its fur.
🧼 Care & grooming
The dense, curly coat benefits from gentle weekly combing to prevent tangles and to distribute skin oils, but it should not be over-brushed, which can straighten the curls. Lambkins are calm, affectionate cats that thrive on companionship and gentle play; their short legs mean they appreciate easy access to favourite resting spots rather than tall leaps.
🩺 Health notes
The Lambkin inherits the Munchkin dwarfism gene, so ethical breeders never pair two short-legged parents and watch for the spinal and joint issues that can accompany dwarf breeds. With sensible breeding it is a generally healthy cat, needing routine veterinary care, dental attention and weight monitoring.