A small, round-faced charmer that pairs the short legs of the Munchkin with the sweet, doll-like looks of the Persian family. Gentle, people-loving and perennially kitten-like.
- Origin
- United States
- Category
- shorthair
- Lifespan
- 12–15 yrs
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 2.5–4 kg
- Coat
- Short or long, soft and plush
- Colours
- All colours and patterns
😺 Temperament
🏡 Best suited to
📊 Personality ratings
📜 History & origin
The breed was created in 1996 by American Basset Hound breeder Joe Smith, who crossed the short-legged Munchkin with Persian and Himalayan lines to produce a small cat with a rounded face and an affectionate nature. Originally called the Napoleon — after the famously short French emperor — it was renamed the Minuet in 2015 to better reflect its dainty stature. It is recognised by TICA, and is bred in both standard (short-legged) and non-standard (longer-legged) forms.
🧼 Care & grooming
Depending on coat length, the Napoleon needs brushing two or three times a week to keep its plush fur free of mats, plus the usual eye-wiping if it has inherited the flatter Persian-style face. Its short legs do not hold it back much — it runs and plays happily — but tall climbs are easier with cat steps. It thrives on company and gentle play, and suits a calm, indoor home.
🩺 Health notes
Because the short-leg trait comes from the Munchkin and the facial structure from the Persian side, responsible breeders manage matings carefully and screen for the conditions associated with those lines, such as polycystic kidney disease. Owners should keep an eye on dental health and weight. With good breeding and routine care it is generally a robust, long-lived little cat.
📸 Napoleon (Minuet) photos
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Photographs from Wikimedia Commons, used under their respective licences.