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shorthair
Skookum
Origin: United States
A tiny, short-legged cat with a distinctive curly coat — created by crossing the dwarf Munchkin with the rex-coated LaPerm. Energetic, affectionate, and endlessly playful despite its small stature.
- Origin
- United States
- Category
- shorthair
- Lifespan
- 12–15 yrs
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 1.5–3 kg
- Coat
- Short to long, curly
- Colours
- All colours and patterns
😺 Temperament
🏡 Best suited to
📊 Personality ratings
📜 History & origin
The Skookum is an experimental dwarf breed developed in the late 1990s by American breeder Roy Galusha, who combined the short legs of the Munchkin with the curly coat of the LaPerm. The name comes from a Chinook trade-language word meaning 'mighty' or 'great' — a nod to the cat's bold, lively personality in a tiny package. It remains a rare, developing breed recognised by only a few registries, and breeders work carefully to maintain genetic health given its dwarf foundation.
🧼 Care & grooming
The curly coat is surprisingly low-maintenance and rarely mats; a weekly comb keeps it tidy, and the occasional bath helps remove loose hair. Skookums are agile and active despite their short legs, and they love climbing and interactive play, so provide plenty of low perches and toys. Their sociable nature means they dislike being left alone for long stretches.
🩺 Health notes
As a dwarf breed, the Skookum carries the same gene responsible for the Munchkin's short legs, and responsible breeders avoid pairing two short-legged cats together to reduce the risk of skeletal problems. Otherwise it is generally a hardy cat; routine vaccination, dental care and weight management apply as for any breed.