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Do Munchkin Cats Shed More Than Other Cats?

Kristin Hitchcock

By Kristin Hitchcock

close up of white munchkin cat standing

As a breed, munchkin cats will not necessarily shed more than others. However, it will vary from cat to cat. Some shed quite a lot, while others don’t shed much at all. Furthermore, munchkin cats are characterized by their short legs, not necessarily what their coat looks like. Therefore, their coats can vary a bit.

We don’t recommend adopting a munchkin cat if you’re looking for a low-shedding feline. There is no guarantee that these cats will shed less. However, there isn’t any guarantee that they will shed more.

Munchkin cats shed about the same amount as other felines.hepper cat paw divider

Are Munchkin Cats Hypoallergenic?

Munchkin cats are not hypoallergenic. However, there really isn’t such a thing as a hypoallergenic cat 1. When someone is allergic to a pet, they’re allergic to proteins that the pet makes. These proteins are found in their saliva, urine, and skin. Unless a cat is created without these things, they will have proteins and cause allergy symptoms.

Animals often described as hypoallergenic haven’t been found to produce fewer allergy symptoms. (Some studies even found that “hypoallergenic” pets cause worse symptoms.) Instead, this label is largely an advertising ploy—not a medical or scientific fact.

With that said, some cats do produce fewer of certain proteins. These felines are less likely to produce symptoms in some situations. However, munchkin cats do not fall into this category.

munchkin cat is looking away while lying down
Image Credit: Twinsterphoto, Shutterstock

Are Munchkin Cats High Maintenance?

Munchkin cats are characterized by their small legs and their coats can vary a bit. Some with longer hair will be higher maintenance. These cats may shed more and require more brushing. However, those with shorter hair are much less likely to require these things. It all depends on the exact traits your feline has.

Beyond their coat care, these cats aren’t particularly high maintenance. In fact, they are often considered a low-maintenance breed. Despite their shorter legs, they don’t require any special care. In fact, they can get along quite well, and many don’t even seem to notice that their legs are shorter than average.

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What Type of Cat Breed Sheds the Least?

Several cat breeds don’t shed much at all. Therefore, they may be a good option for those who don’t like much fur. However, it’s important to note that these breeds are not hypoallergenic. Those allergic to cats react to the dander of the feline. Even hairless cats will still have dander and cause allergies. Therefore, we still don’t recommend any of these cats if you have allergies.

The Sphynx cat is easily the least-shedding feline, as they are mostly bald. While these cats have a very small amount of fuzz, it isn’t enough to actually “shed.” However, remember that they are not hypoallergenic despite not having hair.

Siberian cats also shed less, despite having long hair. This is one of the breeds that may truly be hypoallergenic, as they produce less of certain proteins. Bengal cats also shed less than other felines. They also require less maintenance, in general.

Siamese cats are well-known for their beautiful blue eyes. However, they also shed less than other felines. Bombay cats also fall into the less-shedding category, though their black coats make their fur appear easier on furniture and clothing when they shed.

grey munchkin cat outdoors
Image Credit: Phannasit, Shutterstock

hepper cat paw divider

Conclusion

Munchkin cats shed about as much as other cats. Their coats can vary widely from cat to cat, as their main physical feature is their small legs. Therefore, breeders are less likely to focus exclusively on their coat (like in other breeds). For this reason, munchkin cats also vary widely in the amount they shed. Some may shed a lot, while others shed very little.


Featured Image Credit: Sviatoslav_Shevchenko, Shutterstock

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