Munchkins are hardy, playful cats that mostly need what any cat needs with a few sensible tweaks for their short legs and long backs. Here’s how we raise ours and what we teach every new owner.

Setting up before your kitten arrives

• Low-sided litter box. A shallow entry makes it easy for short legs to climb in. Keep it on the same floor your kitten spends most time on.
• Shallow food and water bowls. Deep bowls force a Munchkin to reach; wide, shallow dishes are more comfortable.
• Ramps and steps. Instead of one big jump to the couch or bed, give them a small step or ramp. It saves their joints over a lifetime.
• Soft landings. Rugs or mats near favorite perches reduce impact.

Feeding

Feed a complete, balanced kitten food (wet, dry, or both) appropriate for their age, then transition to adult food around 12 months. The single most important thing you can do for a Munchkin’s long-term health is keep them lean extra weight puts real strain on their joints and spine. Measure portions, go easy on treats, and check in with your vet on body condition.

Grooming

• Short-haired Munchkins: comb once a week with a fine-tooth comb to remove loose hair.
• Long-haired Munchkins: comb about twice a week with a wide-tooth comb to prevent mats and tangles.
• Everyone: routine nail trims, ear checks, and dental care. An occasional bath is fine but rarely needed.

Play and exercise

Munchkins are fast, curious, and love to chase. Aim for around 30 minutes of active play a day, split into short sessions. Wand toys, balls, and puzzle feeders are ideal. They can jump and climb in smaller steps, but you should design their environment so they don’t need to make big leaps or hard landings — that’s where cat trees with wide, closely-spaced platforms and ramps earn their keep.

Vet care

Keep up with your kitten’s vaccination schedule, parasite prevention, and annual (later, semi-annual) wellness exams. Because this breed carries a higher risk of joint issues as they age, ask your vet about monitoring mobility and, when appropriate, joint support. Watch for limping, stiffness, reluctance to play, or changes in how they move, and have any of these checked promptly.

The short version

Low bowls, low litter boxes, ramps for the big jumps, a lean body, and steady vet care. Do those, and your Munchkin will pack a huge personality into a small, happy package.