The International Cat Association first recognized the Munchkin cat breed in 1994.
The Munchkin is known for its unusually short legs, which result from a naturally occurring genetic mutation affecting limb development. Modern Munchkin breeding traces to a short-legged cat named Blackberry, found in Louisiana in the 1980s. Her descendants became important to the breed’s early development.
TICA accepted the Munchkin into its new-breed program in 1994. The breed’s short legs do not prevent it from running or climbing, although its proportions make its movement look distinctive. Munchkins can have short or long coats and occur in many colors and patterns.
Recognition by one registry does not mean every cat organization accepts the breed. Breed policies differ because some organizations have concerns about deliberately selecting for unusual body proportions. The 1994 date specifically refers to TICA’s recognition.