Kinkalow Breed History

The Kinkalow dates back to the middle of the ‘90s, making it a newer feline breed. Development began when a U.S. breeder named Terri Harris began crossing Munchkins with American Curls. Through this experimental program, she simply wanted to see what the result of the cross would be, but she was able to successfully create a new breed that showcased both short legs and curled ears (the two most distinct features of the parent breeds).

The Kinkalow is considered an exotic and rare breed. It received Experimental Breed status from The International Cat Association (TICA), and the breed has also been recognized by The Dwarf Cat Association (TDCA).

If you are considering introducing a Kinkalow into your family, it is important to work with a reputable breeder, as doing so will help ensure the health of your little cat.

The Kinkalow dates back to the middle of the ‘90s, making it a newer feline breed.

Breed Traits

Even though the Kinkalow is a small cat, he can definitely get around just fine. In fact, these kitties are known for their playful personality, and they will have bursts of energy that cause them to run around, play with their favorite toys, and maybe even play fetch. Because this breed is also known for enjoying quality time with their human family, playing with your pet every day is recommended.

In addition to being energetic and playful, these cats are also known for their curiosity and their intelligence. Plus, they are social and eager to please, so they prefer being involved in what their humans are doing. And if you are searching for a cat who will enjoy being petted while snuggling with you, the Kinkalow will not disappoint.

Overall, the Kinkalow has an endearing personality that makes it a great choice for singles, families with kids and other pets, and seniors. When given the space they need to play, as well as the attention and affection that they crave, they make ideal family pets and companions.

Overall Description

When you look at a Kinkalow, you can easily see that this breed is a combination of the physical characteristics of its parent breeds, the Munchkin and the American Curl.

Thanks to the Munchkin, this kitty will be considered a dwarf feline, so he will feature short legs and a long body. Overall, the size of a Kinkalow will be small, and the tail, which is described as elegant, may even be longer than the length of the body. The head can be described as being tiger shaped, and the body can be described as fine yet strong.

Thanks to the American Curl, this unique kitty will also feature curled ears, giving him an adorable look. The ears will curl to varying degrees. Kittens will start off with straight ears like other breeds, but the ears will slowly curl as they grow. However, some Kinkalows never develop the curled ears, even though they carry the gene for them.

Colors

The Kinkalow can feature any color and pattern. This means that you might encounter a Kinkalow that features a white coat, and you might find another who has a chocolate colored coat. Other common colors and patterns include calico, tortie, tabby, gray, orange, cream, and black.

Grooming Requirements

A Kinkalow’s coat can be anywhere from short to long, but it will also be sleek, plush, shiny, and smooth. To help keep your pet’s fur looking healthy, you can simply brush him weekly, so this is a good breed for families and individuals who do not want to spend a lot of time grooming their pets. When you do brush your Kinkalow, though, he is sure to enjoy the attention, so this should definitely become a part of your routine for taking care of your furry friend.

Photo credit: Eric Isselee/Shutterstock; Linn Currie/Shutterstock