Kinkalow cat breed: facts, temperament and care
An experimental American dwarf breed that crosses the short-legged Munchkin with the curl-eared American Curl.
Also known as Kinkalow cat, Kinkalow dwarf cat
Quick facts
| Origin | United States |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Typical weight | 3-7 lb (1.4-3.2 kg), as reported by breeders |
| Coat length | Short |
| Coat | Short or semi-long coat, as in the parent breeds |
| Colours and patterns | Any colour and pattern |
Recognition
| How common | Very rare |
|---|
Temperament and care (1 low, 5 high)
| Affection | 4 |
|---|---|
| Energy | 4 |
| Playfulness | 4 |
| Talkativeness | 3 |
| Grooming needed | 2 |
| Shedding | 3 |
| Good with children | 3 |
| Good with other pets | 3 |
| Happy alone | 2 |
| Trainability | 4 |
| Suits a small home | 5 |
Allergies and health
| Allergies | No breed is hypoallergenic. Short or semi-long coats shed, and people who react to cats are likely to react to this one. |
|---|
Best suited to
| Suits | Someone who knowingly wants an experimental dwarf cat and has weighed the welfare debate. |
|---|---|
| Less suited to | Anyone concerned about dwarf cat welfare, or who lives where dwarf-cat breeding is restricted. |
About the Kinkalow
The Kinkalow is a dwarf cat created in the United States in the 1990s by crossing the Munchkin with the American Curl. Breeders credit a woman named Terri Harris, who set out to see what the cross would produce. The name joins the kink of the curled ears with the low body. The cat has short legs from the Munchkin and ears that curl backward from the American Curl.
The breed is experimental. TICA lists it in an experimental category rather than as a championship breed, and the CFA does not recognise it. A small registry for rare and exotic cats, REFR, accepts the cats. Kittens in a litter may differ in leg length and ear shape, so not every kitten looks like the breed picture. Cats without curled ears would not meet the standard.
Temperament and living with one
Descriptions of the Kinkalow suggest a friendly, lively and curious cat, and the parent breeds are known for similar traits. It likes company, plays energetically and reaches the ground and low furniture easily. Little formal information exists, so temperament varies with the individual and with the line.
Short legs limit high jumping. Provide ramps, steps and low perches, and keep a close eye on a kitten around stairs.
Care: coat, food and play
The coat depends on the cat. Short coats need a weekly comb, and semi-long coats need combing a couple of times a week. Clean the curled ears gently when they are dirty, and ask your vet how. Trim nails and check teeth.
Feed a complete diet in measured portions, because a small, short-legged body shows weight gain quickly. Offer daily play on the floor and low climbing.
Health
No health studies exist for the Kinkalow. Both parent breeds raise questions. Munchkin short legs are the subject of a welfare debate, with concern about the spine and joints, and some countries and registries refuse to recognise dwarf cats. Curled ears can trap wax and debris. A vet can advise on spine, joints and ears. Ask any breeder for written health information and the parentage of the kitten, and check local law before buying.
Is it right for you?
The Kinkalow is for an owner who accepts the breed is experimental and the evidence is thin. If you like curled ears, the American Curl is established, and for short legs the Munchkin has a longer record, though it carries the same welfare debate.
Profile last reviewed November 7, 2026