A Brief History of the Minuet Breed

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The Minuet cat, originally known as the Napoleon, is a relatively new hybrid cat breed developed in the United States in the 1990s. It was created by breeder Joe (Joseph B.) Smith, who was inspired by the short-legged Munchkin cats and wanted to combine that distinctive trait with the Persian cat’s luxurious coat and gentle temperament.

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Smith began crossing Munchkins with Persians (including related Persian types like Himalayans and Exotic Shorthairs), and the first successful litters showing the desired traits appeared in the mid to late 1990s around 1996–1997.

The breed was initially called Napoleon, a playful reference to the famous French leader’s supposed short stature, but in 2015 The International Cat Association (TICA) officially changed the name to Minuet. TICA first accepted the Minuet in its experimental program in 2001, later advancing it through registration stages. The breed achieved full TICA championship status in 2016, meaning Minuets can compete in official cat shows under TICA rules.

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Physical Characteristics of a Minuet

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The Minuet cat is a small to medium-sized breed best known for its short legs, a trait inherited from the Munchkin. Its body is compact and sturdy, with a broad chest and a well-rounded appearance. Despite the short stature, Minuets are agile and proportionate rather than delicate or fragile.

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The head is round and broad, with full cheeks and a short, gently curved nose. The eyes are large, round, and expressive, giving the breed a sweet, open facial expression. Ears are medium in size, rounded at the tips, and set well apart on the head.

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Minuets may have either a long or short coat, depending on their Persian or Exotic Shorthair ancestry. Long-haired Minuets have a dense, plush coat with a noticeable ruff around the neck and a full, plumed tail. Short-haired Minuets have a thick, soft, and velvety coat. All coat colours and patterns are available.

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The legs are noticeably short and thick, with round paws and a low-to-the-ground stance. The tail is medium in length, well-furred in long-haired varieties, and carried level or slightly above the back.

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Overall, the Minuet cat combines the doll-like face and luxurious coat of the Persian with the short-legged build of the Munchkin, resulting in a compact, plush, and endearingly distinctive appearance.

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Personality Description of a Minuet

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The Minuet cat is known for its sweet, gentle, and affectionate nature. It combines the calm, laid-back temperament of the Persian with the playful curiosity of the Munchkin, resulting in a friendly and easy-going companion. Minuets are typically people oriented and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are affectionate without being overly demanding, often following family members from room to room or settling nearby for quiet companionship. Many Minuets enjoy cuddling and being held, especially once they feel secure and bonded.

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Despite their short legs, Minuets are playful and curious. They enjoy interactive toys and gentle games and can remain kitten-like in spirit well into adulthood. While they may not jump as high as longer-legged breeds, they are still active and enjoy exploring their environment at ground level. They are generally calm and well-mannered, making them well suited to indoor living. Minuets tend to adapt well to different households, including families with children or other pets, as long as they are treated gently and introduced properly.

 

Overall, the Minuet cat is a loving, sociable, and adaptable breed that thrives on companionship and a relaxed home environment, making it an ideal choice for owners seeking a gentle and affectionate feline companion.

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