Felis catus
Lambkin
Featured photolambkin.jpgThe Lambkin (or Lambkin Dwarf) is an experimental dwarf curly-coated breed combining the Munchkin's short legs with the Selkirk Rex's curly coat. The breed was developed by Terri Harris of Kentucky in the 1990s in the same programme that produced the Kinkalow. The breed name reflects the lamb-like appearance of the curly-coated dwarf cat. The Dwarf Cat Association (TDCA) and Rare and Exotic Feline Registry (REFR) recognize the Lambkin. CFA, TICA, GCCF, and FIFe do not recognize the breed.
Quick facts
- Origin country
- United States
- Origin period
- 1990s Munchkin x Selkirk Rex cross by Terri Harris; experimental
- Coat type
- Curly
- Coat colors
- All colours and patterns recognized (both shorthair and longhair curly varieties)
- Size category
- Small
- Average lifespan
- 10-15 years
- Recognition
- —
Origin
Terri Harris of Kentucky began developing the Lambkin in the 1990s in the same broader Munchkin-cross programme that produced the Kinkalow. The Lambkin combines the Munchkin's dominant short-leg gene (Mk) with the Selkirk Rex's dominant curly-coat gene (Se). The breed name reflects the lamb-like appearance of the curly-coated dwarf cat. Both shorthair and longhair curly varieties are produced from Selkirk Rex outcrosses.
Recognition
The Dwarf Cat Association (TDCA) and Rare and Exotic Feline Registry (REFR) recognize the Lambkin. CFA, TICA, GCCF, and FIFe have not published Lambkin standards. The breed remains rare with limited worldwide distribution. The breed is shown primarily through TDCA and REFR-affiliated experimental classes in North America.
Standard
The TDCA standard describes a small, well-balanced cat with the Munchkin's short legs and the Selkirk Rex's curly coat. The body is moderate in length, well-proportioned despite the short legs. The head is round with full cheeks. The coat is curly across the entire body, including whiskers and eyebrows. Both shorthair and longhair curly varieties are recognized. All colours and patterns are accepted. The Munchkin lethal homozygote constraint applies — all Lambkin cats are heterozygous (Mk/mk) for the short-leg gene.
Sources & further reading (3)
- encyclopedia — accessed 2026-04-30
- encyclopedia — accessed 2026-04-30
- tica-standard — accessed 2026-04-30
Frequently asked questions
What two breeds are crossed to produce the Lambkin?
The Lambkin is a cross between the Munchkin and the Selkirk Rex. The breed combines the Munchkin's dominant short-leg gene (Mk) with the Selkirk Rex's dominant curly-coat gene (Se). Both genes are autosomal dominant.
Is the Lambkin recognized as a championship breed?
No. The Lambkin is recognized by the Dwarf Cat Association (TDCA) and Rare and Exotic Feline Registry (REFR). CFA, TICA, GCCF, and FIFe do not recognize the breed.
Why is the breed called Lambkin?
The name Lambkin reflects the lamb-like appearance of the curly-coated dwarf cat — short legs and tightly curled coat resembling a young sheep. The name was chosen by breed founder Terri Harris in the 1990s.
