The Napoleon, now officially known as the Minuet, is a hybrid dwarf breed developed in the 1990s by breeder Joe Smith, who aimed to create a short-legged cat with the luxurious coat and round face of a Persian. The breed was developed by crossing a Munchkin with a Persian, Exotic Shorthair, and Himalayan to achieve a unique combination of features.
The breed was first recognized as the Napoleon Cat but was later renamed Minuet in 2015 by The International Cat Association (TICA). Despite being a relatively new breed, it has gained popularity for its adorable teddy-bear-like appearance and affectionate personality.
Due to its charming looks, sweet personality, and manageable size, the Napoleon has quickly gained a following among cat enthusiasts who appreciate unique, affectionate, and easygoing cats. However, the breed remains rare compared to its parent breeds.
The Napoleon (Minuet) is a small, well-balanced cat with short legs and a round face, giving it a kitten-like appearance throughout life.
• Coat: Can be short-haired (plush like the Exotic Shorthair) or long-haired (silky like the Persian).
• Colors: Found in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid, tabby, bi-color, and pointed.
• Size: Small to medium-sized, weighing between 5 to 9 pounds.
• Head & Expression: Round, doll-like face with large, expressive eyes and a short nose.
• Ears: Medium-sized and slightly rounded, set wide apart.
• Legs: Short due to Munchkin genetics, but strong and proportionate.
• Body: Compact, well-muscled, and low to the ground, making them agile despite their short stature.
The Napoleon is known for its affectionate, social, and gentle personality, making it an ideal lap cat and family pet.
• Loving and Social: Enjoys being close to people and snuggling.
• Calm but Playful: More laid-back than the Munchkin but still enjoys chasing toys and playing.
• Highly Intelligent: Quick learners who enjoy interactive toys and gentle training.
• Good with Children and Other Pets: Gets along well with dogs, cats, and kids.
• Quiet and Gentle: Not overly vocal, but purrs often when content.
For those looking for a sweet, affectionate, and adorable companion, the Napoleon is an excellent choice.
• Perfect for Apartment Living: Small size makes them ideal for smaller homes.
• Low Shedding: The short-haired variety requires minimal grooming, while the long-haired variety needs moderate brushing.
• Affectionate and Social: Loves human companionship and attention.
• Great for Multi-Pet Homes: Friendly and adaptable to living with other animals.
• Always Looks Like a Kitten: Their round face and short legs keep them looking youthful for life.
The Napoleon requires proper grooming, regular exercise, and a balanced diet to stay healthy and comfortable.
• Grooming:
o Short-haired Minuets require occasional brushing to remove loose fur.
o Long-haired Minuets need regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting.
• Exercise: Needs gentle daily play to maintain a healthy weight and muscle tone.
• Mental Stimulation: Enjoys puzzle toys, climbing trees, and interactive games.
• Nutrition: A high-protein diet supports their muscle structure and energy levels.
• Companionship: Prefers a social environment and does best in homes where they get plenty of attention.
The Napoleon is generally a healthy breed, but due to its Persian ancestry and short legs, some concerns include:
• Brachycephalic Issues: Flat-faced (doll-faced) Minuets may have mild breathing difficulties.
• Joint Sensitivity: Short-legged breeds can develop mild joint stiffness or mobility concerns as they age.
• Obesity Prevention: Proper diet and exercise help prevent excess weight gain.
• Dental Issues: Short-nosed Minuets may be prone to dental crowding, requiring regular dental care.
Compared to the Munchkin, the Napoleon has a rounder face and a softer personality, whereas the Munchkin is more energetic and curious. Unlike the Persian, which is less active and more independent, the Napoleon enjoys playtime and socializing more frequently.
Compared to the Scottish Fold, which also has a sweet, round face, the Napoleon has short legs but does not suffer from the cartilage issues found in folded ears.
The Napoleon is perfect for cat lovers who want a small, affectionate, and visually stunning companion. If you enjoy lap cats, gentle play, and a loving pet that stays kitten-like forever, the Napoleon will be a wonderful choice.
However, if you prefer a highly active or independent cat, this breed may not be the best fit.
United Pet Club is here to help you find the perfect Napoleon (Minuet) companion. Whether you're looking to adopt or connect with trusted breeders, we provide valuable resources to guide you every step of the way.
Explore our platform to learn more about Minuet cats, their history, and how to care for them. Contact United Pet Club today to start your journey with this adorable and affectionate feline!