"[3] The Minuet cat is characterized by its short legs, as a result of the dwarfism-mutation derived from the Munchkin breed.

Joe had previously bred Basset Hounds, a breed with osteochondrodysplasia;[5] similarly Munchkin cats have achondroplasia.

[18] Due to inheriting both the dwarfism of the Munchkin and the shortened face of the Persian the Minuet is susceptible to multiple health issues relating to both conditions.

[19] The condition causing the shortened legs and enlarged head is known as achondrodysplasia and with common symptoms including thick-looking joints, undersized jaw, curved spine, and a bow-legged or knock knee posture.

[23] Epiphora may occur due to malformation of the nasolacrimal ducts which causes staining and secondary dermatitis.

[25] Their malformed jaw can cause difficulty with mastication; the result is a build up of food which leads to accelerated plaque formation and periodontal disease.

[27] Another condition which occurs due to the anatomical abnormalities is brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome which can cause stridor, sleep apnoea, and even death.