Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex has a body like a greyhound, long and svelte, with large ears that make this cat unique. This breed is also unusual due to the texture of their hair. Like a light down with slight ripples and curls. Even their whiskers are curled!
Key facts about the Cornish Rex
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Origins and history
The Cornish Rex was born on a farm in Cornwall (UK). The first kitten displayed frizzy hair, reminiscent of Rex rabbits. As this genetic mutation is recessive in nature, it took many inbreeding crossings to maintain this coat. Of course, breeding with other breeds such as the Siamese or the Burmese, for example, has diversified this new breed that was first recognised in 1967 in England.
Physical characteristics of the Cornish Rex
Adult size
Female : Between 11 and 12 in
Male : Approximately 12 in
These cats reach their adult size at around 1 year.
Weight
Female : Between 7 and 9 lb
Male : Between 9 and 11 lb
Coat colour
Black, white, chocolate, ginger, cinnamon and all dilutions, grey/blue, lilac, cream, fawn etc
All colours are recognised for this breed.
Type of coat
Short, wavy
Eye colour
Blue, aquamarine, green, golden yellow, dichroic eyes
Description
The Cornish Rex is an average sized cat, with a fine skeleton and long legs. But fear not, this is not a fragile cat, thanks to its strong muscles. This is what has earned it the nickname the “greyhound cat”. Their immense eyes and ears are as entertaining as they are charming. When you stroke these cats, you will undoubtedly succumb to the softness of their fur. Free from hair, this cat only has a velvety undercoat.
Good to know
The kittens fur will only develop its curliness at around 5 or 6 months.
Temperament
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Affectionate
The Cornish Rex will always find an excuse to snuggle against you for warmth.
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Playful
These cats’ svelte bodies and long legs give them a great ability to climb and mean they run very quickly.
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Calm
Every individual is different, but typically once they have used up their energy these cats will usually calm down.
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Intelligent
This smart cat will look for more than one opportunity to demonstrate its abilities. So why not teach you cat some tricks? It's also a way to build a close relationship with your four-legged companion.
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Fearful / wary of strangers
The Cornish Rex is usually interested in new people, but these cats may be discreet and reserved at first. By letting your Cornish Rex choose the right time to come and meet newcomers, there is a better chance that they will trust them.
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Independent
Solitude is not one of this cat’s strengths. Their weakness to the cold will lead them to spending most of their time with you, making them less independent than other breeds.
Behaviour of the Cornish Rex
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Chatty
Always in close proximity, your Cornish Rex may meow to gain your attention.
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Need for exercise / Sporty
These cats are more in need of care than exercise.
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Tendency to run away
Their lack of a coat means that the Cornish Rex is not well adapted for the outdoors. Once your cat has experience some of the cold winter’s air, it won’t go far.
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Greedy / Gluttony
A Cornish Rex always finds something to do other than eat if you change their environment to encourage them to explore and have fun. Use lots of toys, play hide-and-seek games with food throughout your home, play interactive games together and you'll both be winners!
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Is the Cornish Rex right for you?
take the testCompatibility
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Cornish Rex and cats
The company of another cat might bring your Cornish Rex pleasure through the warmth it’s companion will provide. Contact a feline behavioural specialist.
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Cornish Rex and dogs
All cats can be more or less curious of dogs. The way in which they are introduced, and how good you are at overseeing them will determine how your cat and dog will get along.
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Cornish Rex and children
Children will learn a lot from growing up with a Cornish Rex. It is quite likely that your Cornish Rex will curl up with their stuffed toys!
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Cornish Rex and the elderly
Cats of this breed come across as very affectionate in their endless search for body warmth, which makes them great companions for relaxed people. However, you must ensure that you can meet this cat’s needs for activity. Adopting a slightly older Cornish Rex would be a good choice if you are looking for a calmer cat.
Price
The average price of a Cornish Rex kitten is between £300 and £500. This price often varies according to the pedigree, the breeder, the age or even the sex. It will cost on average £30/month to provide for their needs, to ensure a high quality diet and to buy products recommended by your vet.
Grooming
A light weekly brushing will suffice because these cats do not really lose their undercoat. Be sure to monitor their skin more regularly to ensure there is no redness or other abnormalities. In addition, it is advisable to regularly clean the ears and eyes of this cat: small secretions may appear and should not be left to accumulate.
Shedding
The Cornish Rex’s light down is unlike the fur of other cats, you will very rarely find any of your cat’s hair on your clothes!
Nutrition of the Cornish Rex
To keep your cat in good health, its is important to maintain a high quality diet as recommended by your vet.
Health of the Cornish Rex
Life expectancy
Around 12 to 15 years on average.
Strong / robust
With such a thin coat, the Cornish Rex is very sensitive to the cold, especially when they are young. Kittens must be kept warm.
Tendency to put on weight
The playful character of a Cornish Rex means that these cats are unlikely to put on weight but nevertheless, keep an eye on them.
Common illnesses
This cat is susceptible to feline diseases like any other cat.
Some illnesses are linked with their genetics such as:
- Progressive atrophy of the retina is a disease that can cause blindness in this breed. A screening test is available.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy results in thickening of the heart muscle. This causes heart failure that can result in arrhythmias or lung edema. Screening is done by means of an echocardiography examination, which is usually carried out annually. A treatment can be administered to reduce discomfort.
- Dermatosis, that is, skin diseases such as red spots, can be found in this breed. It is advisable to consult your vet at the slightest abnormality.
Reproduction
The Cornish Rex has been crossed a lot with Siamese and Oriental cats, as such the females now come into heat more often.