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!
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Life expectancy |
The Cornish Rex has a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years |
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Temperament |
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Adult size |
Female
Between 11 and 12 in
Male
Approximately 12 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 7 and 9 lb
Male
Between 9 and 11 lb
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Coat colour
Black, white, chocolate, ginger, cinnamon and all dilutions, grey/blue, lilac, cream, fawn etc |
Black
Brown
White
Red
Cream
Blue
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Type of coat
Short, wavy |
Short
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Eye colour
Blue, aquamarine, green, golden yellow, dichroic eyes |
Blue
Green
Yellow
Odd-eyed
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Purchase price |
The Cornish Rex costs between £300 and £500 |
The kittens fur will only develop its curliness at around 5 or 6 months.
More details about the Cornish Rex
Cornish Rex: 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
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.
Cornish Rex: Characteristics
The Cornish Rex will always find an excuse to snuggle against you for warmth.
These cats’ svelte bodies and long legs give them a great ability to climb and mean they run very quickly.
Every individual is different, but typically once they have used up their energy these cats will usually calm down.
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.
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.
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.
Cornish Rex: Behaviour
Always in close proximity, your Cornish Rex may meow to gain your attention.
These cats are more in need of care than exercise.
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.
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!
Breed compatibility Cornish Rex
The company of another cat might bring your Cornish Rex pleasure through the warmth it’s companion will provide. Contact a feline behavioural specialist.
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.
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!
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.
Cornish Rex: Purchase 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.
Cornish Rex: Shedding
Light
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!
Cornish Rex: 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.
Cornish Rex: Health
Around 12 to 15 years on average.
With such a thin coat, the Cornish Rex is very sensitive to the cold, especially when they are young. Kittens must be kept warm.
The playful character of a Cornish Rex means that these cats are unlikely to put on weight but nevertheless, keep an eye on them.
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.
The Cornish Rex has been crossed a lot with Siamese and Oriental cats, as such the females now come into heat more often.
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