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
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
Behaviour of the Cornish Rex
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Compatibility
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.
Names
Good names for a Cornish Rex: Aly, Giovany, Lois, Owen
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