Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex is a study in curves. From their curly coat to their arched back and egg-shaped head, there isn’t a straight line on them. They are often called the “Greyhound of the cat world” because of their sleek, racy build and incredible speed.

1. History and Origins: Kallibunker

Like the Devon Rex, the Cornish Rex began with a natural mutation in England.

The Farm Cat Surprise

In 1950, in Cornwall, England, a tortoiseshell cat named Serena gave birth to a litter of five kittens. One of them, a cream-colored male named Kallibunker, had a strange, curly coat.

Genetic Differences

Kallibunker was bred back to his mother to preserve the mutation. Interestingly, when breeders later crossed the Cornish Rex with the Devon Rex, the kittens had straight hair! This proved that the two “Rex” breeds are caused by completely different and incompatible genes.

2. Appearance: The Greyhound Cat

The Cornish Rex looks fragile, but they are hard muscle and bone.

The Coat

The coat is the breed’s hallmark. It is extremely short, soft, and lies in tight “marcel waves” (like a 1920s hairstyle) close to the skin. It lacks the harsh guard hairs of a normal cat, composed almost entirely of the soft downy undercoat.

Body Shape

They have a distinct “tuck-up” (small waist), an arched back, and long, fine legs. They look like they are standing on tiptoe.

The Head

The head is egg-shaped with high cheekbones, a Roman nose (a high bridge), and large ears placed high on the head.

3. Personality: Perpetual Motion

If you want a lazy lap cat, the Cornish Rex is a terrible choice.

High Energy

They are one of the most active cat breeds. They treat everything as a game. They will fetch, race around the house using furniture as a hurdle course, and climb to the highest point in the room.

Use of Paws

They are very dexterous with their paws. They use them like little hands to pick up objects, open doors, and even throw toys for themselves.

Affectionate

Despite their hyperactivity, they are extremely people-oriented. They love to be held and will handle being picked up and hugged better than most breeds. They are great therapy cats because they crave touch.

4. Care and Needs

Warmth

Like all Rex breeds, they lose body heat quickly. They need a warm home and will actively seek out laps, computers, and sunny spots.

Appetite

Because they burn so much energy, they have voracious appetites. However, you must be careful not to let them get fat, as their fine bone structure is not designed to carry excess weight.

Grooming

Their coat is very low maintenance. Hand grooming is often enough. They do not shed much, making them a popular choice for people who dislike cat hair on furniture.

5. Health and Lifespan

Cornish Rex are generally robust cats.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Heart disease is a concern in the breed.

Patellar Luxation

Slipping kneecaps can occur due to their fine leg structure.

Skin Issues

They can be prone to yeast infections or oiliness if not kept clean, though less so than the Sphynx.

6. Is a Cornish Rex Right for You?

Pros

• Fun: Endlessly entertaining and playful.
• No Shedding: Very minimal shedding.
• Affection: Loves to be handled and cuddled.

Cons

• Activity: Can be exhausting for a quiet owner.
• Mischief: Will get into everything.
• Fragility: Needs to be kept warm and safe indoors.

Conclusion

The Cornish Rex is a cat for the active, engaged owner. They are sleek, sophisticated athletes with the sense of humor of a clown. If you invite one into your home, be prepared for a life in the fast lane.