The Cornish Rex originates from Cornwall in the UK, where the first of its breed was born in 1950 – with the characteristic wavy coat. The breed quickly gained popularity and has since been bred to maintain its unique characteristics.
Cornish Rex
12-15 years
2.5-4.5 kg (adult male 3.5-4.5 kg and adult female 2.5-3.5 kg)
Approx. 30-35cm
Active, social and intelligent
UK
Almost any colour
Patellar dislocation, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and skin problems
Protect your Cornish Rex with peace of mind from Agria.
The Cornish Rex has a lively and playful nature. They are very social cats, and love to be the centre of attention. Their intelligence makes them easy to teach, and they can often learn to walk on a harness and lead. They can also be taught various tricks and commands.
Cornish Rex cats are also known to be very affectionate. They often develop a close bond with their owner.
Cornish Rex cats usually thrive best as indoor pets, as their thin fur makes them sensitive to our chilly climate. What’s more, their inquisitive and sociable personality can sometimes lead to trouble with neighbours or result in them accidentally hopping into delivery vans or cars. To keep them safe, consider securing your garden with rollers or mesh, or create an enclosed cat run for safe outdoor play.
Cat behaviourist consultant Anna Jönsson Bergstedt gives tips on how to train your Cornish Rex – and keep them active:
The defining feature of the Cornish Rex is its wavy and soft fur, which gives the breed a unique appearance. It is a medium-sized cat breed with a slim and elegant build.
Cornish Rex have long legs and a narrow tail, which is often curved. The head is wedge-shaped with large, high-set ears and almond or lemon-shaped eyes. The Cornish Rex comes in all sorts of colours.
Cornish Rex have long legs and a narrow tail, which is often curved. The head is wedge-shaped with large, high-set ears and almond- or lemon-shaped eyes. The Cornish Rex comes in all sorts of colours.
No cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, but the Cornish Rex is often regarded as more suitable for individuals with specific cat allergies. This is mainly due to its shorter fur, which results in less shedding. Cat allergies are triggered by proteins found in a cat's saliva, skin, and dander (skin cells) that are released into the environment during shedding. If you're considering a Cornish Rex, it’s a good idea to visit a breeder to see how you react before deciding to bring one home.
The Cornish Rex requires relatively little grooming due to its short and wavy coat. Regular brushing helps keep the coat in good condition and reduces the risk of skin problems. Since they are sensitive to cold, it is important to keep them warm, especially during the winter months.
The Cornish Rex is a very curious and mischievous breed. Therefore, think about securing fragile things such as pots, glassware and china before your Cornish Rex goes exploring.
Cornish Rex kittens are very active and curious. They grow quickly and often reach their full size at around one year of age.
When buying a Cornish Rex kitten, it is important that it is vet checked, vaccinated and wormed. You should also receive instructions on future vaccinations, deworming and care advice.
Learn more about caring for your kitten, including how to settle them into their new home.
Last reviewed by Amanda Andersson in June 2024.
Adam Jolley is a writer specialising in insurance, personal finance, and pets. He’s worked for Confused.com and Admiral Insurance, and currently writes and edits for an online magazine. His strangest pet was a hissing cockroach. Now, he’s a proud cat dad to Penelope, affectionately known as Nelly.
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