Cornish Rex

Cornish Rex cats live 11 to 15 years. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy occurs in the breed. Blood type incompatibility between parents can cause fatal neonatal isoerythrolysis in kittens so blood typing of breeding cats matters. Hypotrichosis, sparse coat areas, can occur. Their almost bare coat means they lose body heat fast and need a warm indoor environment. Annual vet visits protect long term health.

Your Cornish Rex has a short, soft, wavy coat that needs very gentle brushing just once a week. The curly coat is fragile and breaks easily with rough handling. Bathe every few weeks since the lack of a thick coat means skin oils build up. Their large ears need monthly cleaning. Trim nails every two weeks and brush teeth regularly.

Cornish Rex cats are highly active and playful well into adulthood. They run, jump, and play with kitten energy for years. Provide wand toys, climbing structures, and interactive puzzle feeders. Without daily vigorous play they become restless. Two or three energetic play sessions daily keeps them balanced and content.

The Cornish Rex is one of the most trainable cat breeds. They learn tricks, play fetch, walk on leash, and respond to their name with treat based training. They are people oriented and stay engaged during short training sessions. Start young, keep sessions under ten minutes, and always end on a positive note.

Cornish Rex cats have a fast metabolism and need adequate calories to maintain their lean body. Feed a quality protein rich diet twice daily. They feel cold easily so adequate nutrition helps them regulate body temperature. Choose foods with real meat as the first ingredient. Always provide fresh water.

The Cornish Rex originated in Cornwall, England, in 1950 when a curly coated male kitten named Kallibunker appeared in a litter born to a tortoiseshell barn cat. His owner, Nina Ennismore, consulted a geneticist and began a deliberate breeding program. Geneticists confirmed the rex mutation was a new recessive gene distinct from other curly cat breeds. The breed arrived in the United States in 1957. The CFA recognized the Cornish Rex in 1964.