Lean, elegant, and possessed of seemingly endless energy, the Cornish Rex has only a single under-layer of fine, wavy down. They feel like warm velvet and move like greyhounds.
- Origin
- Cornwall, England
- Category
- shorthair
- Lifespan
- 11–15 yrs
- Size
- Small-Medium
- Weight
- 2.7–4.5 kg
- Coat
- Extremely short, fine down coat with unique rippled waves (only down layer)
- Colours
- All colours and patterns
😺 Temperament
🏡 Best suited to
📊 Personality ratings
📜 History & origin
The Cornish Rex originated from a single curly-coated kitten named Kallibunker, born in a litter of farm cats in Cornwall in 1950. Breeder Nina Ennismore worked with geneticist A.C. Jude to develop the breed. Early breeding experiments with Devon Rex cats revealed they carried different mutations. The Cornish Rex was recognised by the GCCF in 1967.
🧼 Care & grooming
Minimal grooming — their ultra-short coat can actually be damaged by too much brushing. Gentle stroking or a damp cloth is sufficient. They feel warm to the touch and lose body heat rapidly; they need warm indoor environments and dislike the cold. Their boundless energy demands interactive play at least twice daily.
🩺 Health notes
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is the main concern. Congenital Hypotrichosis (excessive thinning of the coat) can occur. Their greyhound-like build means they are prone to hypoglycaemia if meals are delayed. Generally a long-lived, healthy breed.
