The Cornish Rex is a visually striking breed of cat distinguished by its distinct look and lively disposition. The coat of the Cornish Rex, in contrast to most cats, is velvety smooth and curly. They stand out from other breeds thanks to their unique appearance, but their charm is much more than just physical attributes.
These cats are frequently characterized as being extremely curious and vivacious. They quickly build close relationships with their human companions and enjoy being the center of attention. The Cornish Rex is always game for an adventure, whether it involves climbing new heights or chasing after toys.
Though they may have a delicate appearance, Cornish Rex cats are strong and enjoy playing. They are the ideal choice for families or anyone looking for a lively, loving pet because of their social nature.
Characteristic | Description |
Origin | England, 1950s |
Coat | Short, curly, and soft |
Personality | Playful, affectionate, and social |
Size | Small to medium |
Exercise Needs | Moderate, loves to play |
Good with Kids | Yes, very friendly |
Shedding | Low |
Health | Generally healthy, but prone to some genetic issues |
- History of the origin of the Cornish Rex breed
- Description of the Kornish-River breed
- External data
- Character
- Features of choosing a Cornish Rex kitten
- Cornish Rex Care
- Curly hair care
- Caring for claws
- Ear and eye care
- Toilet
- Nutrition
- Toys
- Sterilization and castration
- Breeding
- Propensity to diseases
- Table: pros and cons of the Cornish Rex breed
- Owners" reviews
- Video on the topic
- CORNISH REX 1 YEAR / cat habits / jokes with a cat
- Cornish Rex. Planet of cats | Living Planet
- CORNISH REX: Curly breed of cats | Interesting facts about cat breeds
History of the origin of the Cornish Rex breed
This breed’s official founding date is regarded as July 21, 1950. On a farm in Cornwall County, UK, a plain tortoiseshell cat gave birth to five kittens on this day, one of whom had unusually wavy hair. Nina Ennismoor, the cat’s owner and a professional breeder of curly Astrix rabbits, recognized the special kitten right away. Geneticists were consulted when the woman decided to start a new breed of cats.
The first Cornish Rex cat, Kallibunker
Callibunker, the baby’s name, turned him into the progenitor of all wavy cats. A unique gene responsible for this characteristic is present, which explains the coat’s curly structure. However, the gene is recessive, meaning that both parents must carry it for their children to appear curly. Consequently, breeding the cat with other cats did not produce any interesting offspring; all of the kittens that were born were plain. It was essential to cross-breed Kallibunker with his mother through inbreeding. Two curly babies were born this time around as a result of the successful experiment.
The original red and white Cornish Rex cat looked just like this.
Siamese, Burmese, and British shorthaired cats were employed in subsequent breeding efforts. Consolidating the waviness trait and expanding the gene pool were the objectives of all the activities. Cornish Rex was the new breed’s name. The geographical name of the place of origin (Cornwall) is indicated in the first section. "Royal" is what the second part literally means. Another version claims that the first cat’s owner gave this prefix because it resembled her curly rabbits.
Large ears are a defining characteristic of the American variety of Cornish Rex.
Cornish were standardized in Europe in 1967, and in 1983, they were granted the necessary qualification and global recognition by leading phenological organizations. Since this breed is now regarded as finally formed and independent, it is forbidden to cross it with other breeds.
Since the turn of the century, unusually curly-furred kittens have been discovered throughout Europe; however, because superstitious people believed them to be sick and contagious, all the animals were brutally destroyed.
Description of the Kornish-River breed
Cornish-RASSes resemble real English nobility. They exude elegance, grace, and elegance. Like the greyhounds, they belong to the same type. These cats have equally vibrant and aristocratic looks.
Cornwoman cats have an aristocratic, English appearance.
External data
The roots have a characteristic arc on their back and a long, muscular, dry, and fried body. The overall physique is similar to Egyptian cats, with the thigh, chest, and shoulder belt all being proportionate.
This breed comes in three varieties: English, European, and American. Every one of them has some subtleties on the outside.
The primary attributes of the World Cat of Cats, English breed standard WCF. World Cat Federal explains in this way:
- The head is small in a wedge -shaped shape, about 30 % more width in length;
- The cheekbones are well -expressed, tall;
- developed strong chin forms an almost vertical line with the tip of the nose;
- the nose is long, thin, straight, slightly widening towards the nostrils;
- the eyes are large or medium, almond-shaped, slightly slanted (the upper corners are slightly higher), the color is from yellow to green depending on the color of the coat (individuals colored according to the Siamese type have blue eyes);
- the ears are large (sometimes huge), wide at the base, the tips are slightly rounded, set high and wide apart from each other;
- the whiskers (vibrissae) and eyelashes are long, curled (indentations on the skull are noticeable in the area of the whiskers);
- the tail is long, whip-like, extremely flexible;
- the limbs are strong and long, the back ones are significantly longer and more powerful than the front ones (which allows them to jump perfectly);
- the height at the withers is 23–27 cm;
- male weight – 4-5 kg, female – 3-3.5 kg.
The hind legs of Cornish Rexes are stronger than the front ones, and their bodies are dry and muscular.
The guard hair is nonexistent and the coat is short, thick, and wavy. To the touch, the fur is incredibly silky and soft. Curls can range in size from tiny and extremely tight (like a washboard) to large and slightly open waves. Only 7-8 months pass before the astrakhan fur forms in its entirety.
Additionally, the muzzle is covered in tiny, very short hair.
The Cornish Rex has a short, soft, and delicate coat, and its hair is uniformly wavy throughout its body.
Cats that are Cornish Rex of any color are welcome. Some people have two colors that are solid, variegated, or even tricolored.
Tortoiseshell-colored cornishes are frequently sterile, meaning they are unable to procreate.
Cornish Rexes may even possess an uncommon tortoiseshell hue.
The most popular hues are:
- white;
- black (the color is very dense and saturated, mixing shades or smoky is not allowed);
- blue (even all over the body);
- red (brick brown);
- calico (various motley spots are located on the main white background).
The standard permits a great range of hues, and tricolor cats have a striking appearance.
Animal exhibitors must adhere to very strict guidelines. Bald spots and body bald patches are not permitted, nor is inadequate wool density. Any guard hair, no matter how little, is regarded as a flaw. Rejected are those with an abnormally kinked tail and an odd or even an even number of fingers. Pets must adhere to special rules regarding miniature size, and their weight cannot be above average. A large, heavy body with a wide bone structure is a significant disadvantage. The color of the iris in the eyes should be uniform.
The color of the eyes can vary. What matters most is that their colors are uniform.
Based on my own experience. We saw Cornish Rexes for the first time at a cat show. Back then, the kids were still quite young. These animals were also unfamiliar to them. It’s incredible that the owners let their favorites get ironed. It’s true that you had to clean your hands beforehand with a moist bactericidal wipe. The wool is so unique that it almost seems like the softest silk rather than wool at all. The young kitties are particularly endearing. They are simultaneously graceful and awkward.
Character
Because of their exceptional intelligence and subtle mental organization, Cornish Rexes can rightfully be regarded as highly intelligent animals. The common facts don’t need to be explained to them because an aristocrat, or creature of blue blood, will never climb on the dining table, use the restroom anywhere, or hang from the curtains. Even after maturing into adulthood and reaching sexual maturity, cats never demarcate their territory. It is not at all in their nature to be spiteful or mischievous.
There are certain therapeutic benefits associated with Cornish cats. It is thought that their culture has a beneficial impact on the nervous system of humans and can treat depression.
Since the roots are incredibly emotional, inquisitive, and perceptive, they must be informed of everything that occurs in the house. If the door is closed in front of these thin and delicate natures, they might very well be offended. There’s no need to physically punish these animals, much less to scream at them. This breed of cats is known for its increased conversationalism; they never yell incoherently and always have something to say, regardless of the situation. Every person has a unique set of sounds that are appropriate for a particular circumstance.
Kornishi are talkative and always have something to say, but when they are quiet, you get the impression that they are understanding and know everything.
Although they have a deep bond with their owners, pets only designate one person to be the leader and follow behind them. Being well-trained, they can perform several basic tricks and teams, just like a dog. He hurls balls and other small objects, which are dragged with exaltation.
The Cornish greets his owner with a dog-like wag of his tail, full of joy.
Extremely lively, energetic, and playful is the temperament of Cornish Rexes. It is very rare to see a cat lying down calmly; instead, he is usually quite businesslike and preoccupied with his never-ending games. Your pet will select toys that aren’t quite right for him if you don’t buy a lot of different kinds for him. Almost all cats, even those who are quite elderly, retain their youthful energy and enthusiasm when playing with a ball. However, pets require company; if left alone, they become very bored. Consequently, if you won’t be able to provide your gregarious cat with adequate attention, you shouldn’t get one.
Cats of this breed are unusually friendly and completely devoid of aggression, they regard strangers who appear as new playmates. Manage to live in peace with all family members and other pets. They are distinguished by their affectionate and docile nature, they can mess around with small children endlessly and allow them to do whatever they want with them. When tired, they prefer to rest on the owner"s lap, then, after a short break, they will rush to exploits again. The animals are curious to the point of fearlessness, they are not afraid even of a dog"s barking. Thanks to their intelligence, they can penetrate into any forbidden, but terribly desired place. They love to walk on the street, but they should only be taken out on a leash.
Cornish people can play for ages.
A Cornish can become ill if they receive insufficient care and affection.
Based on my own experience. Cornish Rexes enjoy scaling to the top so they can take in the entire view. The cat of the neighbor enjoyed scaling the boxes that were positioned on the balcony. The fact that the boxes occasionally fell with her and made a lot of noise didn’t even make her feel ashamed.
A distinctive breed of cat, the Cornish Rex is renowned for its playful, loving disposition and soft, curly coat. Their fur feels velvety because it doesn’t have an outer layer like that of most cats. Cornish Rex cats are intelligent, gregarious, and make excellent companions because they enjoy interacting with people. They frequently seek out high spots and engage in playful antics. They are also very nimble and curious.
Features of choosing a Cornish Rex kitten
As soon as you consider purchasing a Cornish Rex, you must determine the type of kitten you require. This will have a direct impact on how much a small pet costs.
Cats are categorized by breeders in these ways:
- Show class. The most beautiful and expensive, with an excellent pedigree and from titled parents. Intended for exhibition activities and breeding.
- Breeding class. A little short of the show class, but have high breed characteristics. Used mainly for breeding in specialized nurseries.
- Pet class. Have some discrepancies with strict breed standards, so they are purchased exclusively as a pet.
- Without documents. The cheapest and extremely unreliable category, because there is a high risk of buying a kitten that simply looks like a Cornish.
Only reputable breeders or a reputable cattery that can offer a guarantee and all supporting documentation (sales contract, pedigree, etc.) should be used to purchase a purebred kitten. The truth is that small kittens don’t get fluffy until they are 7-8 months old, and it can be very challenging for a novice to tell a baby rex from a regular bald pet. A reputable breeder provides a kitten with all the required vaccinations and trained to use a litter box. Purchase infants who are at least three months old. Chipping is required for animals used in breeding operations.
The kitten needs to be lively and curious.
In the event that the future pet’s exterior meets no specific requirements, you should be mindful of the following:
- healthy appearance;
- shiny fur;
- no bald spots or bald patches;
- no discharge from the eyes and dark plaque in the ears, as well as any unpleasant odor;
- the presence of a card indicating all vaccinations given.
The infant should be playful, loving, and never run screaming into the far corner.
Getting to know the mother cat and evaluating the confinement circumstances are essential.
Cornish Rex Care
Cornish Rexes don’t need a lot of special attention. There are a few quirks with the upkeep of these animals, though.
Curly hair care
It doesn’t take long or be difficult at all to take care of Karakul hair. Pets with short hair need frequent bathing—at least twice or three times a month—using shampoo designed specifically for hairless cats because short hair cannot effectively absorb skin secretions and sweat. Without adequate care, Cornish Rexes are susceptible to a variety of skin conditions brought on by bad hygiene. Since these cats are prone to colds and cannot withstand drafts, it is imperative that the animal be thoroughly dried with a towel after washing.
Curly cats don’t shed much, but when they do, dead hair needs to be brushed out using a rubber brush. For the remainder of the time, using moist hands or a suede cloth to wipe the pet’s skin will suffice.
Bald spots and excessive hair loss can happen occasionally. This could result from an allergic reaction to food or shampoo.
Since not all pets enjoy swimming, it’s important to start acclimating them to water procedures at a young age.
Caring for claws
Because the claws of this breed cannot fully retract into the pads, they must be clipped once a week using specialized scissors, or a claw cutter. It is imperative that your pet have a few claws so that he can independently remove the fading fans with them.
Regular trimming of the claws with specialized scissors is necessary for Cornish Rex pets.
Ear and eye care
The ears of the Cornish Rex need special attention. These cats’ highly ambulatory nature makes them fond of climbing in dusty, awkward locations, such as beneath couches, cabinets, and mezzanines, which leads to rapid ear dirt accumulation. They are cleaned with a cotton pad soaked in warm water, petroleum jelly, or an ear cleaning solution specifically designed for animals (available at veterinary pharmacies) at least once a week. If cotton swabs are needed, use them.
Cornish Rex ears need to be handled with extra caution.
Take caution when manipulating the ears; avoid getting too close to the ear.
It is advised to use a cotton swab soaked in warm, boiling water or a special product to wipe the cat’s eyes every morning. Teaching your pet to brush its teeth at least once every seven to ten days is very beneficial. It is possible to purchase toothpaste designed specifically for animals that doesn’t require washing off.
Toilet
Cornish people are accustomed to a variety of trays with ease. However, seasoned cat breeders advise purchasing closed-type pots for them, as they provide a more serene environment. The restroom is situated in a peaceful, private area where no one will bother the animal. Little ones and other pets shouldn’t be present. There’s no need to place food or water bowls and resting beds close by.
Proficient cat breeders advise getting closed-type trays for Cornish cats.
Any filler will work; it just comes down to taste. For small kittens, it is best to pour paper or wood pellets; in the unlikely event that the baby swallows them, there will be no harm done.
It is imperative that the tray be kept clean. If not, the tidy Cornish Rex will mimic its owner and express displeasure with its overall appearance.
Nutrition
Being highly active, cornish cats require a diet that is both complete and well-balanced. Because they expend a lot of energy, they eat a fair amount of food. Adults receive two meals a day, while infants receive five. Given the tendency for overeating and obesity in this breed, portions should be carefully dosed. Meal times must be properly followed, and any food that is left behind must be taken out right away. The ceramic bowl should always be filled with clean, fresh water.
Selecting ready-made feeds tailored specifically for hairless cats is preferable.
Naturally occurring food or premium cat food that has been prepared especially for hairless cats (such as Royal Canin Indoor, Sensible, Eukanuba Top Condition, Eagle Pack Adult Cat, Hills Feline Adult, etc.) can be fed to Cornish cats. Wet canned food makes up the remainder of the menu; dry granules should not account for more than one-sixth of the daily food volume. The communal table is not suitable for feeding these animals.
The natural diet includes the following goods:
- boiled eggs (chicken and quail) or cheese yolk mixed with cottage cheese;
- boiled liver, lungs and other offal;
- meat (veal, rabbit, chicken, beef, turkey);
- white fish (a little, since it can provoke the development of urolithiasis);
- boiled and raw vegetables (pumpkin, zucchini, cauliflower, etc.). p.), give with meat (1:2), alternating with porridge;
- porridge (rice, buckwheat, rolled oats, etc.) mix with minced meat in a proportion of 1: 2;
- sprouted grains (oats, wheat);
- fermented milk products (kefir, cottage cheese).
Products derived from meat should account for at least 70% of the diet.
Vitamin and mineral supplements must be taken care of when feeding natural products.
Toys
The Cornish Rex needs a wide variety of toys in his collection. Ideally, you should provide your pet a well-designed, multipurpose play area with beds, tunnels, hammocks, ladders, and scratching posts. The cat will then always have something to do on its own and won’t get bored when the owners are gone.
There should be a ton of toys for the Cornish Rex.
Sterilization and castration
Castration or sterilization are advised for animals that are not meant for breeding. Some breeders, particularly those in foreign countries, castrate their kittens before they are even born. However, veterinarians strongly advise against having the surgery done before six months.
Breeding
In females, the first heat can appear as early as nine months. However, Cornish Rex cat mating does not begin before a year of age because the animal’s body is not yet fully developed and ready for procreation at this point. An early mating event frequently results in weak and non-viable offspring. Give all recommended immunizations four to five months in advance.
Expert breeders advise against mating females younger than a year old.
After being taken to the male’s domain, the female is left there for a few days. In order to prevent the cat from scratching her partner, it is preferable to trim her claws. Everything went smoothly if, after a month, the heat hasn’t started. A pregnancy lasts between 62 and 66 days. Usually, childbirth is simple and without any complications. At around six months of age, little Cornish Rex cats lose their tiny, light curls and grow real, denser, wavy hair.
Based on my own experience. The office neighbor who lived next door had a Cornish Rex cat. She didn’t have any paperwork. bought via an advertisement from a private seller. Approximately once a year, she was brought to a purebred cat for mating. Though the color of the kittens in the litter varied, the majority of them were usually not wavy.
Propensity to diseases
Excellent immunity and good health set Cornish cats apart. When given the right attention and upkeep, they hardly ever become sick.
Because of certain physiological traits, animals may be more vulnerable to certain health issues:
- colds and even inflammation of the urinary tract (cystitis) due to hypothermia (especially relevant for short-haired cats);
- skin diseases;
- gastrointestinal diseases due to insatiable appetite and overeating;
- thyroid dysfunction (hypothyroidism), which is expressed in weakness, loss of appetite, weakening of the coat;
- hair loss and bald spots caused by hypotrichosis (a genetic disorder that cannot be cured, but is not dangerous to health).
Rarely do Cornish Rexes become ill
Cats of this breed typically live 12–13 years. However, there are examples of Cornish Rexes living to be 18–20 years old.
In comparison to other cats, Cornish Rexes have a slightly higher body temperature: 38.5 °C for adult cats and 39.5 °C for small kittens.
Table: pros and cons of the Cornish Rex breed
- strongly attached to people (excellent companions);
- good and friendly character;
- high intelligence and intelligence;
- love human company and know how to behave decently;
- lack of aggression;
- do not require particularly careful care;
- easy to learn and train;
- cleanliness;
- minimal shedding;
- hypoallergenic;
- strong health and immunity.
- do not tolerate loneliness well;
- tendency to overeating and obesity, so it is necessary to constantly monitor the diet;
- specific and not very pleasant body odor (especially from paws), so they have to be washed often;
- excessive activity, bordering on obsession;
- susceptibility to colds, forcing animals to be kept warm all the time.
Owners" reviews
Hello to all participants of a very interesting discussion. I treat everyone with respect.And since the Cornish Rex is my favorite breed, I want to participate. As for health – 4 years ago we got our first Cornish Rex.Exclusively because of problems in terms of reproductive health of the Don Sphynx cat (and a family allergy to wool).There is something to compare with.Since then, we only needed a veterinarian for vaccinations and obtaining veterinary certificates. I am familiar with many Rex breeders (I currently have three Rexes) – and I have never heard of problems with bones.Moreover, I read different literature – the same thing. Yesterday I was at the veterinary clinic, they brought a livrette dog, almost like my cat, so that"s where the problems with the bones are – she has fractures in her front paws (they inserted rods).I asked the owner"s dog fell down the stairs.Can you imagine this with a rex? Rex cannot be limited in jumping ability.And at the same time they do not break their legs. When selling kittens, I stipulate (in my opinion) the only weak point of Rexes – that they do not like drafts (much more sensitive than sphinxes). I know a case when after the exhibition almost all the kittens that were sold there got sick (someone brought a sick animal).Some even died.I do not skimp on vaccinations – mine did not even sneeze. I do not even talk about reproduction.I know only one case of cesarean.And what about other breeds? I know 2, where it is very common: sphinxes and Persians.And as for further refinement of the breed – it seems that no one is particularly striving, to achieve at least the American level.What we are striving for.
Lyulya
Pro-Cats.ru/forum/19-104-1
Allergies are very individual. My dad is allergic to dust, to wool, dog"s, for example. Very painful attacks – swelling of the nasal mucosa, tears, sneezing – in general, all the "delights" of this misfortune. However, my uncastrated Cornish cat has been living with them for a year now. My dad only has allergies from time to time, mostly when he spends a lot of time with the cat. My friend is allergic to almost everything in this life, animals are hell for her, it is hard for her to be at her parents" house (they have a regular cat), and at her mother-in-law"s (a Persian and a Pekingese) too. But when she was at my parents" house and cuddled the cat, only minor symptoms arose, which went away after Tavegil. So, judge for yourself. The reason I emphasized that the cat is uncastrated is that I have read information more than once that castrated animals secrete less protein, which is actually an allergen. Since the cat spreads it all over its fur when licking itself, it does not always matter how long the fur is, even if there is none at all. Washing can help, but you shouldn"t wash your cat too often, of course.
JaneRex
The thread "Allergiya na Kornish Reksa-t2845–20.html" can be found here.
This cat reads minds, so it appears like she understands what I’m talking about, which makes it scary at times. My pet is already twelve years old, and the older she gets, the more magical and human aspects she still possesses. This cat has eyes that look directly into the soul, and when she begins to "talk"—you can’t call it anything other—it’sobviouswhat she is requesting or accomplishing. The Http://otzyv.expert/ponimaet-ona-menya-s-poluvzglyada-1690646 Fournierablaste
I really wanted to get a sphinx, but my husband was against it, so we decided to buy a Devon Rex)) we looked at the cost of kittens and somehow changed our minds))) and now a Cornish kitten named Ovik has settled in our house)) of the advantages I can note a bright exotic appearance, incredible eyes… I immediately fell in love! By nature, very active, affectionate, gentle. Always lies on knees, rattling like a tractor.runs after my husband and me everywhere! We go to the toilet – he runs there, sits next to us or starts to climb inside, he loves the sound of flushing water) we cook – he climbs under the knife, into the sink, oven, on the stove! He constantly sits under the sink and listens to the water flowing through the pipes)) we watch TV – he constantly catches something on the screen with his paws) when we are not there – he sits on the radiator for hours and sleeps) he is very jealous! If there is another animal in the house – he hisses, climbs to fight. The same thing if a baby is brought to visit. He watches and hisses from around the corner. He has been with us for 3 months now, there are problems with the litter box… He does not use the litter box on principle, we have tried all the methods (((( he shits on the bed, in his shoes and in the closet with things! He is not picky about food, he eats what is given and never asks or begs. He does not like to wash… Wild screams throughout the house. Super talkative. I come home – the dock at least walks and grumbles.when no one pays attention, he walks and screams for hours until you pick him up))) In general, I love this cat very much, but the breed is not for everyone… my husband loves him because he has already gotten used to him, but he cannot come to terms with his character, Ovik pisses him off(((for me he is like a child, I have to put up with his mischief ((((I can"t say for sure about his intelligence.. The eyes seem to be understanding, but the words "no" and "ugh" are understood only occasionally… So it seems he is not stupid, but I can"t call him smart either… So think carefully before getting a Cornish Rex! For me, this is the ideal breed))
Alsusha200
Nashemnenie.com/zhivotnye/18204-kornish-reks.html
We have a Cornish Rex of European blood. True, we got her as an adult cat (1 year old). When we first met, she bit my husband"s finger through a winter glove, lived with us for a month, showing all her wild and unbridled living nature. We found a common language with her and now this is the sweetest and most affectionate animal in the world with us, she protects us from strangers, lives with dogs (Mittel and Riesens). she is the owner – she chases them. She always goes with us to the countryside and hunts there, we live in tents. He really loves going out into nature – he goes hunting at night, sometimes coming to warm up in my sleeping bag – during the day he lives in a tent or car and sleeps off. A very devoted and loving creature. They shed, simply because their fur is different from the fur of the main breeds of cats, it is almost unnoticeable on clothes and furniture and is also very easy to clean. It is true that we are very gluttonous in food, we have to limit it. It is true that she is now sterilized, after sterilization she became even more gentle and affectionate, although she has not lost her playfulness. Now she allows other people to pet her, she can even come and climb on her lap.
Vzhik
This link takes you to a forum on academic medicine.
A distinctive and alluring cat breed, the Cornish Rex is renowned for its distinct look and lively disposition. They are a focal point in any house thanks to their sleek, athletic build and soft, wavy coat.
These cats are not just beautiful; they are also highly social and thrive on interaction with their owners. They love to play and are known for their energy, making them great companions for active households.
The Cornish Rex might be the ideal cat for you if you’re searching for a creature that combines intelligence, beauty, and affection. Their lively and charming nature will add fun and happiness to any home.