Cornish Rex: Cat With Curly Fur and Gigantic Ears

If you suffer from cat allergies but love feline friends, a Cornish Rex may be the perfect fit for you. Pavel105 / Shutterstock

With a coat that ripples like velvet and a personality that never seems to age, the Cornish Rex cat is one of the most captivating cat breeds out there.

From their curly coat to their kitten-like energy, Cornish Rex cats are not just unique in appearance but also in personality.

A Breed Born of Mutation

The Cornish Rex breed began in Cornwall, England, in 1950, when the first Cornish Rex kitten was born due to a natural mutation. This resulted in a curly coated cat with a sleek appearance and a bouncy personality.

What Do Cornish Rex Cats Look Like?

Unlike most cats, the Cornish Rex cat breed has no guard hairs — only a soft, downy middle layer of fur that feels like rabbit fur. Here's a little more about the Cornish Rex's physical appearance.

Coat: Short coat with wavy coat texture
Body: Medium-sized cat with a narrow waist, long hind legs and egg-shaped head
Ears: Large ears that dominate their head shape
Eyes: Expressive, often blue eyes in pointed and paler coat varieties

Cornish Rex Cats: Cuddly by Nature

cat and dog — Many Cornish Rex cats will get along with other family pets. They're more dog-friendly than a number of other breeds. Rita_Kochmarjova / Shutterstock

Known for their kitten-like energy well into their adult years, Cornish Rex behavior is marked by playfulness, curiosity and a love for socializing. These cats enjoy curling up with humans or other pets.

They do great with other cats, other pets and children. Due to their sensitivity to cold weather, they are best kept as an indoor cat. Their lack of fur layers makes them susceptible to temperature changes and skin exposure.

Grooming and Care

Despite their exotic appearance, grooming Cornish Rex cats is surprisingly simple:

They experience minimal shedding thanks to the absence of guard hairs.
Regular bathing may be needed to manage oil buildup from sebaceous glands.
Monitor for skin issues such as oil buildup or irritation, especially in warmer climates or humid conditions.
Maintain good dental hygiene and observe for pale gums, a potential sign of health issues.

These cats also benefit from a high-quality cat food diet and fresh water. Use a shallow food bowl to accommodate their narrow faces.

Health and Genetic Concerns

As purebred cats, Cornish Rexes can be prone to genetic disorders. Affected cats might show signs of:

Polycystic kidney disease
Progressive retinal atrophy, leading to vision loss
Cardiomyopathy, which affects the ability to pump blood effectively

Routine vet checks and genetic tests are crucial for early detection. Inherited disorder risks can be minimized by sourcing from reputable breeders.

Life With a Cornish Rex

Living with this playful cat breed is like living with a permanent toddler: energetic, mischievous and loving. Cornish Rex costs can range from moderate to high, depending on lineage — but their companionship is priceless.

Best kept as indoor-only pets
Excellent with other cat breeds like the Devon Rex or Selkirk Rex
Require enrichment toys and space for climbing
Ideal for households seeking affectionate and energetic pets

If you’re looking for a breed that stays playful through all stages of a cat's lifespan, the Cornish Rex might just be your dream cat. With their unique look and lively personality, they bring endless joy to any home.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.