The Cornish Rex is a lively and friendly breed of cats that remains playful into old age. Therefore, it is usually suitable for families with children. Since their fur is very fine and consists entirely of an undercoat, it should mainly be kept indoors. As a rule, however, there is nothing wrong with taking a short detour to a secured balcony. The Cornish Rex does not like to stay alone, so that – especially when working – you should urgently think about keeping a second cat.
The hallmark of the Cornish Rex is their special fur, which is curled up, consists entirely of an undercoat, and is somewhat reminiscent of a mole.
The gene mutation that causes the breed-typical hair changes is inherited recessively (i.e. not dominant) and is identical to the fur mutation of the German Rex.
The first kitten with the typical Cornish Rex coat was found on a farm in Cornwall and is said to have been mated back to its mother. To expand the gene pool, Siamese were also crossed into the breed in the first years of breeding. This is said to have resulted in the Cornish Rex’s particularly large ears and extraordinary whip tail.
Breed-specific traits
The Cornish Rex is considered an intelligent, friendly, and cuddly breed of cats. In addition, she behaves very people-related and affectionately.
Many members of the breed remain playful their whole life and are reminiscent of kittens with their kind. For example, some cat owners report that their Cornish Rex can fetch and like to race with other pets.
Pedigree cats usually have their curiosity firmly under control. She loves to try everything possible and enjoys exploring her entire environment. Because of her friendly and bright nature, she is an ideal pet for shy children.
Attitude and care
Since the fur of the Cornish Rex is extremely fine and consists exclusively of an undercoat, the pedigree cat is only suitable for keeping indoors. After all, it could become hypothermic in winter if it was outdoors and in summer it could get burned if it was exposed to too much sunlight. However, there is certainly nothing wrong with a short visit to the secure balcony.
Like many other cat breeds, the Cornish Rex is reluctant to be left alone. It is therefore advisable to buy a second cat, especially when working. In addition, the velvet paw should be offered a wide variety of employment opportunities, as it remains playful into old age. A large and sturdy scratching post with many scratching surfaces is also an absolute must.
The Cornish Rex is characterized by a very special characteristic. It has scent glands on its paws through which a slightly cheesy odor can emanate. Anyone who has a problem with cheese paws should better reconsider keeping the breed.
