The Cornish Rex Cat
History
"Are those cats from outer space?"
No, Cornish Rex cats are not from outer space and in spite of their resemblance to ancient Egyptian statues, they are not from Egypt either.
As their name implies, these cats originated in Cornwall, England, where they first appeared in a litter of barn cats born in 1950. The first Cornish Rex's name was Kallibunker. It is said that he was the foundation for what we now know as the Cornish Rex.
No, Cornish Rex cats are not from outer space and in spite of their resemblance to ancient Egyptian statues, they are not from Egypt either.
As their name implies, these cats originated in Cornwall, England, where they first appeared in a litter of barn cats born in 1950. The first Cornish Rex's name was Kallibunker. It is said that he was the foundation for what we now know as the Cornish Rex.
Appearance
The Cornish Rex is a study of curves starting most noticeably with their coat which ideally falls in washboard waves. Their coat is very soft to touch, some say it's like touching soft velvet or even rabbit fur.
In addition to the coat, the Cornish Rex has a distinct medium wedge shaped head and foreign body type. Large ears are set high on the head with high cheekbones and a roman nose with a strong chin and crinkled eyebrows and whiskers.
The body has been compared to a whippet dog because of its arched back, barrel chest, small waist and very long fine legs.
In spite of their dainty appearance, these small to medium sized cats are extremely hard-bodied and muscular, using their well-developed hips and strong legs for fast starts and stops, quick turns and high jumps and are very agile.
In addition to the coat, the Cornish Rex has a distinct medium wedge shaped head and foreign body type. Large ears are set high on the head with high cheekbones and a roman nose with a strong chin and crinkled eyebrows and whiskers.
The body has been compared to a whippet dog because of its arched back, barrel chest, small waist and very long fine legs.
In spite of their dainty appearance, these small to medium sized cats are extremely hard-bodied and muscular, using their well-developed hips and strong legs for fast starts and stops, quick turns and high jumps and are very agile.
Personality
The Cornish Rex has been known to be a people-oriented cat. They also haven kitten-like antics, which last a lifetime and can be very inventive with their games like fetch, catch, and even "discus" with their hand-like paws to pick up and toss small objects.
In spite of their sophisticated elegant appearance, Cornish Rex are anything but cool, aloof or dignified.
They are also very talkative with very unusual sounds and make the perfect pet for the owner who wants an active, dog-like athletic cat to participate in family life.
No two are the same, each Cornish Rex has a personality all of their own.
In spite of their sophisticated elegant appearance, Cornish Rex are anything but cool, aloof or dignified.
They are also very talkative with very unusual sounds and make the perfect pet for the owner who wants an active, dog-like athletic cat to participate in family life.
No two are the same, each Cornish Rex has a personality all of their own.
Grooming & Care
As a shorthaired cat, the Cornish Rex needs minimal grooming. Dead hair can be removed with a quick brush or comb. They have been known to go through a moult, especially from kitten hood to adulthood.
Despite its delicate appearance, the Cornish Rex is a hardy and robust breed. They do not experience any unusual or significant health problems.
Despite its delicate appearance, the Cornish Rex is a hardy and robust breed. They do not experience any unusual or significant health problems.
By Noeleen Wilson, Tirawa Cornish Rex Cattery
