The Cornish Rex Cat

All Cornish Rex cats can be traced back to one kitten born in Cornwall, England in the 1950's. This kitten was a genetic mutation with extremely soft, down-like fur. He was selectively bred and some of his offspring were brought to the U.S. where they were crossed with Modern Siamese cats giving the Cornish Rex lean, exotic lines and a vocal and inquisitive nature. The voice is not as harsh as the Siamese, but is used softly and often. These cats tend to stay kittenish their whole lives and will learn to fetch, to come when called and play their own unique brand of "tag".  This is a long-lived and surprisingly hardy breed. They are extremely curious, enjoy travel and are not upset by lack of routine. They do however, resent being left alone for long periods so singles with demanding lifestyles take note.

 Cool Cat Facts...
Cornish Rex cats can all be traced back to one special kitten named Kallibunker who was born on a farm in Cornwall, England in the 1950's!                                                                       

Is A Cornish Rex Cat Right For You?

The Cornish Rex cat is recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), the world's largest cat organization. It is an increasingly popular pure-bred or "pedigreed" domestic cat breed. The Cornish Rex although small, is long-limbed and the back is beautifully arched. The coat comes in any color or pattern and is without gaurdhairs making it soft and fine. Ideally, the curl should be tight like a permanent wave, and even the whiskers and eyebrows are curled. Light grooming with a rubber mitt will keep the skin healthy. There is little, if any, shedding, and although there is no truly hypo-allergenic cat, some with allergies or discomfort around high-shedding cats may find the Cornish Rex triggers less severe reactions. There is also a belief that the Rex breeds have less of the glyco-protein in their saliva and glands that is the true trigger of allergic reactions. These are very slender, smallish-sized cats that have few breed-related health issues, however they must be protected from chills and wet weather. Another issue is a low tolerance for anesthetics. Any medical procedures should be approached with this in mind. Because it is very active and desires interaction the Cornish Rex is a superb family cat that does well with considerate children, forms strong bonds, and likes to be included in everything.

Cornish Rex Cat Breed Standards

Head Shape: The head should be distinctively  longer than wide with a "Roman nose" profile. The ears are large and alert, taller than wide and nearly pointed.  The eyes are oval and wide set, medium in shape and set well in the skull. The bridge of the nose often rises high between the eyes. Any eye color acceptable, but pointed cats require blue eyes. The muzzle is well formed with a very strong chin flowing into a long slender neck.
Body and Tail: The body is hard, tight-skinned, and muscular with lean and rounded proportions. The belly "tucks-up" after the gentle curved rib cage much like a greyhound, and the top line is gracefully arched. The hips are broad, with long, powerful, rounded haunches. The legs are very long and slender, with neat, small, oval shaped feet. The tail is long and slim with a slight curve.
Coat: The coat should be short and dense, fine and soft to the touch. Waves should be tight and even across the entire body. Waves are desirable but not required on the head, legs and tail.
Pattern: All recognized colors and patterns are accepted
Overall Appearance: This should be a small to medium size cat with a lean, hard, slender body, long-legged and with curved contours. The head shape is exotic, with large ears and a Roman nose. The coat is unique, tightly curled, soft and curious. This is an active, agile and expressive cat of immense grace with a sweet, friendly personality.

Inside Cat or Outside Cat?

Wondering if you should allow your cat to go outside unsupervised? Well there are definitely some pure breeds that should never be outside cats. Hairless breeds like the Sphynx are extremely vulnerable and should always be supervised outdoors. Docile breeds like the Burmese may not be able to defend themselves. All cats allowed outdoors are exposed to diseases and parasites that they would not otherwise encounter. Fred Flintstone put his saber-tooth out every night, but the cat jumped right back in the window - and he was a saber-tooth! Still, most of us feel a little envy when we see our domestic companion out on some high perch, sniffing the breeze of liberty, and there is no doubt that cats love their freedom. So what do YOU think ....Inside Cat or Outside Cat? Comment Here...

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