Cornish Rex

• ExerciseVery high

  A little athlete: expect zoomies, climbing and lots of active play.

• GroomingWash & go

  Their own tongue does most of the work — an occasional brush helps.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Perfectly happy indoors — add vertical space to climb.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment11–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy · Patellar luxation · Skin conditions

The Cornish Rex is a slender, greyhound-built acrobat wrapped in a soft, marcel-waved coat, and it is every bit as energetic as it looks. Playful, athletic and endlessly curious, it runs, leaps and plays fetch well into adulthood and stays devoted to its people, following them around and warming laps at every opportunity — this is not a cat for someone wanting a placid ornament. Because the coat is only the soft, curly undercoat with no protective guard hairs, the Cornish Rex feels warm to the touch, chills easily and must live indoors with cozy warm spots. Grooming is gentle and minimal — a light stroke or occasional soft wipe, since the delicate coat is easily damaged; the ears, which build up wax, need more regular cleaning than the coat. Responsible breeders screen for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and patellar luxation, and the breed can have oily skin and low body fat that makes anesthesia a point to discuss with your vet. Keep it warm and lean, clean the ears, maintain dental care, and this affectionate live-wire will be a joy.

• How much play does a Cornish Rex need?

  Very high. A little athlete: expect zoomies, climbing and lots of active play.

• How much grooming does a Cornish Rex need?

  Wash & go. Their own tongue does most of the work — an occasional brush helps.

• Is a Cornish Rex suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Perfectly happy indoors — add vertical space to climb.

• Is a Cornish Rex a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Cornish Rex live?

  11–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Cornish Rex?

  Keep an eye out for Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Patellar luxation, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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