A curly-coated, fine-boned cat standing high on its legs. Distinctive arched back and tuck-up resembling a greyhound. Hard, muscular body that is warm to the touch. The coat quality, texture, waviness, and distinctive body type are of prime importance.
Origins of the Cornish Rex Cat. The Cornish Rex appeared in the county of Cornwall, England. Originally called the "EnglishR ex", until a second form of rex Cat was discovered in nearby Devon. Sometimes referred to in the popular press as the "Poodle Cat" or "Coodle". This is not to be confused with the new type of Rex Cat from Germany also known as the Poodle Cat.
This extraordinary creature—though it may look like it came from Venus or Mars—arose in 1950 when a perfectly ordinary cat named Serena had an ordinary litter, except for one fuzzy little "ugly duckling." The wavy coat was confirmed as being a true recessive mutation. The name was easy: Cornish for the kitten's birthplace, and Rex for it's wavy fur resemblance to that of Astrex rabbit.
There are two types of Cornish Rex: the English Cornish Rex, bred from Burmese and British, is a heavy, stocky cat, with a triangular skull and a relatively straight profile; its ears are set widely apart , and its eyes are large. The American cornish rex is lighter, more fragile, with an oval head. enormous ears , and the lean look of a long-distance runner.
The Cornish Rex, a well-coordinated, athletic cat, is a born acrobat, with a lively intelligence. It is happy and affectionate, has a piercing voice, and eats like a horse despite its delicate appearance. It is no more demanding than any other cat. The breed has several traits that make it unique:
- Slightly curly hair all over its body in regular waves like a crimped coiffure; even the whiskers and eyelashes are wavy;
- A long, egg-shaped skull with no flat panes; all long curves;
- A lively and mobile expression, with large, round eyes that always look surprised or questioning;
- At birth the Cornish Rex looks like a baby bat, with its enormous ears, or like a spider, because of its long, spindly legs; it is born all curly, like an astrakhan lamb.
A reputable cattery is the best source for acquiring a Cornish Rex cat. These are serious individuals who carefully select cats for their breeding programs in order to strengthen the chances of producing the most desirable characteristics in breeding while diminishing recognized faults as well. Aside form their preoccupation with breeding and showing Cornish Rex kittens and cats, cattery breeders are very concerned about the health of the kittens. All reputable breeders give a health guarantee. A reputable cattery breeders will recognize the importance of early socialization and sell only kittens and cats whose temperament make them suitable as pets.