Cornish Rex
Great Britain
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 2.5–4.5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 11–15 yrs
- energetic
- playful
- affectionate
- extrovert
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex arose from a curly-coated kitten born on a farm in Cornwall in 1950, caused by a recessive gene. Breeders developed the line from that cat and his descendants. The coat lacks the outer guard hairs, leaving only soft, wavy down. The breed is slender and fine-boned, with an arched back, long legs, large ears and an egg-shaped head.
Temperament
Energetic, extrovert and very people-oriented. Cornish Rex cats love to play, often fetch and enjoy being in the middle of things. They tend to be warm and affectionate, seeking out laps and beds.
Play & activity
High activity. Climbing, running games and interactive toys are important. They are agile and enjoy high perches.
Grooming
The fine coat is delicate and should be handled gently. Brushing is rarely needed; a soft hand or occasional chamois rub is enough. Some skin oiliness is normal.
Care & wellbeing
With so little hair they feel the cold and can sunburn, so provide warm beds and limit strong sun exposure. Their high metabolism means they often eat more than expected for their size.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 3.5 kg adult- Water
- 140 ml–210 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 220 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Cornish Rex
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Cornish Rex arose from a curly-coated kitten born in Cornwall, England, whose short wavy coat lacked the outer guard hairs. Breeders developed the line into a slender, long-legged breed with large ears. It is lively, playful and loves warm spots.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Hair loss and skin problems
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Kneecap checks
- Heart scans for HCM
Not every Cornish Rex is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 11–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Cornish Rex right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
- Smaller homes and flats
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Cornish Rex get?
Adult Cornish Rexs typically weigh around 2.5–4.5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Cornish Rexs live?
Typically 11–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Cornish Rex?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Cornish Rex need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Cornish Rexs affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Cornish Rexs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Cornish Rexs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Cornish Rex live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Cornish Rexs have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (hcm), hair loss and skin problems. Not every Cornish Rex is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.