How to Identify a Cornish Rex Cat

The Cornish Rex cat and the Devon Rex cats are distinct and separate breeds although they have many similar characteristics. Mated together however, they can't reproduce the characteristics of either of the two breeds. These cats both originated in England around 1950 and 1960, respectively. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Feel the fur of the cat and examine it closely. The Cornish Rex cats have an undercoat that is curly and wavy but lacks the presence of a top coat or guard hairs. Their fur feels very fine, silky and close fitting.

2. Examine the body of the cat. The Cornish Rex has a body similar to a Siamese with long legs and a medium length body. The cat is light and lean but muscular. They also have an arched back.

3. Look at the head of the cat. The Cornish Rex has a medium length triangular head. They have a long straight nose and large ears, which add to the triangular appearance of the head.

4. Look into the cat's eyes. Their eyes are oval shaped and very intense and clear. Their eye color tends to match the coat.

5. Feel the tail. It tends to be long and slender at the tip with curly hair covering it.

Tips & Warnings

• The Cornish Rex is a cat that has many of the traits of other breeds but has an independent streak and is highly intelligent. Otherwise, it is responsive, tranquil, open, affectionate, and agile enough to make jumps well.

Resources

• Cat Fanciers' Federation Homepage
• Cat Fanciers' Association Homepage