These cats originated from a kitten (Kallibunker) born in Cornwall, England, in 1950. They have since been bred to a relatively foreign, or oriental body type in a wide range of colours.

The distinctive coat lacks the outer, primary guard hairs, whereas the remaining, secondary guard hairs and the down hairs are wavy and reduced in length. They are named "rex" after a similar mutation found in rabbits. The coat should be fairly dense. they only shed hair (dawn) when the season changes. ( No hair all over the furniture ).

Cornish Rexes can be groomed by stroking them firmly from head to tail. This helps to emphasize the distinctive, wavy pattern of the coat. They can also benefit from a bran bath to remove grease from the coat.

Pointed Cornish Rexes are called Si-rex - they should be identical in type to other rexes.

Cornish Rexes usually prove to be very healthy and the females make good mothers.

The Cornish Rex is the "Greyhound "in the cat family. It stands quite tall and males are generally larger than females. The tail is very long and flexible.

These cats can show a tendency to obesity, which spoils their slender body shape and may be harmful for them. It is best, therefore, to avoid overfeeding them.

The Kittens are born with curly hair, but after a week or two the hair straightens. From two months on the kitten’s sparse coat thickens and becomes curly again.

Cornish Rex cats are very playful and affectionate animals. They are described as the cat that stays a kitten. They are very soft to the touch and they like to be cuddled.