Cornish Rex
Imagine the racy elegance of a greyhound paired with playful personality of a clown – then dress it up in curls! The Cornish Rex is distinguished from all other breeds by its extremely soft, wavy coat and racy type.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
| Weight | 6–10 lb [1] |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 11–15+ years [1] |
| Coat | Shorthair [2] |
| Look | The Cornish Rex is distinguished from all other breeds by its extremely soft, wavy coat and racy type. [2] |
| Personality | Imagine the racy elegance of a greyhound paired with playful personality of a clown – then dress it up in curls! [2] |
| Recognized by | CFA (Cat Fanciers' Association) [2] |
Activity and exercise
Imagine the racy elegance of a greyhound paired with playful personality of a clown – then dress it up in curls! You’ll have captured the essence of the Cornish Rex, one of the most unusual and charming felines to ever enchant cat lovers. [2]
Grooming
Cornish Rex cats also can be a great fit for those who enjoy spending quality time with their furry friend through regular grooming sessions. [2]
Health issues to budget for
PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide lists these conditions to know about: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Routine vet visit, any cat (owner bills) | $190–$525 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a cat, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,149 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, cat (US 2025) | $435/year | [5] |
| Cat heart disease treatment (owner bills) | $525–$1,250 | [6] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for cats in general or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- Imagine the racy elegance of a greyhound paired with playful personality of a clown – then dress it up in curls! [2]
- The breed’s distinctive coat is a mutation that began in Cornwall, England in 1950. [2]
- Today’s “Corneys” are not only extremely intelligent, but adaptable, adventurous and love to travel. [2]
Good fit for
- Our sources don't publish fit ratings for this breed. Meet the breed, talk to breeders or rescues, and read the profile above.
Common questions
How long do Cornish Rex cats live?
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide gives a lifespan of 11–15 years.
How big does a Cornish Rex get?
PetMD lists a weight of 6–10 lb.
More cat breeds
Sources (6) — tap to show
- PetMD – Cornish Rex cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- CFA – Cornish Rex breed profile
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- VetReceipt – Cat Heart Disease Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)