How long do Cornish Rex cats live?

An indoor Cornish Rex typically lives about 11–15 years. Weight control, regular check-ups and indoor living all make a difference.

How much does an adult Cornish Rex weigh?

A fully grown Cornish Rex usually weighs 2.5–4.5 kg. Males tend to be larger than females, and a body shape where the ribs can be felt lightly matters more than the number.

Rare breeds

Cornish Rex: personality, life span and weight

The Cornish Rex has a very short wavy coat and a body as slim as a greyhound's. It has only an undercoat and no top coat, so it feels like velvet.

Agile
Playful
Loves people

Cornish Rex at a glance

Adult weight: 2.5–4.5 kg
Life span: 11–15 years
Shedding: low
Activity: active
Origin: Cornwall, England (1950)
Coat: Only a very short, soft undercoat that lies in waves

Cornish Rex personality

It loves running and jumping high, and stays playful as it ages. Playing with people is its favourite thing, and it is good at fetch.

Coat care and daily care

The coat is thin, so stroke it with your hand and do not brush hard. It feels the cold, so provide a warm spot, and an occasional bath may be needed when skin oil builds up.

Health problems Cornish Rex keepers should know

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)Regular heart checks are recommended.
Patellar luxationHave it checked if the cat holds up a hind leg when walking or avoids jumping.

These are problems reported relatively often in the breed. It does not mean every cat will have them. If a symptom worries you, see a vet.

Real Cornish Rex photos from cat keepers

Photo tip Take a profile that shows the arched back and narrow waist. The waves in the coat only show from close up.

There are no public records yet. Your cat could be the first.

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Cornish Rex questions and answers

How long do Cornish Rex cats live?: An indoor Cornish Rex typically lives about 11–15 years. Weight control, regular check-ups and indoor living all make a difference.
How much does an adult Cornish Rex weigh?: A fully grown Cornish Rex usually weighs 2.5–4.5 kg. Males tend to be larger than females, and a body shape where the ribs can be felt lightly matters more than the number.
Do Cornish Rex cats shed a lot?: Shedding is low. Only a very short, soft undercoat that lies in waves. The coat is thin, so stroke it with your hand and do not brush hard. It feels the cold, so provide a warm spot, and an occasional bath may be needed when skin oil builds up.
What is the Cornish Rex personality like?: It loves running and jumping high, and stays playful as it ages. Playing with people is its favourite thing, and it is good at fetch.

Cat age calculatorConvert your Cornish Rex's age to human years.Cat food calculatorSee a daily feeding reference for the 2.5–4.5 kg weight range.