Owning a Rex

Owning a Rex: A guide for prospective owners

So, you want to be owned by a Rex?

What can you expect from these charming little creatures?

Should I have a Cornish or a Devon?

Both breeds are exceptionally loving, playful and real 'people' cats, so do not think of buying one unless you are able to give it lots of love, care and attention.

If you need to be out of the house for any length of time, then consider buying a pair of kittens, as loneliness and boredom is most unacceptable to Rex cats, and could lead to problems in the long run.

What is the difference between the breeds? Well, having asked breeders of both, they have said that, in general, the Cornish Rex isn't quite as naughty as the Devon's, but there are differing opinions on this!

What all agree is that they are definitely not 'chocolate box' cats, that will sit prettily and be content to be decorative.

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!!

Still keen?

Good, read on.........................

What are you looking for in your kitten? In brief, the Cornish Rex has a straight profile, medium wedge, large ears set rather high on the head and a more 'elegant' head shape. Whilst, the Devon Rex has a short wide head with a well-defined nose break. Ears should be large and set low on the head. both breeds have short, soft wavy coats and a muscular and sleek body shape.

(The full Standard of Points for both Devon and Cornish Rex is available on our site.)

It will depend on whether you want to show and/or breed from your chosen kitten as to the 'typiness' of the cat you purchase. The price you pay may reflect this. Some breeders will be happy to see a kitten go to a good 'pet' home for slightly less than for a kitten of show or breeding quality. However, there can never be any guarantee that a kitten will turn out to be a show-winner or prolific breeder, so it is important that you want the kitten for its own sake regardless of its future potential.

Do make sure the kitten you are buying is registered on the appropriate register before taking it from the breeder.

The price you pay will include the cost of vaccinations and registration, and will also contribute to the breeder's costs of rearing and caring for the litter. It is sensible to ask the breeder for an approximate cost when making your enquiry so that you can consider this before visiting to avoid disappointment all round.

The Rex Cat Association members recognise their responsibility as breeders and lovers of these fascinating creatures and will take great care to ensure that their kittens are happy, healthy, house-trained and ready to leave the litter. This will be approximately fourteen weeks old.

You will be expected to answer a lot of questions from the breeder, who will want to ensure their kittens all go to permanent, caring and well prepared homes.

You will need to have found a good veterinary surgeon nearby in case of any emergencies and be able to assure the breeder that you can afford any costs which may be incurred.

You will have prepared your home for a new kitten, ensuring that a safe, warm sleeping area is available. (Note: Rexes tend to find a human bed to share!)

A litter tray will need to be provided, and it is a good idea to check the type of litter used by the breeder to make the kitten feel more secure. The same will apply to cat food brands.

The breeder will invite you to visit to see the kittens. This is your opportunity to ask questions and seek advice and information. You will also see how the cats behave, (or more appropriately, how Rexes misbehave), and a clearer picture should emerge.

DO NOT agree to buy a kitten if you are not TOTALLY sure that it is what you want or can cope with. Breeders will be much happier with your honestly than if they find a kitten has to be returned at a later date.

(Please make sure you do not visit more than one breeder in one day to prevent cross-infection).

If all goes well, and the Breeder is satisfied that you will make a good Rex owner, you will be given clear instructions on the final stage, which is taking your kitten home, for which you must prepare carefully. A strong purpose made carrier is essential.

The breeder will want to keep in touch with you, and it is always much appreciated if a photograph and some news is sent after the settling-in period. Should there be any problems at any time, the breeder should be your first contact. Members of the Rex Cat Association will ALWAYS agree to help out, and, if necessary, take back the cat themselves for rehoming.

Try to take your kitten home at the weekend, or when you are on holiday when you will have plenty of time to help your kitten settle in. If you have any other pets, make sure they do not startle the kitten, likewise children! Getting a kitten for Christmas or for a young persons birthday is not always a good idea as both are busy and hectic times and you may not be able to give your kitten the necessary care and attention it requires during this period.

Once you have your kitten home, you must ensure that it is kept warm. The Rex breed dislike cold and will seek out somewhere with heat, and not always in the safest place, so a cosy bed of their own is a must.

Like most cats they also appreciate a clean tray, so you will be constantly removing soiled litter. Likewise for bowls and dishes. Food is rarely left, so it is a good idea to wash bowls immediately after use, and leave a little dried food in-between meals.