8 Types of Rex Cat Breed: The Complete Guide to Curly, Wavy, and Unique Cats

What Makes a Cat a Rex?

All Rex cats share a genetic mutation that changes how their coat grows. A normal cat coat has three layers. There is the coarse guard hair on top, the middle awn hairs, and the soft downy undercoat. In rex cats, one or more of these layers are missing or altered. That is what creates the wave and curl. Because different rex breeds have different mutations, the curls can look very different. Some have tight waves from head to tail. Others have loose waves only on the body. Many rex cats also have curly whiskers and eyebrows. This is not a health problem. It is simply how their fur grows. The Cornell Feline Health Center notes that coat mutations are common in cats and usually do not affect health. What does affect life with a rex is personality, because these cats are some of the most social and interactive you will meet.

1. Devon Rex

The Devon Rex is often the first rex people think of. It has a very distinct look with large ears set low on the head, big eyes, and a slender body. The coat is short and soft with loose waves that feel like suede. Devons are famous for their personality. They are mischievous, affectionate, and extremely social. They do not like to be left alone and will follow you from room to room. It loves to climb on people and will often sit on shoulders. They are smart and playful, and they learn tricks easily. Grooming is simple because the coat is short, but you do need to wipe them down occasionally because skin oils can build up without guard hairs. They get cold easily, so they love warm spots and blankets. Our full Devon Rex guide goes deeper into care and personality.

2. Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex is often confused with the Devon, but they are a separate breed with a different mutation. Cornish have taller, bat-like ears and a very athletic, slender body. Their coat is short, tight, and wavy with no guard hairs at all. It feels incredibly soft, almost like warm velvet. Cornish Rex cats are athletes. They jump high, run fast, and love to play. It is also very vocal and will talk to you throughout the day. They need a lot of daily play, or they become restless. They bond closely to their people and are great with kids and other pets. Because their coat is so fine, they need gentle brushing and occasional baths. They also feel the cold more than other cats. If you want an active and engaging companion, the Cornish is a great choice. You can read more in our Cornish Rex guide.

3. Selkirk Rex

The Selkirk Rex is the newest and the fluffiest of the rex group. Selkirks were developed in the 1980s and can have either short or long hair. The curls are loose and plush, more like a sheep than tight waves. They have a round face, a muscular body, and a very sweet expression. Personality-wise, Selkirks are the calmest of the rex breeds. They are cuddly, laid-back, and great with families. They still enjoy play, but they are also happy to nap with you. Grooming depends on coat length. Shorthaired Selkirks need weekly brushing. Longhaired ones need more to prevent mats. They are sturdy cats and do well in homes with kids. Their easygoing nature makes them one of the best rex breeds for first-time owners.

4. LaPerm Rex

The LaPerm started as a barn cat in Oregon with naturally curly fur. Breeders recognized the mutation and developed it into a breed. LaPerms have medium to long coats with loose ringlets that look like soft dreadlocks. The curls can be tight when wet and looser when dry. Their personality is gentle and affectionate. LaPerms are not as demanding as Devons, but they still want to be near you. They are curious and playful but also calm. Grooming is unique because you do not brush them like a normal longhair. Instead, you comb gently to avoid breaking the curls. They are known for being good with children and other animals. The CFA LaPerm breed standard describes them as friendly and people-oriented.

5. German Rex

The German Rex is one of the oldest rex breeds, and it originated in Germany in the 1950s. It looks similar to the Cornish but has a stockier body and a softer, denser coat. The waves are loose, and the fur feels plush. German Rex cats are intelligent and social. They like to play, but they are also content to relax with their family. They are not as widely known as Devons or Cornish, so they can be harder to find outside of Europe. Their care is similar to other shorthaired rex cats. Weekly brushing, ear checks, and keeping them warm in winter are important. They are healthy cats and make great companions for people who want a rare rex with a calm temperament.

6. Ural Rex

The Ural Rex comes from Russia and was recognized as a breed in the early 2000s. They can have short or semi-long hair with soft waves. Their body is medium and muscular, and they have round eyes and a friendly face. Ural Rex cats are known for being gentle and adaptable. They get along well with children and other pets. They are playful but not as high-energy as Cornish Rex. Their coat is easy to care for with regular brushing. Because they are still rare, most Ural Rex cats are found in Russia and Eastern Europe. They are healthy and have a long lifespan with proper care. If you like the rex look but want a calmer cat, the Ural is worth learning about.

7. Tennessee Rex

The Tennessee Rex is a very rare breed that started in Tennessee in 2004. The original cat was a stray with tight curls and a soft coat. Breeders worked to establish the breed, and now they have short, dense, curly coats. Tennessee Rex cats are medium in size and have a sweet, outgoing personality. They are social and love to be with their people. They are not as active as Cornish, but they still enjoy play and toys. Because the breed is so new, there are very few breeders. Grooming is easy with weekly brushing. They are healthy and do well in family homes. If you ever meet a Tennessee Rex, you are seeing something very uncommon.

8. Oregon Rex

The Oregon Rex was one of the first Rex breeds discovered in the United States back in the 1950s. It is now considered extinct as a separate breed, but its genes live on in other rex breeds. Oregon Rex cats had a curly coat and a slender body. They were known for being friendly and playful. Today, when people talk about Rex cats in the US, they are usually referring to Devon, Cornish, or Selkirk. The Oregon Rex is included in historical lists because it helped show that the Rex mutation could appear naturally in different places. Even though you cannot adopt an Oregon Rex today, it is an important part of Rex history.

Personality Traits All Rex Cats Share

Even though the 8 types of Rex breeds look different, they share some core traits. Rex cats are extremely social. They will follow you, sit on you, and talk to you. They figure things out quickly, and they get bored without stimulation. Play is essential. Fifteen to twenty minutes twice a day keeps them happy. They are also good with other pets and with children if socialized early. Because they are so people-oriented, they are not ideal for someone who is away from home all day. If you work long hours, consider getting two, so they have company.

Care and Grooming for Rex Cats

Grooming a rex is different from grooming a regular cat. Because they lack guard hairs, their coats are delicate. Use a soft brush or just your hand to smooth the waves. Rough brushing will break the curls. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks helps remove skin oils, especially for Devons and Cornish. Check ears weekly because large ears can collect wax. Keep them warm in winter because they lose heat faster than other cats. A diet should be high in protein to support their active lifestyle. Wet food helps with hydration. Weight management is important because some rex cats love food. For general grooming guidance, the ASPCA offers tips that work well for rex coats.

Health and Lifespan

Rex cats are generally healthy and live 12 to 15 years. No disease is directly linked to the rex gene itself. However, responsible breeding is important. Good breeders test for common cat health issues like HCM and kidney disease. Because their skin is more exposed, watch for dryness if you bathe them too often. Dental care matters for all cats, and Rex cats are no exception. Brushing teeth or using dental treats helps. Weight control is also key because an overweight cat can develop joint problems. With regular vet visits and good care, a Rex cat can be a healthy companion for many years.

Which Rex Breed Is Right For You?

Choosing between the 8 types of Rex cat breeds comes down to energy and personality. If you want a playful and mischievous cat, the Devon Rex is perfect. If you want an athlete who loves to run and jump, pick the Cornish Rex. LaPerms are great for people who want a gentle, longhaired cat. German and Ural Rex are good for those who want something rare and calm. Tennessee Rex is for collectors who love rare breeds. The Oregon Rex is more for historical interest. Think about your schedule, your home, and how much time you can spend playing. All Rex cats need interaction, so choose the one whose energy matches yours.

Cost and Where to Find Them

Rex cats are not as common as domestic shorthairs, so you will usually find them through breeders. Prices range from 800 to 1800 dollars depending on the breed and breeder. Devon and Cornish are the most available. Selkirk and LaPerm are a bit rarer. German, Ural, and Tennessee Rexes are very rare outside their home countries. Always ask for health testing and visit the cattery if you can. You can also check breed-specific rescues. Sometimes Rex cats end up in shelters because people did not realize how social they are. Adoption is a great option if you find one.

Final Thoughts

The 8 types of Rex cat breeds prove that curly coats come with big personalities. These cats are not just pretty to look at. They are smart, funny, and deeply bonded to their people. They want to be with you, play with you, and be part of your family. Whether you choose a mischievous Devon, an athletic Cornish, or a cuddly Selkirk, you are getting a cat that will make every day more interesting. They do need time and attention, but the love they give back is worth it. If you want a cat that looks different and acts differently, a rex is a wonderful choice. For more on curly and unique cats, see our Sphynx care guide or explore our smartest cat breeds list.