Breed Guide

German Rex

General Information

The German Rex is a rare and elegant cat breed that originated in Germany and is closely related to other Rex breeds. Known for its affectionate and people-oriented nature, it thrives in households where it can spend plenty of time with its family. These cats are intelligent, playful, and curious, often following their owners around and enjoying interactive activities. Their unique coat and lively temperament make them stand out among cat enthusiasts, although they remain less common than many other breeds.

Physical:

The German Rex is a medium-sized cat with a slender but muscular build, giving it both elegance and agility. Its most distinctive feature is the short, soft, and wavy coat that lies close to the body, similar in texture to plush velvet. The head is round with prominent cheekbones, medium-sized ears set slightly high, and expressive oval-shaped eyes that come in various colors. To identify a true German Rex, look for its dense and rippling coat without bald patches, a balanced body with fine bones yet firm muscles, and a friendly, alert expression that reflects the breed’s social temperament.

Personality:

The German Rex is a friendly and affectionate cat that thrives on human companionship and enjoys being involved in daily activities. It is intelligent, playful, and curious, often showing dog-like loyalty by following its owner from room to room. Despite its active nature, it is also gentle and enjoys cuddle time, making it a versatile companion that balances playfulness with affection. Its social temperament means it usually gets along well with children, other cats, and even cat-friendly dogs, provided it is properly introduced.

Health & Care:

The German Rex has a short, soft, and wavy coat that is unique to the breed. Unlike some other curly-coated cats, its fur is plush and velvety, lying close to the body with a fine texture. The coat is low-maintenance and rarely mats, though occasional brushing helps to remove loose hairs and keep it looking sleek.

Hygiene

Full baths are rarely needed and only when the cat is visibly dirty, using a mild, cat-safe shampoo.

Nails should be trimmed every 2–3 weeks with a proper cat nail clipper; if unsure, a veterinarian or professional groomer can assist.

Teeth should be brushed 2–3 times per week using a cat toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste—ask a vet to demonstrate proper technique if you’ve never done this before.

Ears should be checked weekly and cleaned gently with a cotton pad or a vet-recommended solution as needed.

Common Health Issues

The German Rex is generally a healthy and resilient breed, but they can be prone to certain conditions. Some individuals may develop hereditary issues such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a heart condition seen in various breeds, or patellar luxation, which affects the knee joint. Dental problems like gingivitis can also occur if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. Because of their short, wavy coat, they do not suffer from many grooming-related issues, but keeping an eye on skin health is important. Regular veterinary checkups help catch potential problems early and ensure a long, healthy life.

History:

Origin

The German Rex originated in Germany in the early 1950s, when a curly-coated cat named Lämmchen was discovered in a hospital garden in East Berlin. She became the foundation of the breed after being bred with both European Shorthairs and other domestic cats, establishing the Rex’s unique curly coat and affectionate temperament. Although less well-known than the Cornish or Devon Rex, the German Rex holds the distinction of being the first recognized Rex breed. Today, it remains rare outside Europe but is cherished by enthusiasts for its playful, people-oriented nature and its historical significance.

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