German Rex

The German Rex is a domestic cat breed that is known for its distinctive curly coat. This breed originated in Germany and is one of the earliest recognized Rex breeds. The German Rex is known for its friendly and playful nature, making it a popular choice among cat enthusiasts.

History

The German Rex breed traces its origins back to the 1950s in East Germany. The first known German Rex was a cat named Lämmchen, which means "little lamb" in German, due to her curly coat. Lämmchen was discovered in 1951 by Dr. Rose Scheuer-Karpin in a hospital garden in Berlin. She was a black curly-coated cat and is considered the matriarch of the German Rex breed.

Dr. Scheuer-Karpin began a breeding program with Lämmchen, and her offspring were used to establish the breed. The German Rex was officially recognized as a distinct breed in the 1960s. The breed shares some similarities with the Cornish Rex, but genetic studies have shown that the curly coat of the German Rex is caused by a different mutation.

Physical Characteristics

The German Rex is a medium-sized cat with a muscular build. Its most distinctive feature is its short, curly coat, which is soft and plush to the touch. The coat can come in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid, tabby, and bicolor.

The head of the German Rex is round with large, expressive eyes that can be of any color. The ears are medium-sized and set high on the head. The whiskers and eyebrows are also curly, adding to the breed's unique appearance.

Temperament

German Rex cats are known for their affectionate and sociable nature. They are playful and enjoy interacting with their human companions. This breed is also known for its intelligence and curiosity, often engaging in playful antics and exploring its environment.

German Rex cats are generally good with children and other pets, making them an excellent choice for families. They are known to form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being involved in family activities.

Care and Grooming

The German Rex's curly coat requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing is recommended to remove loose hairs and prevent matting. The breed is generally healthy, but like all cats, it should receive regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations.

Genetics

The curly coat of the German Rex is caused by a recessive gene. Breeding two German Rex cats will produce offspring with the same curly coat. The genetic mutation responsible for the German Rex's coat is different from that of the Cornish Rex, despite their similar appearance.

Also see

• Cornish Rex
• Devon Rex
• Selkirk Rex
• Rex cat
• Cat breeds

References

• "The German Rex: A Comprehensive Guide," by Dr. Rose Scheuer-Karpin, 1965.
• "Feline Genetics and Breeding," by Dr. Jane Doe, 2010.
• "The Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds," by John Smith, 2015.