Discover the German Rex, a feline breed as intriguing as it is rare. Known for its unique curly coat, the German Rex shares a genetic quirk with the Cornish Rex, resulting in its distinctive appearance. This breed profile delves into the history, characteristics, and genetics of this charming cat, offering insights into its playful personality and the careful breeding practices that have shaped it.
The German Rex cat, with its peculiar curly fur, traces its roots back to 1930s Germany, in what is now Kaliningrad, Russia. The breed's history began with a cat named Kater Munk, born from an Angora and a Russian Blue, who became the progenitor of the curly-coated trait among local feral cats. Although there is no direct lineage to Kater Munk for today's German Rex, he represents one of the earliest documented instances of the breed's defining characteristic.
In 1951, a black, curly-coated cat named Lammchen, meaning 'little lamb,' caught the attention of Dr. Rose Scheuer-Karpin in Berlin. Lammchen is considered the matriarch of the German Rex breed. By 1957, she had given birth to a litter that included two curly-haired kittens, furthering the breed's development.
The German Rex underwent crossbreeding with the Cornish Rex in the 1960s to address skin issues caused by a limited gene pool. However, by 1968, breeders refocused on the German Rex, experimenting with crosses to European Shorthairs. By 1973, the FRG von Zeitz cattery had established a successful breeding program.
Another line of Rex cats emerged in Berlin in the late 1950s, with a tom named Schnurzel, believed to be a descendant of Lammchen, contributing to the breed's enhancement.
The German Rex is a medium-sized cat with a medium-length body and slender legs. Its round head, large, open ears, and medium-sized eyes, which match the coat color, give it a distinctive look. The coat is silky, short, and curly, including the whiskers, though to a lesser extent than the Cornish Rex. All coat colors are accepted for pedigree cats, including white.
In terms of personality, the German Rex is known for its friendly nature and strong bond with its owners. These intelligent cats are lively and playful, sharing many temperament traits with their Cornish Rex relatives.
The genetic mutation responsible for the German Rex's curly coat is the same as that of the Cornish Rex—a recessive trait. This means that both parents must carry the gene for their offspring to exhibit the Rex coat. The mutation is believed to have occurred spontaneously, with historical anecdotes suggesting the presence of curly-coated cats long before they were officially documented. The recessive gene would have been present in many straight-coated descendants of early Rex cats, only producing Rex kittens if two carriers were to mate.
While the German Rex is not as widely known as other cat breeds, it has a dedicated following among cat enthusiasts. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), the German Rex is considered a rare breed, with fewer than a few hundred registered worldwide. This scarcity makes them a unique addition to any cat lover's home.
The German Rex's coat is not only visually striking but also hypoallergenic, making it a suitable pet for individuals with mild cat allergies. However, it's important to note that no cat breed is entirely hypoallergenic, as allergens are also found in a cat's saliva and skin.
For those interested in learning more about the German Rex and other Rex breeds, the Cornish Rex Friends organization provides resources and support for owners and breeders.
In conclusion, the German Rex cat breed, with its rich history, captivating appearance, and endearing personality, is a hidden gem in the feline world. Its rarity and the careful breeding practices that have preserved its lineage make it a breed worth preserving and celebrating.
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