German Rex

Breed Overview

Introduction

Imagine a cat with the playful spirit of a kitten that never truly fades, a coat as soft as velvet, and a devotion to its human family that rivals that of a canine companion. This is the German Rex.

This breed, while relatively rare, holds a special place in the hearts of those who encounter its unique charm and engaging personality. Its distinctive appearance, coupled with a highly sociable and intelligent nature, makes the German Rex a captivating subject for any cat enthusiast.

This report delves into the fascinating history, physical attributes, behavior, care requirements, and health considerations of this remarkable German feline.

Breed History

The story of the German Rex is rooted in post-World War II Germany, though earlier curly-coated cats were noted. One such early mention is Kater Munk, a curly-coated tomcat born around 1930 or 1931 near Königsberg (now Kaliningrad, Russia).

Munk, the offspring of an Angora and a Russian Blue, widely spread his genes in the local cat population until his death in 1944 or 1945.

However, German Rex researchers generally do not consider Kater Munk to be directly related to the modern German Rex breed, as he was never intentionally bred. This suggests a distinction between spontaneous occurrences of the “Rex” gene and the deliberate establishment of a breed.

The true foundation of the modern German Rex breed is widely attributed to a black, curly-coated female cat named Lämmchen (German for “little lamb”).

Dr. Rose Scheuer-Karpin discovered Lämmchen in the garden of Hufelandklinik hospital in Berlin-Buch in the summer of 1951, though hospital personnel had known the cat since 1947. Lämmchen became the matriarch of all current German Rex cats. 

The genetic basis for the German Rex’s curly coat is a recessive mutation, meaning both parents must carry the “Rex” gene for kittens to exhibit the trait.

Lämmchen, despite having several litters with a straight-coated stray tom, Blackie, produced her first two deliberately bred curly-coated kittens in a 1957 litter of four, after being bred with her own straight-coated son, Fridolin.

Lämmchen left a legacy of Rex and crossbred descendants until 1962. Interestingly, many of her offspring were used to improve other breeds, particularly the Cornish Rex, which was experiencing skin problems due to a limited gene pool.

The genetic compatibility between the Cornish Rex and German Rex was later confirmed, as interbreeding produced curly-coated kittens, unlike the Cornish Rex-Devon Rex cross which produced straight-coated offspring.

By 1968, the German Rex lineage relied heavily on the efforts of the “vom Grund” cattery in East Germany, which acquired the last three of Lämmchen’s Rex offspring not sold abroad. They amplified the lineage by crossing with European Shorthairs and mixed-breeds.

A stable stock was eventually established in West Germany by the “von Zeitz” cattery in 1973. Despite these efforts, the German Rex remains a rare breed today, even in its country of origin.

Physical Characteristics

The German Rex is a cat of medium size, presenting a slender yet muscular physique. Despite its fine boning, which might make it feel delicate, the German Rex is an athletic and robust animal, not at all fragile. Its legs are of medium length and slender, ending in oval-shaped paws.

The head is distinctly round, featuring well-developed cheeks and a strong chin. The ears are medium to large, open, and have rounded tips, set slightly outward.

The eyes are of medium size and round, often appearing large relative to the head. Their color can vary widely, typically correlating with the coat color, with common shades including blue, green, gold, and hazel.

The most defining characteristic is, without doubt, its coat. It is short, silky, and naturally curls or waves across the entire body, including the belly and tail. The coat’s thickness is notably less than that of common cats, being only about 65% of normal thickness and half as long, which has implications for the cat’s sensitivity to temperature.  

Adding to their unique appearance, the whiskers of the German Rex are also curled. However, this curling can sometimes limit their tactile function, which is an important sensory organ for orientation and hunting.

This physical trait means the cat might rely less on its whiskers for navigation, especially in low-light conditions, a factor potential owners should be aware of.

Physical Characteristics

The German Rex is renowned for its exceptionally friendly and people-focused nature. These cats form strong, deep bonds with their human companions, often described as “velcro cats” due to their desire to be constantly near their owners.

They thrive on interaction and attention, happily following their humans from room to room, eager to be involved in all household activities. This intense need for companionship means they do not tolerate loneliness well and may become stressed if left alone for extended periods. 

Their personality is often likened to that of a “perpetual kitten,” maintaining a playful and energetic disposition throughout their lives. They are highly intelligent and curious, making them quick learners who enjoy interactive games, puzzles, and even learning tricks like fetching or sitting on command.

Beyond their devotion to humans, German Rex cats are generally very sociable with other animals, including other cats and gentle dogs. Their friendly disposition means they are less likely to be aloof or standoffish, a trait sometimes associated with other cat breeds.

They also exhibit a high tolerance and patience, which makes them particularly suitable for families with children, becoming willing participants in playtime. Early socialization is beneficial to ensure they integrate smoothly into a diverse household.

While generally described as calm, the German Rex is far from phlegmatic. They are lively and active, enjoying opportunities to play, climb, and frolic.

They can be quite vocal, communicating their desires and engaging with their owners through various chirps, meows, and purrs. Their inquisitive minds mean they appreciate a varied environment with plenty of opportunities for exploration and engagement.

Care Guide

Diet

German Rex cats do not have highly specialized dietary requirements, but they thrive on a high-quality, protein-rich diet.

It is recommended to choose cat food where real fish or meat is the primary ingredient, and to prioritize grain-free and gluten-free formulations to support easy digestion and reduce the risk of food sensitivities or allergies. Such diets, often rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids from sources like salmon, also contribute to healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Given that some German Rex individuals may have a weakened immune system, a natural dietary supplement, such as those containing shiitake, can be considered to provide valuable nutrients and strengthen defenses.

Exercise

The German Rex is an athletic, lively, and active cat that requires consistent physical and mental stimulation to maintain its ideal weight and overall well-being. Their energetic personality means they benefit greatly from daily play sessions.

Owners should provide a variety of interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and opportunities for climbing, such as cat trees, shelves, and vertical spaces. These activities not only help them burn off energy but also engage their intelligent and curious minds, preventing boredom and potential destructive behaviors.

Environment & Enrichment

Due to their unique coat lacking dense guard hairs, German Rex cats are more sensitive to cold temperatures than cats with normal fur. For this reason, they are generally best suited as indoor cats.

If they have access to outdoor spaces, such as a secured balcony or catio, it should be sheltered to protect them from temperature extremes. Providing warm, cozy spots and blankets, especially during colder months, is essential for their comfort.

Their highly social and inquisitive nature means they do not thrive when left alone for long periods. They crave human companionship and interaction, often wanting to be part of every household activity.

For owners who work long days, providing ample mental stimulation through puzzle feeders and a variety of toys can help, but consistent, dedicated interaction when at home is crucial.

Grooming

The German Rex’s short, curly coat is considered low-maintenance when it comes to shedding. A gentle brushing once a week with a soft brush or grooming mitt can help remove loose fur and distribute natural oils.

Care should be taken not to over-brush or use harsh tools like rubber grooming gloves, as their delicate hair follicles can be prone to breakage.

A more critical aspect of German Rex grooming involves ear and skin care. Due to the unique structure of their hair follicles and the lack of guard hairs, Rex cats can be prone to excessive wax buildup in their ears and may develop greasy or waxy skin.

Occasional bathing with a mild, cat-specific shampoo may be necessary to manage excess oils or dander, though they are generally not difficult to bathe. Owners should also monitor their skin for any signs of irritation or dryness.

Mental Stimulation

The German Rex is a highly intelligent and curious breed that requires significant mental engagement to thrive. Their sharp minds and eagerness to please make them receptive to training, including learning tricks and commands.

Providing puzzle feeders that require them to “work” for their food can offer prolonged mental challenge and help prevent obesity. Interactive toys that mimic prey, such as wand toys or laser pointers, can satisfy their hunting instincts and provide crucial physical and mental exercise.

Rotating toys to keep them novel can also maintain their interest and prevent boredom. Without adequate mental stimulation, their inquisitive and mischievous nature can lead to unwanted behaviors.

Health Concerns

Is This Breed Right for You?

FAQ

Are German Rex cats hypoallergenic?

No cat breed is truly 100% hypoallergenic, as allergies are caused by a protein (Fel D1) found in cat dander, saliva, and urine, not just fur. However, German Rex cats have a short, curly coat that sheds minimally, which means less fur (and potentially less Fel D1) is distributed in the environment, making them a better option for individuals with mild cat allergies.  

Do German Rex cats shed a lot?

No, German Rex cats are known for their low shedding level. Their unique coat, which lacks guard hairs, tends to trap loose hairs, making them less noticeable around the home.  

What is the personality of a German Rex cat?

German Rex cats are known for being extremely friendly, affectionate, and people-oriented. They are intelligent, playful, and often described as “dog-like” due to their strong bond with humans and desire to be involved in all activities. They are also sociable with children and other pets.  

Do German Rex cats need a lot of grooming?

Their coat is low-maintenance and requires minimal brushing. However, they do require regular ear cleaning due to wax buildup and occasional bathing to manage skin oiliness. Dental hygiene is also important.  

 Are German Rex cats good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are generally very good with children and other household pets. Their patient, sociable, and playful nature makes them adaptable to diverse family environments. Early socialization is always beneficial.  

Bonus Facts

The “Little Lamb” Nickname

The breed’s foundation cat, Lämmchen, was named “little lamb” (German for “lambkin”) due to her striking woolly coat, which resembled that of a sheep. This nickname perfectly captures the unique texture of the German Rex’s fur.  

A Rare Gem

The German Rex is one of the few cat breeds that originated in Germany, and it remains quite rare globally, even in its country of origin. This rarity makes encountering one a special experience.  

Genetic Kinship

The German Rex shares a genetic mutation for its curly coat with the Cornish Rex, and its lineage was even used to improve the Cornish Rex breed at one point. This highlights the fascinating interconnectedness of cat genetics and breeding efforts.  

Whiskers with a Curl

Not just their body fur, but even their whiskers have a distinct curl. While charming, this can sometimes limit their tactile function, which is crucial for a cat’s sensory perception.  

Dog-Like Devotion

German Rex cats are frequently described as having a “dog-like” personality due to their loyalty, eagerness to follow their owners around, and desire to be involved in all family activities. They truly become an integral part of the family dynamic.  

References

Tony Batchelor (April 2006). “The revival of the German Rex”. PawPeds. Archived from the original on 17 June 2024. Retrieved 10 November 2024.

Mrs. dr. R. Scheuer-Karpin, Ilona Jaenicke and Andrea Edel (March 2014). “The Story of the German Rex”. german-rex.lima-city.de. Archived from the original on 2023-02-01. Retrieved 2018-07-16.

Jaenicke, Ilona (2007): Die Geschichte der German Rex [in German].