Californian Rex Cat: appearance, character, care, breeding
Qualified with athletic elegance, the Californian Rex is far from an arrogant port cat; this extremely affectionate cat and close to his master will capsize hearts! Note that this breed of cat is extremely rare and little recognized by most associations.
The origins of the Californian Rex cat
Native to the United States, and more precisely from California from which it takes its name, the Californian rex appeared in 1960. Unlike the Cornish rex, its cousin, the Californian rex has a medium-length, wavy coat ( the hair of the cornish rex being short and wavy).
The ideal cat
The Californian Rex is similar to the format of the oriental cat. Its fine-frame silhouette draws an arched back. From the top of its long, slender and muscular paws, it is often said that it gives the impression of standing in point like a dancer, on its small oval feet.
Its tail is long and thin, whip-shaped, and should have fine, notched fur. Its head is medium in size, long, and it is said to have a “Roman profile”, with a broad, rounded nose. Her eyes are slanted, oval and wide open to the world! Their color must be in harmony with their dress.
Its large, conical ears are set high on the head.
The Californian rex has long whiskers, and must have a semi-long, notched, soft coat, and must not have a jar (this means that it has no hair between the guard hair and the undercoat). The coat is also shorter and denser on the head and legs.
Hair color
All colors are allowed.
The character
The Californian rex is a very affectionate, sociable cat who does not like solitude. It is often in search of attention from his master and it also enjoys the company of other animals very much. it is also a very playful and lively cat, and rather talkative!
Cuddle: Reputedly cuddly, this cat often seeks the presence of humans to snuggle up near them and warm up. Indeed, despite their mid-length coat, it appreciates the warmth of human contact.
Player: It’s slender build makes them adept at running. Daily interactive play sessions will keep them in shape.
Calm: This tomcat is very good at being calm, once its exercise needs are met. Offering them the possibility of perching at a height to observe their living environment will be greatly appreciated.
Intelligent: Curious and creative, the Californian Rex impresses with its intelligence. Training him to learn a few tricks, like pawing or fetching his toy, is a great way to stimulate them intellectually while building a fulfilling relationship with them.
Fearful / Suspicious of Strangers: There are many variations between individuals of the same race, which are explained by genetic factors or associated with life experience. Either way, giving your cat the freedom to explore strangers at their own pace without imposing unwanted contact is a great way to minimize stress.
Independent: Many cats of this breed have developed social qualities and seek the company of humans or other pets. However, this trait varies a lot from cat to cat, depending on their life history.
Behaviour
Talkative: The California Rex can be talkative, especially if we give it our attention when vocalizing!
Greedy / gluttonous: Feeding it in interactive bowls allows it to meet its need for stimulation and to manage its appetite.
Need for Exercise: This feline has a moderate need for exercise, which can be met through individual or interactive play sessions. It is important to vary the toys to maintain its interest.
Runaway: The absence of jar hairs makes the Californian Rex less resistant to thermal variations than other breeds. It would therefore be surprising if he sought to get away from the warmth of their home and its family!
Compatibility
The Californian Rex and the Dogs: This dog and cat relationship can become a beautiful exchange of complicity in the game, on condition that you introduce them to each other gradually while being patient and indulgent. A living environment including high hiding places allows the cat to escape unwanted interactions.
Californian Rex and Other Cats: Generally, cats of this breed coexist well with feline congeners. To promote good relations between the cats in a house, you have to take the time to introduce them to each other gradually and offer them a living environment rich in resources.
Californian Rex and Children: Supervising contact with toddlers is a great way to teach them a respectful approach while making sure everyone gets along. A child who understands Californian Rex body language well can most likely find a great friend to share their games with.
The Californian Rex and the Elderly: It goes without saying that any adopter must be able to provide for the various needs of the animal for which it is responsible. That said, the Californian Rex might very well be a good fit for someone who leads a rather calm life.
Price
On average, the purchase price of a Californian Rex kitten in breeding is around 831.85 USD , the price often varying according to the line, the breeding, the age or even the sex. Given the rarity of this breed, no further evidence has been found regarding an upper limit of the purchase price.
For the monthly budget, it will take an average of 47.53 USD / month to meet his needs, by offering them a quality diet and making sure to keep them in good health.
Maintenance
Grooming: Its maintenance is simple and usually comes down to a weekly brushing. In addition, it is suggested to regularly clean his ears and eyes to prevent the accumulation of secretions.
Hair loss: Even if its coat is medium-long, the hair loss is not very marked, as in its cousin the Cornish Rex. Moreover, the absence of jar hairs and the texture of the guard hair give a characteristic appearance and softness to the Californian Rex’s coat.
Food
It is imperative to offer him a good quality diet, adapted to his level of activity, his age and his medical condition. The recommendations of a veterinarian help establish the nutritional needs of your cat to keep it healthy.
Cares
Be careful, he hates the cold!
Health
Life expectancy: Its longevity is on average 12 to 15 years.
Resistant / robust: Despite its mid-length coat, the general characteristics of its fur make it sensitive to cold temperatures. It is therefore important to ensure that you always keep it warm.
Tendency to gain weight : Like other Rexes, it does not have a particular propensity to be overweight. In all cases, it is recommended to ensure that your physical exercise needs are met daily to prevent overweight.
Common Illnesses: The Californian Rex can suffer from the same illnesses as other domestic cats, such as those associated with oral health. In addition, it is important to be attentive to the development of these pathologies:
The progressive retinal atrophy is a disease which gradually lead to blindness. A genetic screening test is possible
The hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a disease that can affect many breeds and cats without pedigree. Ultimately, it can lead to heart failure. Screening is done by echocardiography, which is usually repeated annually. In case of illness, treatment may be given to alleviate the symptoms.
Reproduction: Marriages are allowed between Californian Rex and with the Cornish Rex. The litters are about 3 kittens.
Good to know
The California Rex does not acquire the ripples of its hair until around the age of 5 to 6 months.
