Cats come in many shapes, sizes, and coat types. Among the most unique are the Rex breeds – cats with soft, curly fur. Two lesser-known but beautiful Rex breeds are the German Rex and the Ural Rex. Though they look similar at first, they come from different parts of the world and have their own special traits.
Let’s take a closer look at both of them.
What is a Rex Cat?
Before we talk about the German and Ural Rex, it’s helpful to understand what “Rex” means. In cat breeds, “Rex” refers to a coat that is curly or wavy, instead of straight. This type of fur happens due to a genetic change (mutation), and different Rex breeds have different types of curls.
German Rex
Origin:
The German Rex is one of the first curly-coated cats known in Europe. This breed began in Germany in the 1950s. The first known German Rex was a cat named Lämmchen, which means “little lamb” in German – a perfect name for a soft, curly-coated kitty!
Appearance:
The German Rex has:
- A short, soft, and wavy coat that feels like velvet.
- Big, round eyes and medium-sized ears.
- A slim but muscular body.
The curls in their fur come from a gene different from other Rex breeds like the Cornish Rex or Devon Rex.
Personality:
German Rex cats are:
- Friendly and social
- Playful and active
- Good with children and other pets
They enjoy being around people and may follow their owners around the house.
Care:
Their short coat doesn’t shed much, but regular brushing helps keep it clean. These cats are usually healthy and easy to care for.
Ural Rex
Origin:
The Ural Rex comes from the Ural region of Russia. This breed is much newer than the German Rex, first noticed in the late 1980s and 1990s. The breed developed naturally in this region, and breeders worked to preserve its special curly coat.
Appearance:
The Ural Rex has:
- A soft, curly coat that can be short or semi-long.
- A slightly rounded head with large eyes.
- A medium-sized body that is elegant but strong.
Its coat curls differently than the German Rex. The curls are often tighter, and some Ural Rex cats may have more waves on the neck and chest.
Personality:
Ural Rex cats are:
- Gentle and quiet
- Loyal and affectionate
- Good with families and other pets
They may be a little more reserved than German Rex cats but are still loving and enjoy human company.
Care:
Like the German Rex, their curly coat is low-shedding, but it still needs regular brushing, especially for the long-haired ones. They are generally healthy and make great house pets.
German Rex vs. Ural Rex – Key Differences
| Feature | German Rex | Ural Rex |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Germany (1950s) | Ural region, Russia (1980s-90s) |
| Coat | Short, velvety, wavy | Short or semi-long, tighter curls |
| Body Type | Slim and muscular | Medium-sized and strong |
| Personality | Outgoing, playful | Calm, gentle |
| Shedding | Low | Low |
| Rarity | Rare | Very rare outside Russia |
Which One is Right for You?
Both the German Rex and Ural Rex make great pets. If you want a playful and curious cat that enjoys attention, the German Rex might be perfect. If you prefer a calmer, more relaxed cat, the Ural Rex could be a better fit.
Both breeds are still quite rare, so you might need to search carefully to find a breeder or shelter that has one.
Final Thoughts
The German Rex and Ural Rex are two lovely and unusual cat breeds with curly coats and sweet personalities. Even though they come from different parts of the world, they both bring charm, love, and fun into any home. If you’re looking for a unique and affectionate feline friend, either of these Rex cats would be a wonderful choice.
