German Rex

A velvety coat and an interest in shared discoveries

A small movement beneath a sheet of paper may immediately interest a German Rex. She watches closely, extends a paw and tries to catch the hidden toy. The international cat federation FIFe describes the breed as lively, playful and closely bonded to people. Someone who enjoys actively playing with a cat may find much to enjoy here.

Trust also grows during quieter moments. A cat willingly resting beside you need not constantly be stroked or picked up. You should explore which touches she enjoys and watch her signals. If she turns away or withdraws, she should be able to remain undisturbed. In a new home, a quiet beginning and encounters where she chooses to approach help her settle.

Even a sociable cat may initially find an unfamiliar cat overwhelming. Introductions should progress gradually, using separate areas and providing each cat with feeding places, litter trays and retreats. Children should offer toys rather than fingers as prey and avoid disturbing her sleep. This makes shared time more pleasant for everyone.

Games that offer small discoveries

It is worth varying a German Rex’s games. A wand attachment can first disappear around a chair leg. On another occasion, a ball rolls into an open box for her to retrieve with a paw. Small movements and opportunities to watch, stalk and catch are what make these games interesting. The attachment should regularly land within her paws so she can really catch her toy prey.

Not every activity needs running. A simple puzzle feeder or a few pieces of her usual dry food hidden in easily reached places can turn finding the next portion into a search. This amount should be taken from the daily allowance. For shared hunting games, you should choose moments when she is naturally attentive. Brief games can fit between periods of rest.

The home should also offer climbing routes, scratching surfaces and hiding places. A wide window perch may interest her if the window is secured against falls and escapes. Several accessible beds help her choose between company and quiet. If an adult was previously accustomed to outdoor access, you should discuss how the new home could provide it, or what other arrangement would suit her established habits, before adopting her.

For practical play, food searches and quiet retreats, read Indoor Cat Enrichment: Play, Food Puzzles and Safe Retreats ↗

Everyday cat training: carriers, grooming and confidence ↗

Grooming fine waves gently

The coat feels soft and velvety because it lacks the longer, coarser guard hairs. The remaining hairs form short waves. Density can vary between cats. FIFe’s standard also describes shorter, curled whiskers.

Grooming should therefore be gentle. A soft brush or a gentle grooming mitt can remove loose hair without pulling hard on the curls. A few light strokes are enough to begin with. You should watch which tool she finds comfortable and how her coat responds. The British Animal Welfare Committee’s advice notes that curved Rex hairs may break more readily during brushing. Heavy pressure and vigorous brushing should be avoided.

Stroking her also offers a chance to check the skin. New bald patches, crusts, redness or unusually frequent licking should be investigated. Whiskers should neither be shortened nor pulled out. These sensory hairs help the cat detect her immediate surroundings. A cat grooming normally generally does not need a bath. A soft damp cloth may be sufficient for local dirt.