Photo: Desaix83, d'après le travail d'Heikki Siltala · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cat breed

German Rex

AffectionatePlayfulPeople-orientedCuriousGentle

The German Rex is a cat with a soft, wavy, curly coat that gives it a slightly tousled look. Most are described as affectionate and people-oriented, happy to follow their owners from room to room and to join in on the household's routines. They tend to be playful and curious, and they usually get along well with children and other cats when introduced gradually.

Day to day, a German Rex does best with regular interactive play, puzzle feeders, and some vertical space to climb. Because the coat has little insulation, many owners keep them indoors and make sure they have warm places to rest. They also need steady company, so they are a good fit for homes where someone is around for much of the day.

Good for: Affectionate homes, first-time cat owners, families with kids

Origin

Germany

Living with a German Rex

Exercise

German Rex cats need daily interactive play, such as wand toys and short chase sessions, plus climbing spaces. Indoor enrichment matters more than long walks for this breed.

Grooming

The curly coat is low shedding and needs only occasional gentle brushing to keep it looking tidy. Bathing is rarely needed, and oily skin can be wiped with a damp cloth between baths.

Health

The German Rex is generally considered a healthy breed, though it can be prone to some skin sensitivities and heart conditions seen in cats more broadly. Ask your vet about screening and what to watch for.

Questions owners ask

Do German Rex cats shed a lot?

They shed much less than most cats because the coat is short and curly, but they still lose some hair. Regular brushing once a week helps keep loose hair under control.

Can a German Rex live in an apartment?

Yes, they adapt well to apartments as long as they get daily play and climbing options. Keeping them indoors is common and helps protect them from temperature extremes.

Are German Rex cats noisy?

They are generally quieter than many breeds, but they are talkative and may chirp or meow to get attention. Most are not excessively vocal when their needs are met.