With their velvety waves of fur and curious, playful spirit, the German Rex is a cat that seems almost too unique to be real. Born in post-war Germany and still considered one of the rarest breeds in the world, these “curly-coated companions” have earned a reputation for being both whip-smart and endlessly affectionate.

Whether you’re drawn in by their lamb-like appearance, their hypoallergenic reputation, or their loyal, family-friendly nature, the German Rex has a charm all its own making it a hidden gem for cat lovers seeking something truly special.

German Rex Size and Appearance (Physical Traits)

Size & Weight

The German Rex is a medium-sized domestic cat with a well-proportioned, muscular build.

• Weight: Typically 6 to 10 pounds (3 to 5 kg), with males generally heavier than females.
• Height: About 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) at the shoulder. Despite their smaller weight, German Rex cats often appear taller and more elongated due to their long, slender legs.

Coat: The Defining Feature

The coat is the most striking feature of the German Rex, giving the breed its signature soft, plush look.

• Texture: Short, wavy, or curly; often described as velvety, soft, and silky.
• Structure: The coat lacks guard hairs and is made almost entirely of a fine undercoat, similar to the Cornish Rex. This gives it a smooth, cuddly feel.
• Grooming Needs: Shedding is minimal, so grooming is easy. Occasional gentle brushing or bathing may be needed to remove natural oils and maintain the coat’s softness, especially for show cats.

Distinctive Body & Head Shape

The German Rex differs from other Rex breeds with a more solid and muscular build, giving it a robust yet elegant appearance.

• Body: Strong, muscular, and well-proportioned. Heavier and sturdier than the Cornish Rex, with a slightly stocky but athletic frame.
• Head: Rounded with well-developed cheeks and a firm chin, giving a sweet, alert expression.
• Ears & Eyes: Ears are large, open, and upright, complementing the head shape without appearing oversized. Eyes are medium-sized, expressive, and come in any color that harmonizes with the coat, enhancing the cat’s lively and intelligent look.

Colors, Patterns, and Eye Color

One of the most fascinating aspects of the German Rex is the sheer variety of coat colors and patterns allowed within the breed. Unlike some other cat breeds that have strict color standards, the German Rex embraces almost any shade and combination, making each cat unique in appearance.

Coat Colors

German Rex cats can come in virtually any color. Common colors include:

• Solid shades: Black, white, blue, cream, red, chocolate, cinnamon, fawn, platinum, and lilac.
• Bi-color and multi-color patterns: Cats may have combinations of any color with white patches.
• Tabby patterns: Classic, mackerel, spotted, or ticked tabby patterns are all acceptable.
• Rare and exotic shades: Frost, chestnut, seal, and lavender have been seen in some lines.

The primary focus in breeding is the quality and texture of the coat rather than the color itself. The soft, curly or wavy undercoat is what gives the German Rex its signature velvet-like feel, and breeders prioritize maintaining this texture above any specific coloration.

Coat Patterns

All coat patterns are recognized in the German Rex, providing exceptional diversity among individuals:

• Solid: Uniform color over the entire body.
• Tabby: Distinct stripes, spots, or swirls across the coat.
• Tortoiseshell and Calico: Multi-colored patches, often vibrant and striking.
• Bicolor or Tricolor: Combinations of white with other colors in various patterns.

Regardless of color or pattern, the German Rex’s coat remains short, soft, and curly, lacking the guard hairs found in most other breeds. This not only enhances the plush texture but also gives the cat a unique, almost “toy-like” appearance.

Eye Color

German Rex cats exhibit a wide range of eye colors, often harmonizing with the coat to create a balanced and expressive look. Common eye colors include:

• Green – from bright emerald to softer olive tones.
• Gold or Amber – warm shades that stand out beautifully against darker coats.
• Blue – sometimes seen in white or lighter-colored cats.
• Hazel or Yellow – adding depth and warmth to their expression.

While there is no strict standard for eye color, breeders aim for harmony between the coat and eyes, ensuring the cat has a striking and expressive overall appearance.

German Rex and Hypoallergenic Qualities

The German Rex is often considered a cat breed suitable for allergy sufferers, though it is important to understand that no cat is completely hypoallergenic. Their short, curly coat lacks the typical guard hairs found in most breeds, which reduces the amount of loose hair and dander shed around the home. This can make German Rex cats easier on sensitive individuals compared to long-haired or heavy-shedding breeds.

The primary trigger for cat allergies is not the fur itself but a protein called Fel d 1, which is present in saliva, skin, and sebaceous oils. When a cat grooms itself, this protein is deposited on its coat, which can then cause allergic reactions in susceptible people. German Rex cats may produce less Fel d 1 on their shorter, velvety hair, making contact more tolerable for some individuals.

Practical Tips for Allergy Sufferers:

• Spend time with a German Rex first: Interact with the cat for a few hours to gauge your reaction.
• Regular grooming: Weekly brushing helps reduce loose hair and dander. Bathing occasionally can further minimize allergens.
• Clean the environment: Frequent vacuuming, washing bedding, and air filtration can lower allergen levels in the home.
• Separate spaces if needed: Providing cat-free zones can help manage allergy symptoms.

While German Rex cats are often described as “hypoallergenic-friendly,” results vary from person to person. For those with mild cat allergies who want a loving, playful, and intelligent companion, the German Rex can be an excellent choice—but testing personal tolerance before adoption is essential.

Personality, Temperament, and Living with a German Rex

The German Rex is as charming as it is intelligent, making it a delightful companion for cat lovers. These cats are playful, affectionate, and highly social, forming strong bonds with their humans from an early age. They thrive in environments where they receive plenty of attention, mental stimulation, and interactive play.

Despite their lively and energetic nature, German Rex cats are remarkably patient and adaptable, enjoying long cuddle sessions or quiet moments on a sunny windowsill. They are known for their curiosity and acrobatic skills, often climbing, exploring, and investigating every corner of the home. Puzzle toys, feather wands, and gentle training sessions can keep them mentally sharp and entertained.

German Rex cats also tend to get along well with other pets and children when properly socialized. Their friendly and playful demeanor makes them excellent family companions, though early socialization helps ensure harmonious interactions with smaller pets.

Because they are highly people-oriented, German Rex cats don’t like being left alone for long periods. Families or individuals who can devote daily time to play, grooming, and bonding will find this breed especially rewarding. In return, they offer loyalty, affection, and endless entertainment, making them a perfect fit for homes ready to welcome an intelligent, energetic, and loving feline companion.

Finding a German Rex Kitten for Sale

The German Rex is one of the world’s rarest cat breeds, making it far less common than its close relative, the Cornish Rex. This rarity affects both availability and pricing, so prospective owners may need to be patient when searching for a kitten. In many countries, including the United States and the UK, German Rex cats are not widely bred, and litters are limited to a few ethical breeders.

Reputable Breeders

To find a healthy and well-socialized German Rex, it’s essential to seek out reputable sources:

• Breed Clubs: Organizations such as Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) maintain breeder directories and can help you locate ethical breeders, though listings are limited outside of Europe.
• Ethical Breeders: Look for small-scale, family-run breeders who prioritize health screenings, temperament, and socialization over profit. Reputable breeders will often allow you to visit their facilities, meet the kittens’ parents, and provide documentation of vaccinations and pedigree.

Warnings:

• Avoid backyard breeders who may prioritize quantity over health.
• Steer clear of pet stores, as these cats are rarely bred ethically and may come with hidden health or temperament issues.

Expected Cost

German Rex kittens typically range in price depending on pedigree, breeder reputation, and coat quality. On average, you can expect to pay around $500–$1,000 USD for a well-bred kitten. Prices may increase for show-quality cats or kittens with rare colors and patterns.

Adoption Options

Even though German Rex cats are rare, adoption is a viable option:

• Some purebred German Rex cats may end up in rescue organizations or animal shelters, often due to changes in owners’ circumstances.
• Checking general cat rescues or breed-specific rescues, even in neighboring regions, can sometimes lead to finding a kitten or adult cat in need of a home.

Adopting from a shelter not only gives a German Rex a loving home but also helps reduce demand for unethical breeding practices.

Welcoming a German Rex into your home means gaining a playful, intelligent, and affectionate companion with a uniquely soft, curly coat. While this rare breed can be challenging to find, connecting with reputable breeders or rescue organizations ensures you bring home a healthy, well-socialized kitten. By understanding their personality, grooming needs, and care requirements, you can enjoy a deeply rewarding experience with one of the world’s most distinctive and charming cat breeds.