What is the difference between a American Shorthair and a Cornish Rex?

The American Shorthair is 8–12 lbs sized while the Cornish Rex is 5–10 lbs sized. They differ in size (8–12 lbs vs 5–10 lbs), lifespan (15–20 years vs 11–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, American Shorthair or Cornish Rex?

American Shorthair is generally good with kids. Cornish Rex is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, American Shorthair or Cornish Rex?

The American Shorthair has a lifespan of 15–20 years while the Cornish Rex has a lifespan of 11–15 years.

American Shorthair vs Cornish Rex — Breed Comparison

About the American Shorthair

The American Shorthair descends from European cats brought to North America on ships like the Mayflower, where they earned their keep as skilled mousers. This medium-to-large breed weighs 8–15 pounds and boasts a powerful, well-proportioned build with a broad chest. Their dense, short coat comes in over 80 recognized colors and patterns, with the classic silver tabby being the most iconic.

Temperament & Personality

American Shorthairs are easygoing, adaptable cats that strike a perfect balance between playful and laid-back. They are patient and gentle with children, coexist peacefully with other pets, and are content to entertain themselves when the family is busy. Their calm, even temperament and low-maintenance nature have made them one of America's most popular breeds for decades.

Pros

Exceptionally healthy breed with a lifespan of 15–20 years
Low-maintenance coat that rarely mats or tangles
Independent enough to handle owners' work schedules without anxiety
Natural mouser — helps keep the home pest-free

Cons

Prone to obesity if diet and exercise are not carefully managed
Can be reserved with strangers and may take time to warm up
Not as interactive or trainable as more active breeds
Seasonal shedding can be heavy despite the short coat

Ready to welcome an American Shorthair into your home? Browse available cats for adoption on Puplister.

About the Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex originated in 1950 in Cornwall, England, when a curly-coated kitten named Kallibunker appeared in an otherwise normal litter on a farm. This small-to-medium breed weighs 5–10 pounds and has a distinctive greyhound-like body — arched back, tucked waist, and long, slender legs built for speed. Their coat is uniquely composed of only the soft, curly down layer — lacking the outer guard hairs and middle awn hairs that other cats possess — creating a washboard-like wave pattern.

Temperament & Personality

Cornish Rex cats are energetic, acrobatic, and endlessly entertaining — they retain their kitten-like playfulness well into their senior years. They are extremely social, love to be held and handled, and will seek out the warmest lap or blanket in the house. They thrive with children and other active pets, and their clownish antics make them natural performers.

Pros

Minimal shedding — soft, wavy coat produces less loose hair than most breeds
Extremely active and entertaining — loves to play fetch and perform acrobatic leaps
Warmth-seeking and cuddly — an ideal lap cat and bed warmer
Highly social and does well in busy, active households

Cons

Thin coat provides little insulation — sensitive to cold and drafts
Prone to hair loss (hypotrichosis) and skin oil buildup requiring regular bathing
High metabolism means they eat more relative to their size and can be picky eaters
Can be demanding of attention and may act out if bored or ignored

Bring home the playful energy of a Cornish Rex — explore cats available for adoption on Puplister.

American Shorthair vs Cornish Rex