Cornish Rex vs Sphynx

Which cat breed is right for you?

Cornish Rex

Size
5–10 lbs
Lifespan
11–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Playful Adventurous Intelligent Social

Sphynx

Size
6–12 lbs
Lifespan
8–14 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Social Energetic Curious Affectionate

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.

About the Sphynx

The Sphynx originated in Toronto, Canada, in 1966 when a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten due to a natural genetic mutation. Through careful breeding with Devon Rex and other cats, the Sphynx was established as a robust breed. Weighing 6–12 pounds, this medium-sized cat is famous for its apparent hairlessness — though most Sphynx have a fine layer of peach-fuzz that gives their skin a warm, suede-like texture. Their wrinkled skin, lemon-shaped eyes, enormous ears, and pot belly give them an unmistakable extraterrestrial appearance.

Temperament & Personality

Sphynx cats are extroverted clowns that crave human attention and warmth — literally, as they seek out body heat and will burrow under blankets or curl up on any available lap. They are fearless, social, and endlessly entertaining, performing acrobatic feats and greeting everyone — including strangers — with enthusiasm. They do wonderfully with children, dogs, and other cats.

Pros

  • No fur shedding on furniture or clothing
  • Extremely social, affectionate, and entertaining — the ultimate companion cat
  • Gets along with virtually everyone — kids, dogs, strangers, other cats
  • Unique, striking appearance that turns heads wherever they go

Cons

  • Requires weekly baths to remove oil buildup that would normally be absorbed by fur
  • Highly susceptible to sunburn, cold, and skin infections
  • Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hereditary myopathy
  • High metabolism means they eat more than similarly sized cats and need a warm environment

Captivated by this hairless wonder? Find Sphynx cats looking for warm, loving homes on Puplister — your next cuddle buddy awaits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Cornish Rex and a Sphynx?
The Cornish Rex is 5–10 lbs sized while the Sphynx is 6–12 lbs sized. They differ in size (5–10 lbs vs 6–12 lbs), lifespan (11–15 years vs 8–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Cornish Rex or Sphynx?
Cornish Rex is generally good with kids. Sphynx is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Cornish Rex or Sphynx?
The Cornish Rex has a lifespan of 11–15 years while the Sphynx has a lifespan of 8–14 years.

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