Across homes and rescue centers, certain cats stand out for their springy, wave-like coats and quirky textures. If you enjoy unusual fur types or are deciding which breed to adopt, knowing which cats have naturally curly coats makes comparison easier.
There are 7 curly-haired cat breeds, ranging from Bohemian Rex to Ural Rex. For each breed you’ll find below a compact table organized into columns: Scientific name,Origin,Coat type & grooming — you’ll find below.
Do curly-haired cat breeds need special grooming?
Most have lower shedding but their curls can trap oils and debris, so gentle brushing once or twice a week and occasional baths help keep the coat healthy. Some Rex varieties benefit from minimal handling of the coat and regular skin checks rather than heavy trimming.
Are any curly-haired breeds better for people with cat allergies?
No cat is truly hypoallergenic, but breeds with tighter curls tend to shed less dander, which can reduce allergen spread. If you have allergies, spend time with the specific breed before adopting and consider allergy testing or trial visits.
Curly-Haired Cat Breeds
| Breed | Scientific name | Origin | Coat type & grooming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cornish Rex | Felis catus | Cornwall, England | Very short, fine waves; low to moderate grooming |
| Devon Rex | Felis catus | Devon, England | Soft, curly-to-wavy coat; occasional gentle grooming |
| Selkirk Rex | Felis catus | United States (Montana) | Loose, plush curls in long or short coats; regular gentle brushing |
| LaPerm | Felis catus | United States (Oregon) | Distinct loose curls and ringlets; gentle brushing, occasional baths |
| German Rex | Felis catus | Germany | Soft, short curly coat; low-shedding, easy grooming |
| Ural Rex | Felis catus | Ural region, Russia | Fine curly-to-wavy coat; gentle brushing to prevent tangles |
| Bohemian Rex | Felis catus | Czech Republic | Dense, short curly coat; minimal grooming but mat checks recommended |
Images and Descriptions
Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is a playful, active breed from Cornwall, England, known for a very short, velvety, tightly waved coat. Highly active and affectionate, easy to groom with occasional baths; recognized widely and commonly found through breeders and rescues.
Devon Rex
Devon Rex is a mischievous, people-oriented cat from Devon, England, with soft, curly to wavy coat and large ears. Gentle grooming and occasional bathing; sheds minimally. Popular in show and pet circles, available from dedicated breeders and some rescues.
Selkirk Rex
Selkirk Rex is a sturdy, plush-coated breed from Montana, USA, notable for loose, sheep‑like curls in long or short coats. Calm, tolerant temperament suits families; regular gentle brushing prevents mats. Recognized by major registries and bred internationally.
LaPerm
LaPerm developed in Oregon, USA, and features distinct loose curls and ringlets, ranging long to short. Affectionate, active and people-focused; occasional brushing and careful handling of fragile guard hairs. Increasingly accepted by registries and found with specialist breeders.
German Rex
German Rex, discovered in Germany, sports a soft, short curly coat similar to other rex breeds. Intelligent and affectionate, tends to be calm and adaptable; low-shedding, easy grooming. Less common than Cornish or Devon but recognized by several national registries.
Ural Rex
Ural Rex originates in the Ural region of Russia and has fine, curly to wavy coat with variable density. Friendly and curious, requires gentle brushing to prevent tangles. Rare outside Russia but documented in rex breeder circles and some registries.
Bohemian Rex
Bohemian Rex (Czech Rex) emerged in the Czech Republic with a dense, short curly coat. Playful and people-oriented; grooming is minimal but regular checks for mats help. Regionally recognized, uncommon internationally but present among Central European breeders and enthusiasts.
