Cats of which breed were first discovered near an abandoned tin mine among wild kittens? - briefly
The Cornish Rex breed was first discovered near an abandoned tin mine among wild kittens. This breed is recognized for its short, curly coat and distinctive appearance.
Cats of which breed were first discovered near an abandoned tin mine among wild kittens? - in detail
The Cornish Rex is a distinctive breed of cat that has an interesting origin story tied to an abandoned tin mine. The breed's history begins in the early 1950s in Cornwall, England. In 1950, a tortoiseshell and white female cat named Serena gave birth to a litter of kittens near an abandoned tin mine. Among these kittens was a male with an unusually short, curly coat. This unique appearance caught the attention of local breeders, particularly a woman named Nina Ennismore.
Ennismore was intrigued by the curly-coated kitten and decided to acquire him. She named him Kallibunker and began a breeding program to develop this new breed. Kallibunker was mated with his mother, Serena, and other local shorthaired cats. The resulting litters consistently produced kittens with the same curly coat, confirming that the trait was hereditary.
The Cornish Rex's curly coat is the result of a natural mutation that affects the development of hair. Unlike other breeds with curly coats, the Cornish Rex lacks guard hairs and down hairs, giving it a soft, wavy texture that is unique to the breed. This mutation is recessive, meaning that both parents must carry the gene for it to be expressed in their offspring.
The breed's development was further aided by the introduction of outcrossing with other breeds, such as the British Shorthair and the Burmese. This helped to diversify the gene pool and improve the overall health and temperament of the Cornish Rex. The breed was officially recognized by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in the United Kingdom in 1957 and by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in the United States in 1964.
The Cornish Rex is known for its slender, elegant build and energetic personality. These cats are highly active and enjoy climbing, jumping, and playing. They are also intelligent and can be trained to perform various tricks. Their short, curly coats require minimal grooming, making them a popular choice for allergy sufferers.
The breed's unique appearance and lively temperament have made it a favorite among cat enthusiasts worldwide. The Cornish Rex's origin story, rooted in the wild kittens found near an abandoned tin mine, adds to its allure and fascination. Today, the breed continues to be cherished for its distinctive features and charming personality.