Tennessee Rex Cat Breed: Info, Pictures, Temperament & More

The

Tennessee Rex

is a breathtaking new cat breed celebrated for its unique curly, satiny coat that sparkles in the light. Emerging from a natural genetic mutation, these medium-to-large felines combine athletic builds with gentle, affectionate personalities, making them exceptional companions for families, singles, and apartment dwellers alike.

Tennessee Rex Cat Breed Overview

The Tennessee Rex (often called T-Rex) stands out with its

wavy, glistening fur

, long rectangular body, and mellow demeanor. Discovered in 2004 among feral cats in Tennessee, this breed features both shorthair and longhair varieties, all defined by a recessive curl gene paired with a distinctive satin sheen that intensifies coat colors.

Attribute	Details
Height	10–14 inches (medium to large)
Weight	8–15 pounds
Lifespan	12–18 years
Colors	All colors and patterns; red, red-orange, white most common
Suitable For	Families with children, seniors, apartments, multi-pet homes
Temperament	Easygoing, affectionate, playful, quiet

This natural breed avoids many health issues linked to selective breeding, offering robust vitality and low-maintenance appeal.

Tennessee Rex Cat History

The story of the

Tennessee Rex

begins in 2004 when Franklin Wittenburg in Tennessee rescued a semi-feral cat that birthed kittens with extraordinary curly fur. Two kittens, named Curly and Wavy, displayed soft, kinked coats unlike any known breed. Intrigued, Wittenburg consulted breeders, feline geneticists, and The International Cat Association (TICA).

Genetic analysis confirmed a novel recessive mutation producing the curly rex coat with a rare satin effect—hairs that reflect light for a metallic sparkle. Unlike other Rex breeds (e.g., Devon Rex from dominant genes), this was a fresh feral discovery.

Wittenburg launched a breeding program with partners to preserve the traits. TICA accepted the Tennessee Rex as a preliminary new breed in 2009, allowing show participation but no titles yet. As of 2023, it progresses toward Championship status, remaining rare with limited breeders.

The breed standard, revised May 1, 2018, emphasizes the head (30 points), body (25 points), coat (25 points), with allowances for kitten molting but disqualifying lack of satin sparkle.

Tennessee Rex Cat Size & Shape

**Tennessee Rex** cats possess medium-to-large, muscular, rectangular bodies with substantial boning and firm athleticism. Shorthairs measure 10-14 inches tall, weighing 8-15 pounds; longhairs appear slightly larger due to plush coats.

Key features per TICA standards:

• Head: Modified wedge, gently rounded with broad cheekbones, prominent whisker pads.
• Ears: Medium-large, cupped, set wide.
• Eyes: Large, almond-shaped, expressive.
• Legs & Paws: Proportionate, large rounded reed paws.
• Tail: Wide-based, tapering to reed or plumed tip.

Males are typically larger than females, but differences are subtle.

Tennessee Rex Cat Temperament & Intelligence

**Tennessee Rex** cats embody gentle, people-oriented charm. Quiet and mellow, they follow owners room-to-room, craving laps, couches, and beds. Playful without hyperactivity, they enjoy interactive toys but prefer cuddles over chaos.

Intelligence shines in their curiosity and adaptability. They litter train easily, tolerate solitude, and bond deeply, shadowing humans like loyal shadows.

Are Tennessee Rex Cats Good with Children?

Yes! Their

patient, mild temperament

suits families perfectly. Without strong prey drives, they gently tolerate kids’ play, making supervision minimal for harmonious homes.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

Laid-back natures foster compatibility. Most coexist peacefully with dogs and cats if introduced gradually. Low aggression and prey drive minimize conflicts.

Tennessee Rex Male vs. Female Personality Differences

Males average larger; behavioral variances mainly affect intact cats—unneutered males may mark or show aggression. Spaying/neutering equalizes personalities across genders.

Tennessee Rex Cat Health & Lifespan

With a

12-18 year lifespan

, Tennessee Rex benefit from natural origins, dodging hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or polycystic kidney disease common in bred Rexes.

Potential issues:

• Coat molting in kittens (temple areas, back feet).
• Fragile whiskers/coat edges.
• General feline concerns: dental disease, obesity.

Veterinary screening and balanced diets promote longevity. No breed-specific genetic tests beyond curl/satin confirmation exist yet.

Tennessee Rex Cat Grooming & Care

Color & Coat

The hallmark

curly satiny coat

sparkles metallically, intensifying colors. Curls tighten on neck/jowls, wave down body; whiskers kink. Shorthairs: medium-short, reed tail; longhairs: medium-long, plumed tail. All colors/patterns allowed; reds prominent.

Grooming Needs

Shorthairs need weekly brushing; longhairs bi-weekly to prevent mats. Satin texture resists tangling. Bathe rarely; nails monthly, ears/teeth routinely.

Exercise & Diet

Moderate activity: daily play, climbs suffice for apartments. Feed high-quality cat food portioned to prevent obesity (8-15 lb ideal).

Training

Eager learners respond to clickers for litter, tricks, harness walks. Positive reinforcement leverages affection.

Final Thoughts

**Tennessee Rex** cats enchant with sparkling curly coats and velcro-like devotion. Rare yet rewarding, their easygoing vibe suits all households. Seek ethical breeders or rescues; their natural purity promises healthy, loving companions without drama.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Tennessee Rex cat?

A rare natural breed with curly satiny fur from a 2004 Tennessee mutation, featuring affectionate, mellow personalities.

Are Tennessee Rex cats hypoallergenic?

No, but shorthairs shed minimally; not truly hypoallergenic like Sphynx.

How much does a Tennessee Rex cost?

Rarity drives prices: $1,500–$3,000+ from breeders; adoptions cheaper.

Do Tennessee Rex cats shed?

Light shedding; curls trap loose fur, eased by brushing.

Are Tennessee Rex good lap cats?

Absolutely—cuddly, quiet lap warmers who adore human contact.

Where to find Tennessee Rex kittens?

TICA-registered breeders; limited availability due to rarity.