Bohemian Rex

Bohemian Rex, also known as the Czech Curly Cat, is considered a relatively new breed. It has been recognized by only one association, and even then as an experimental one. Essentially, the Bohemian Rex is the same Persian cat, only with curly hair.

History of origin

The breed originated in Czechoslovakia in the 1980s. It all began when kittens with wavy fur began appearing in litters of ordinary Persian cats. Breeders became interested in these unique cats and decided to establish them as a separate breed.

Some felinologists suggest that the gene responsible for curly coats was inherited by Persians from German Rex cats in the 1950s and 1960s. Others believe that breeders in Czechoslovakia deliberately crossed Persians with Rex cats to create a new breed. The Bohemian Rex breed is registered as experimental by the FIFE organization. Other associations and feline federations are reluctant to recognize the breed.

Appearance

Bohemian Rexes are almost identical to Persian cats in their build. They differ from their closest relatives only in their coat type. Their appearance is also very similar to that of the American breed. Silkirk Rex.

The head is massive and rounded, with a wide, convex skull. Its size is proportional to the body. The muzzle has wide cheekbones and well-filled cheeks. The nose is short, with a sharp transition to the forehead. The length of the bridge of the nose is approximately equal to or shorter than its width. The nose is wide and convex, with open nasal passages. The chin, nose, and forehead should form a vertical line. The eyes are large, open, and round, colored to match the coat color. The ears are small, set low and wide. The body is massive and wide, with a short back and a rounded chest. The belly is firm and rounded. The tail is short, straight, and thick. The muscles are well developed. Overall, these cats have a compact appearance.

The coat is long, soft, and wavy, with only the muzzle and ears remaining free of curl. The undercoat is well developed. The same colors are permitted as in German Rex, the most common colors are bicolor, tortoiseshell, cream and blue.

Character

Bohemian Rex cats have a calm, even temperament. They are highly intelligent and reserved animals. They are docile, affectionate, and friendly with all family members. They are quite sociable and outgoing. They are generally reserved with strangers. They are generally quiet and rarely meow. Adult Bohemian Rex cats are difficult to engage in play; they prefer a calm and measured lifestyle.

Maintenance and care

Bohemian Rexes, like Persians, value the comfort of home and don't tolerate change well. Therefore, they dislike moving, noisy company, and constant stress. They are ideal for apartment or house living, but even with free access to the outdoors, they won't stray far.

Care

Grooming a Bohemian Rex is challenging. Their long, wavy coat tangles easily. It seems like tangles form faster than you can brush them out. It's best to brush a Bohemian Rex at least twice a day, using a soft brush and gently combing each area. Bathe as needed, usually 3-4 times a year. After shampooing, it's recommended to use a conditioner to make brushing easier. Cats also need daily eye cleaning and dry tear ducts. Ears should be cleaned once a week, and nails should be trimmed 1-2 times a month.

Bohemian Rex cats can be fed both natural foods and commercially prepared foods. Each owner chooses the option that suits them best. It's important to note that these cats aren't very active, so their diet shouldn't contain a lot of fat or carbohydrates.

Health

The breed is very rare and few in number. Furthermore, research into its development has not yet been completed, so there is no official data on genetic or hereditary diseases. There is evidence that breeders most often encounter pathologies that Bohemians inherited from Persian cats. A predisposition to upper respiratory diseases, as in other short-muzzled breeds, is related to their unique structure. Other conditions also occur. hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, ophthalmological diseases.

Where to buy a kitten. Price

Despite its distinctive appearance, the Bohemian Rex hasn't gained widespread popularity. The breed is extremely rare even in its native land. This is due to the difficult grooming process and the tousled appearance of its curly coat, which, even after proper grooming, appears disheveled. Finding a kitten of this breed in the CIS is unlikely, and it will cost at least 30,000 rubles. Most of the population is concentrated in the breed's native Czech Republic and Slovakia. Price ranges vary widely. On average, kittens cost $300, excluding transportation to their new home.

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• The Top 15 Most Popular Cat Breeds in the World
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• Curly cat breeds