Pet Wiki

Tennessee Rex

Felis catus

Also called T-Rex

The Tennessee Rex is gentle, loving and very affectionate.

SizeMedium
Weight6.8 kg (15 lb)12
Height24 cm (9 in)1
Lifespan12 to 18 years12
CoatCurly, satin coat; both longhair and shorthair varieties
OriginUnited States (Tennessee)32
breedShort profile
Curly satin coat
Gentle and affectionate
Playful and curious
Low grooming needs
32

Personality what they are like

The Tennessee Rex is gentle, loving and very affectionate. They are social cats that enjoy being with their human family and like to follow them around. They are curious, playful and snuggly, and they do well with children and other pets if socialised early. They are generally quiet and can cope with being left alone for short periods.32

Coat and looks how to spot one

Curly, satin coat; both longhair and shorthair varieties

The Tennessee Rex has a unique curly coat with a satin sheen that sparkles in sunlight. The curls are most prominent on the neck, shoulders, chest, legs and tail. The coat is soft and may appear to 'molt' in kittens, especially around the temples and back of ears. Whiskers may be wavy or curly and are often fragile.34

ColoursAll patterns and colours accepted4

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Tennessee Rex. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Nail trimevery 3 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • Litter scoopevery day
  • Litter changeevery week
  • PlayDaily playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate exercise needs. They enjoy play sessions and interactive toys. Aim for at least 40 minutes of playtime daily, broken into shorter 10-minute sessions. They are not overly active but need mental and physical stimulation.5

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal grooming needed. Brushing is not recommended for shorthairs as it can break the delicate curly fur. Weekly brushing is enough for shorthairs; longhairs may need up to three times a week to prevent mats. Regular ear cleaning, nail trims and tooth brushing are also important.12

Home where they are happiest

Indoor living is recommended to keep them safe. They are not known to be illegal or venomous. Provide scratching posts, climbing areas and interactive toys. They enjoy being with their family and should not be left alone for long periods.2

Food basics what goes in the bowl

High-quality commercial cat food, preferably with a named protein as the first ingredient. As obligate carnivores, they need meat-based protein. Omega fatty acids can help maintain coat health. No special dietary needs unless health issues arise.15

Company who they like around

They are social and bond firmly with their humans. They enjoy being part of the family and like to follow their owners around. They can tolerate being alone for short periods but prefer company. Early socialisation with people, children and other pets is important.12

The story where it all began

The Tennessee Rex is a naturally occurring mutation that first appeared in 2004 in the Tennessee Valley, USA. A man named Franklin Whittenburg discovered a semi-feral mother cat and her kittens on his property in Chattanooga. Two of the kittens had curly coats with a satin sheen. Genetic testing revealed a new recessive gene that causes both the curly coat and the satin effect. Breeders then worked with TICA to develop and preserve this unique breed.32

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Tennessee Rex is named after the state of Tennessee in the USA, where the breed spontaneously appeared in 2004.4

Name ideas for your new friend

RexDollyNashMemphisWillowCashJuniperSmokyHattieBooneScoutPiper

A day in the life told by a Tennessee Rex

I start my day by finding the warmest spot on the couch, my curly fur catching the morning light. My human brings me a toy mouse, and we have a quick chase around the living room. Then I follow them to the kitchen, weaving between their legs as they make coffee. Later, I perch on the windowsill, watching birds with quiet curiosity. When the kids come home, I greet them with soft headbutts and curl up for a nap in their lap. In the evening, we have a gentle play session with a laser dot, and I end the day snuggled close, purring my thanks.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

TICA
Recognized breed6

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Cat-Friendly Pancakes

A simple, no-bake treat that is high in protein and low in fat, making it a suitable occasional reward for cats who gain weight easily.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water, no salt added
  • 1/2 cup finely diced cooked chicken
  • 1/2 cup pure sweet potato puree (no added sweeteners)

How

  1. Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
  2. Break the tuna into small bits with a fork.
  3. Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
  4. Slowly stir in the sweet potato puree until the mixture binds together, being careful not to make it too watery.
  5. Shape the mixture into mini pancakes.
  6. Serve to your cat as an occasional treat.

How much: Give small amounts occasionally, as treats should not exceed 10-15% of daily calorie allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Tuna Biscuits for Cats

These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
  • Extra water as needed

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
  4. Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  6. Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
  8. Allow to cool completely before storing.

How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

Tuna Catnip Biscuits

A vet-approved recipe from PDSA that uses simple ingredients to create a tasty, crunchy treat your cat will love.

You need

  • 145g tuna chunks in spring water
  • 120g plain flour
  • 1 tablespoon dried catnip
  • 1 egg

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
  2. Drain the tuna and mix it with the flour, catnip and egg in a bowl until a dough forms.
  3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  4. Use a small cookie cutter to cut out biscuit shapes.
  5. Place the biscuits on a greased baking tray and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool completely before serving.

How much: One biscuit equals 10% of your cat's recommended daily calories. Reduce their main meal by 10% on treat days.

Recipe from PDSA

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Tennessee Rex, and at what times?

Feed your Tennessee Rex high-quality commercial cat food with a named protein first. Follow the food label for amounts and ask your vet for a schedule; most adult cats do well with two meals a day.15

What should a Tennessee Rex eat, and which foods are dangerous?

They need meat-based protein as obligate carnivores. Avoid alcohol, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, and raw meat or eggs. Always check with your vet for any changes.157

Does a Tennessee Rex need baths?

Baths are rarely needed; only when very dirty or sticky. Their curly coat is delicate, so gentle handling is key. Ask your vet or a professional groomer for advice if needed.8

How often does a Tennessee Rex need brushing?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests brushing once a week for shorthairs. For longhairs, up to three times a week helps prevent mats. Be gentle to avoid breaking their delicate curly fur.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Tennessee Rex's claws, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks as per Pet Wiki's plan. Start with one or two claws per session. Use a cat nail trimmer and avoid the quick. Ask your vet or a groomer to show you if unsure.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much play does a Tennessee Rex need?

They need about 40 minutes of play daily, broken into short 10-minute sessions. Use interactive toys to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. They enjoy playing with their family.5

How do I look after a Tennessee Rex's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth daily if possible, as Pet Wiki suggests every two days at least. Clean ears regularly with a vet-recommended solution. Ask your vet for the best routine for your cat.12 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Tennessee Rex live?

They typically live between 12 and 18 years. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a loving home, they can enjoy a long, happy life.12

Is a Tennessee Rex good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are gentle, loving, and social. With early socialisation, they do well with children and other pets. They enjoy being part of the family and are generally quiet.32

Can a Tennessee Rex be left alone?

They can cope with short periods alone but prefer company. They are social cats that bond firmly with their humans. For longer absences, consider a pet sitter or interactive toys.12

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. articles.hepper.com: tennessee rex cat articles.hepper.comused for weight kg, height cm, lifespan years, grooming or care, diet basics, social needs
  2. wisdompanel.com: tennessee rex wisdompanel.comused for origin, weight kg, lifespan years, best traits, temperament, grooming or care, habitat needs, social needs, history, fun fact
  3. tica.org: trstd trs18 tica.orgused for origin, coat or body, best traits, temperament, history, fun fact
  4. tica.org: Tennessee Rex 4 columns landscape May 2023 tica.orgused for coat or body, colours
  5. catster.com: tennessee rex cat catster.comused for activity needs, diet basics
  6. tica.org: tennessee rex tica.org
  7. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-11-04. Text is written in our own words from these sources.