Devon Rex cat breed: facts, temperament and care

About the Devon Rex

The Devon Rex began in 1959, when a curly-coated male kitten was born in a litter in Devon, England. Beryl Cox adopted him, named him Kirlee and at first took him for a Cornish Rex. Test matings with the Cornish Rex produced straight-coated kittens, which showed that his curls came from a different gene. The breed was built from Kirlee and later outcrosses. The CFA advanced it to championship status in 1983, and it is now among the most popular shorthaired breeds there.

The head is the signature feature: a short wedge with high cheekbones, a pronounced muzzle break, large wide-set eyes and enormous low-set ears, which gives a pixie look. The body is slim with long legs. The coat is short and waved, thin on the belly, and unlike the Cornish Rex it keeps some curled guard hairs. Any colour is accepted.

Temperament and living with one

The Devon Rex is often described as a monkey in a cat suit. It climbs, perches on shoulders, sits on laptops and follows people from room to room. It wants contact and does not like being left. Most are bold and happy with visitors, with other cats and with dogs.

They are quick to learn and enjoy fetch, tricks and puzzle feeders. Their voices are soft, and they purr readily. A lonely Devon can become destructive, so many owners keep two cats, or make sure someone is home.

Care: coat, food and play

Grooming is simple. Skip the brush, because the coat is fragile and can develop bare patches. Wipe or bathe occasionally if the skin feels oily, and ask your vet which cat shampoo is suitable. Clean the large ears when they look dirty, and ask your vet for a safe method.

Keep the home warm, since a thin coat gives little protection from cold and draughts. Feed a complete diet in measured meals, because these cats are active but enjoy food. Tall trees and daily interactive play are a better route to a happy Devon than any toy left in a basket.

Health

Devon Rex cats can inherit a muscle condition called hereditary myopathy, linked to a gene change, and a DNA test is available; ask a breeder for results. They can also be prone to itchy skin disease, and some develop slipping kneecaps. Blood type B is common in the breed, which matters for breeding and for transfusions, so your vet may want to know. Responsible breeders screen their breeding cats. Ask your vet about what checks suit an individual cat.

Is it right for you?

Choose a Devon Rex if you want an affectionate, funny companion and can give it company and warmth. Look elsewhere if you are away all day or want an independent cat. The Cornish Rex is similar but more athletic, and the Sphynx shares the need for warmth with an even more contact-seeking nature.