Devon Rex History
  • The breed originated in 1960 in Devon, England as the suspected result of a spontaneous mutation. A curly-coated, brownish-black kitten named Kirlee was born in a litter of straight-haired kittens by a stray calico.
  • The Devon Rex arrived a decade after its more popular cousin, the Cornish Rex.
  • The first Devon Rexes arrived in the United States in 1968.
  • Accepted by every major cat breed registry, including the Cat Fanciers Association and The International Cat Association.
Devon Rex Behavior Concerns
  • Fondness for surveying the scene from high perches like shoulders and the tops of doors.
  • More apt to give you a body hug than sit calmly in your lap.
  • Keep tabs on this cat because it tends to slip in tight, narrow places like behind your sofa or refrigerator.
  • Capable of emitting extremely loud purrs when content.
  • Highly trainable and needs - and wants - to perform tasks and basic commands.
  • Without suitable outlets for their high energies, they may resort to swinging like monkeys on drapes and blinds.
  • Love to be loved and hate to be bored.
Look of Devon Rexs
  • This breed is all about the ears. Its gigantic, bat-like ears set low on the sides of its pixie-looking face.
  • Its head is wedge-shaped, unlike the Cornish Rex who has an egg-shaped head.
  • Its coat comes in every feline color or pattern and ranges from thin, suede-like feel to full and wavy coat.
  • Its small to medium-framed body is deceptively muscular and strong. Its hind legs are slightly longer than the front legs.
  • The face is dominated by giant oval eyes and prominent cheekbones and whisker pads.
  • Despite claims, this breed is not hypo-allergenic. However, its coat sheds less than most cats.
Grooming Devon Rex Cats
  • Regarded as a "wash-and-wear" breed that requires minimal grooming care because its thin, fine hair is not at risk for developing mats.
  • Stroke the coat with chamois leather or your hands to spread the natural oils in the coat
  • Periodically clean the ears to prevent wax buildup.
  • Wipe down using a cat-safe baby wipe or a warm, damp washcloth.
Suggested Nutritional Needs for Devon Rex
  • Serve high-quality food high in antioxidants and protein. Avoid diets containing corn, wheat, dairy or by products.
  • Brush the teeth or provide special dental chew treats to control plaque.
  • Be aware the Devon likes to sneak food and has an appetite that seems to exceed its stature.
Fun Facts of Devon Rexs
  • Sports two very different nicknames: "Dennis the Menace" due to its got-to-play-now nature and the "Poodle who purrs" due to its dog-like friendliness and high intelligence.
  • By eight weeks of age, the coats usually molt or thin out.
  • Noted for wagging their tails and chortling when praised or in happy moods.

Devon Rex

Devon Rex cat breed picture
Lifespan
15 - 20 years
Height
Weight
7 - 12 pounds
Devon Rex Traits
  • Lap Cat
    3 out of 5
  • Intelligence
    5 out of 5
  • Ease Of Training
    5 out of 5
  • Grooming Requirements
    1 out of 5
  • Shedding
    1 out of 5
  • Good With Children
    4 out of 5
  • Good With Dogs
    5 out of 5
  • Chattiness
    5 out of 5