Table of Contents
Introduction
Devon Rex cats constitute one of the most unusual and appealing cat breeds in the whole world. The cats have oversized ears, an elfin face, short, curly coat and are playful, to the extent that they are sometimes considered to look like pixies (or even aliens). However, do not be deceived by their uncannily odd appearance Devon Rex cats are warm, intelligent and very faithful pets.

The present article gives an in-depth overview of the Devon Rex breed, its creation, character traits, care needs, health aspects, and the possibility of the curious cat fitting in your household.
The Origin and History of the Devon Rex
The Devon Rex origin can be traced back to Devon county in England in 1960. A lady called Beryl Cox found a curly haired kitten in a batch of feral cats close to an old tin mine. This kitten, afterwards named Kirlee, had the characteristic wavy coat and large ears which has become typical of the breed.
Initially, Devon Rex breeders believed the Devon Rex to be related to the Cornish Rex, a curly-coated breed of nearby Cornwall. But a closer look into the breeding of both revealed that it was obvious that the Devon Rex had had a distinct genetic mutation that affected its curliness of hair.
It was after this that breeders set off to fortify the gene pool of the Devon Rex though retaining its DNA-specific coat and personalities. The Devon Rex has become a well-known breed (at least to the biggest cat registries around the world) and is enjoyed today because of its appearance and its charming personality.
What Does a Devon Rex Look Like?
Unique Coat
The most prominent thing about Devon Rex is that its hair is short, soft and curly, and/or wavy. This coat is extremely fine and does not have the usual top of guard hair, such as it is possessed by most cats. Due to this, Devon Rex fur does not feel like an ordinary cat fur, but rather, it is suede or velvet.
Devon Rexes are named after their sensitive coat, so due to it, some cats may have patches of bare skin, or some areas can be thinner than the other ones. They have ticks not an illness, which they are entitled to.
Distinctive Facial Features
Devon Rex cats have been known enthusiastically as either of these two names: “elf cats” or “alien cats.” Both terms describe their:
- Oversized ears set low and wide apart
- Large, expressive eyes
- Short, upturned nose
- High cheekbones and strong whisker pads
Their figure is long and slender with long neck, legs and a long tail. This makes the Devon Rex look rather playful, verging on mischievous which is a perfect description of this cat.
Personality and Temperament

Devon Rex is not your cat when you want a relaxed, detached cat. But in case you are seeking an interactive, active, and curious cat who will never fail to actively monitor your activities and engaging you in some awfully surprising manners; the Devon Rex may well be the cat you are looking toward.
Playful and Energetic
Devon Rex cats are fast movers and are playful. They will run after toys, jump into high places, and sniff around every corner of their lives. A good number of Devon Rex can be taught to fetch or play games you would not expect a dog to do.
Highly Affectionate
Such cats are in love with humans. They tend to accompany their owners throughout a house, they curl themselves on their shoulders, or slip inside the bedcovers. Their affection to warmth is also known and they will usually find sunny places or warm up in your lap.
Intelligent and Curious
Devon Rexes are quite intelligent and can be well-trained at tricks or leash walking. Their intelligence also implies that without being challenged mentally, they can also get bored; thus, toys and interactions are important.
Social
The breed is generally good towards other pets and children. Their personalities also fit in busy families where we will not leave them alone most of the time.
Caring for a Devon Rex
Devon Rex cats are not very high-maintenance, though, as it happens to other breeds, they also need some kind of care to remain healthy and happy.
Grooming Needs
- Brushing: Devon Rex cats do not shed and their fur is fragile hence there is no need to brush them but it may harm the fur. It only needs a light hand rub or a wiping with a moist cloth once a week.
- Bathing: Devon Rexes may require frequent bathing as compared to most cats. They do not have guard hairs, which means that their oil-containing skin is not absorbed as it is done with other breeds. Their coat and skin are well taken care of by using bathing once in a few weeks.
- Ears: They have large ears, where a lot of wax and dirt will collect. They ought to be wiped using a vet approved solution and a cotton ball.
- Nail Trimming: It should be trimmed regularly, every 23 weeks.
Diet and Nutrition
The Devon Rex cats are those with high metabolisms and great appetites. They should be fed on a high-protein, balanced diet and their weight monitored. The cat is more likely to become obese because of overfeeding in an indoor cat who is unlikely to exercise sufficiently.
Discuss with your vet to make sure you are feeding your cat its nutritional requirements, especially where you suspect food sensitivities.
Environment
They are just inquisitive types of cats that require their minds to be challenged. With:
- Climbing trees and perches
- Puzzle feeders
- Interactive playtime with their humans
- Safe access to windows for bird-watching
They are, too, more susceptible to cold, on account of their fine coats. Make your house warm and give warm blankets or safe heated pads to your pets.
Check Out: Cornish Rex – Breed#11.
Health Considerations
Devon Rex is a healthy cat but, as well as all pure breed animals, it possesses certain genetic health concerns to monitor.
Common Health Issues
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is a disease of the heart that can be caused on a cat any breed of cat. This will be screened by reputable breeders.
- Hereditary Myopathy: A disease of the muscles that affects movements, and it may be severe in kittens. The cats involved might exhibit weakness.
- Skin Conditions: Since these Devon Rex cats have sensitive coats and produce lots of oil, some of them can develop rashes or blackheads in the chin and tail.
- Dental Disease: Their thin jaws cause them to possibly accumulate tartar and gum infection. They will have to brush and take care of their teeth regularly.
Lifespan
A Devon Rex has a life expectancy of 13 to 16 years or longer, provided it is taken care of and given frequent vet visits. Screening tests of the heart, healthy low-stress living in a clean environment, and a nice warm place to live will take you a long many miles in terms of longevity.
Devon Rex vs. Cornish Rex
People often mistake the Devon Rex and the Cornish Rex not knowing that although they both have curly coat and they are both playful, there is really a lot different about the two.
- Coat Texture: Devon Rex coats are not so regular and are wavy and less dense.
- Body Type: The Cornish Rex is leaner and long-bodied compared to the Devon.
- Head Shape: The Devon Rex possesses a shorter, rounder-shaped face and is more pronounced chin.
- Ears: Both babies have big ears with a slight difference that the ears of the Devon are lower and are prominent.
The two breeds are also loving and smart and in most cases, one just depends on taste in appearance and a few behavioral variations.
Is the Devon Rex Right for You?

You may consider a Devon Rex, in case you:
- Want a highly social, affectionate pet
- Enjoy interactive play and bonding time
- Prefer a low-shedding cat (but don’t mind occasional baths)
- Have a warm and safe home environment
- Are you home often, or can you provide plenty of companionship?
It may not be a perfect fit when you:
- Prefer independent or quiet cats
- Don’t have time for play and social interaction
- Want a cat that requires no grooming or special care
- Live in a cold climate and don’t want to heat your space for a cat
Finding a Devon Rex
Once you have decided that you can have a Devon Rex and introduce it to your life, you need to look through the responsible breeders or rescue organizations. A decent breeder will:
- Provide health guarantees
- Offer proof of genetic testing
- Welcome questions and be transparent about their breeding practices
Devon rex cats are also possible to find with breed-specific rescues or with rehoming organizations.
Conclusion
Devon Rex is not a breed of cats but a breed with no resemblance in character and appearance. Their special look is complemented by a playful nature, a strong attachment towards their humans, and a brilliant mind. These cats fit best in a family setup, singles, or anyone who would want to have a pet that is like a part of the family.
There are some special needs in their care, though, such as being bathed more frequently and focused upon keeping warm, but the added smiles, destiny and fun by far dilute the added workload. And, in case you need cats that are alive, peculiar, and constantly loving, the Devon Rex can be your perfect match.
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FAQs
1. Are there Devon Rex shedding cats?
The coat of the Devon Rex cat is fine and sparse which makes it shed minimally as opposed to most other breeds. They do however, still, drop a bit of them and their skin oils can accumulate without cleaning.
2. Are the Devon Rex cats in the list of hypoallergenic cats?
The least allergenic cat is not hypoallergenic, but Devon Rex cats have been observed to be less allergic, yet do not exhibit such symptoms as most other cats. This is basically because they have little shedding and minimal fur.
3. Cohabiting with other pets. Are Devon Rex cats crossbreeds?
Yup, Devon Rex cats are highly social and are even likely to be well along with other cats, dogs, and even small children. They are easy to fit into busy households, since they are playful and outgoing.