The Devon Rex at a Glance
Personality: Mischievous, affectionate, and high-energy. Often called a “monkey in a cat suit.”
Coat: Short, soft, and curly (rexed) with fragile whiskers.
Size: Small to Medium. 6–9 lbs.
Lifespan: 9–15 years.
Best For: Families who want an interactive, “Velcro” companion and don’t mind a little chaos.
If you have ever wanted a pet that looks like a visitor from another planet but acts like a devoted dog, look no further than the Devon Rex. With their oversized ears, high cheekbones, and large, soulful eyes, they are often described as the “pixies” or “aliens” of the cat world.
But don’t let the unique look fool you—these cats are 100% love and entertainment. In this Devon Rex Cat Breed Guide, we will explore the history, care requirements, and hilarious personality traits of this one-of-a-kind feline.
What is a Devon Rex?
The Devon Rex is a relatively new breed, discovered in Devonshire, England, in 1960. A woman named Beryl Cox found a feral kitten with a strange, curly coat living near an abandoned tin mine. She named him Kirlee, and he became the founding father of the breed.
While they share a similar curly coat with the Cornish Rex, the Devon Rex is genetically distinct. They are known for their:
Head Shape: A modified wedge shape with a “stop” at the nose bridge.
Ears: Enormous and set low on the head (often described as bat-like).
Coat: A soft, rippled coat caused by a genetic mutation affecting hair texture.
Personality: A Monkey in a Cat Suit
If you want a cat that sleeps on the windowsill all day, the Devon Rex is not for you. These cats are legendary for their high energy and clownish behavior.
The “Velcro” Cat: They have a desperate need to be with their humans. Expect them to perch on your shoulder while you walk, sit in your lap while you work, and sleep under the covers with you at night.
Playful & Mischievous: They are highly intelligent and easily bored. They can learn tricks, play fetch, and open cabinets.
Food Motivated: Devon Rexes are notorious “food hounds.” They will try to steal food off your plate, out of the trash, or even from your mouth if you aren’t careful!
Dog-Like Loyalty: They tend to greet owners at the door and wag their tails when happy.
The Unique Coat: Care and Feel
Touching a Devon Rex is a unique experience. Their coat feels like crushed velvet, suede, or the fuzz on a peach. It is incredibly soft because it lacks the coarse guard hairs found on most cats.
Grooming Needs
Despite their short hair, they have specific grooming requirements.
Gentle Brushing: Their hair is fragile. Do not use harsh metal brushes. A soft cloth or your hand is often enough to groom them. Over-grooming can cause bald patches.
Grease Build-up: Because they have less hair to absorb natural skin oils, Devon Rexes can get greasy. They may require occasional baths with a gentle cat shampoo.
Ear Cleaning: This is crucial. Devon Rexes tend to produce dark, waxy buildup in their large ears. You should clean them weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner to prevent infection.
Temperature Sensitivity
Because their coat provides very little insulation, Devon Rexes are heat-seekers.
Sweater Weather: They get cold easily. This is one of the few breeds that generally appreciates a warm sweater in the winter.
Sunbathing: You will often find them on top of heat vents, computer towers, or under warm blankets.
Health and Wellness
The Devon Rex is generally a healthy breed, but potential owners should be aware of hereditary conditions.
Common Health Issues
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): The most common heart disease in cats. Responsible breeders scan for this.
Patellar Luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates.
Devon Rex Myopathy: A rare hereditary condition known as spasticity, which causes muscle weakness. Thankfully, this is now rare due to genetic testing.
Dietary Needs
Remember their love for food? A Devon Rex will eat until it bursts if allowed.
Portion Control: Use puzzle feeders to slow them down and prevent obesity.
High Quality: Feed a high-protein diet available at Hollywood Feed to support their high energy levels.
Recap: Is a Devon Rex Right for You?
To summarize the Devon Rex Cat Breed, is a fantastic choice if you want:
A deeply affectionate, clingy companion.
A cat that interacts with the whole family.
A low-shedding pet (though not strictly hypoallergenic).
A cat with a unique, artistic appearance.
You might want to reconsider if you are away from home for long hours or want a cat that respects your personal space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Devon Rex cats hypoallergenic? Technically, no cat is 100% hypoallergenic. However, the Devon Rex is often a good choice for allergy sufferers because they shed very little and spread less dander into the air than thick-coated breeds. Always test your allergies with the specific cat before adopting.
Do Devon Rex cats get along with dogs? Yes! Their playful, confident nature makes them excellent companions for cat-friendly dogs. They will often cuddle with dogs for warmth.
Why are Devon Rex whiskers curly? The same gene that curls their fur also affects their whiskers. Their whiskers are often short, brittle, and crinkled. This is normal and causes them no harm.
How often should I bathe a Devon Rex? It depends on the individual cat’s oil production. Some need a bath every few weeks to prevent their skin from feeling sticky or leaving grease spots on furniture, while others rarely need one.
Ready to bring a “pixie” into your life? Stop by Hollywood Feed to pick up a cozy sweater to keep your Devon Rex warm and browse our selection of interactive toys to keep their busy brains entertained!
