Devon Rex at a Glance
Known for their oversized ears, short curly coat, and mischievous personality.
Devon Rex Profile
Devon Rex vs Cornish Rex vs Sphynx
| Trait | Devon Rex | Cornish Rex | Sphynx |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coat | Short, wavy | Short, uniform waves | Hairless |
| Shedding | Very low | Very low | None |
| Grooming | Wipe down weekly | Minimal | Weekly bath |
| Temperament | Mischievous, dog-like | Playful, people-oriented | Affectionate, needy |
| Cold Tolerance | Low | Low | Very low |
Daily Care Routine
Do's and Don'ts
| Keep indoor temperature 68–75°F | |
| Provide heated cat beds in cooler months | |
| Offer interactive toys and climbing structures | |
| Schedule annual vet checkups | |
| Wipe coat down weekly with a soft cloth | |
| Leave them outside — they have no coat for protection | |
| Over-bathe — their skin produces more oils without fur | |
| Ignore signs of skin irritation or dryness | |
| Assume they don't need grooming — oil buildup needs wiping |
💡 Devon Rex cats are often described as 'dog-like' because of their loyalty, trainability, and tendency to follow owners everywhere. They thrive on human attention.
⚠️ Without enough attention, Devon Rex cats can develop destructive behaviors. They are not a good choice for people who are away from home most of the day.
Devon Rex: The Elf Cat With Oversized Ears and Endless Personality
The Devon Rex emerged in Devon, England in 1960 when a curly-coated kitten named Kirlee was found near a tin mine. He became the founding cat of a breed that was like nothing seen before: enormous ears, high cheekbones, enormous eyes, and a short wavy coat — combined with a personality that dog lovers often describe as more canine than feline.
| Trait | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | 5–9 lbs |
| Lifespan | 9–15 years |
| Coat | Short, soft, wavy/curly; all colors |
| Shedding | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
| Temperament | Playful, mischievous, affectionate, dog-like |
| Vocality | Moderate |
Personality
Devon Rex cats are intensely social. They follow their people from room to room, perch on shoulders, sleep under the covers, and insert themselves into every activity. They are mischievous, clever, and capable of learning tricks. The "dog-like" description comes from their tendency to fetch, come when called, and prefer being with people over being alone.
Health Considerations
Devon Rex Myopathy (hereditary myopathy) is the most breed-specific health condition — a muscle weakness disorder that appears in some bloodlines. Responsible breeders test for this. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and patellar luxation occur at moderate rates. Annual cardiac screening from age 2 is recommended for breeding cats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Devon Rex cats hypoallergenic?
Not truly hypoallergenic, but often better tolerated by allergy sufferers. The Devon Rex's short, fine curly coat sheds less than most cats, reducing airborne allergen distribution. However, cat allergies are primarily triggered by the Fel d 1 protein in saliva and skin secretions, not hair — and Devon Rex cats produce Fel d 1 like any other cat.
Do Devon Rex cats need special grooming?
Less than you'd think, but specific care is needed. Their delicate curly coat should not be brushed (this breaks the waves and damages the coat). Instead, use a soft rubber grooming glove. Ear cleaning is important — their large ears accumulate wax more than most cats. Occasional baths are recommended as their skin produces more oil than many breeds.
Are Devon Rex cats good with other pets?
Yes. Devon Rex cats are highly social and typically get along well with other cats and friendly dogs. They seek company actively and do not do well when left alone for long periods.