With their large ears, wavy coat, and enormous eyes, Devon Rex cats look like mischievous pixies. They are perpetually active, love heat, and want to be involved in everything their owner does.
- Origin
- Buckfastleigh, Devon, England
- Category
- shorthair
- Lifespan
- 9–15 yrs
- Size
- Small-Medium
- Weight
- 2.7–4.5 kg
- Coat
- Short, fine, loosely curled waves
- Colours
- All colours and patterns
😺 Temperament
🏡 Best suited to
📊 Personality ratings
📜 History & origin
The Devon Rex originated in 1960 when a curly-coated kitten was found in Buckfastleigh, Devon, England. Beryl Cox adopted him, naming him 'Kirlee'. Breeding experiments showed the Devon Rex mutation was distinct from the Cornish Rex, requiring a separate breed. The mutation affects all three coat layers, giving them their distinctive loose wave.
🧼 Care & grooming
Their delicate, wavy coat can be damaged by excessive grooming — a gentle once-over with a soft cloth weekly is often enough. They feel warm to the touch (higher metabolism) and seek warm spots constantly. They love shoulder-perching and will follow their owners everywhere. Diet monitoring is needed as they love food and can overeat.
🩺 Health notes
Congenital Myopathy (Devon Rex Myopathy) is a neuromuscular disorder specific to the breed causing muscle weakness. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Patellar Luxation can also occur. DNA testing is available for myopathy. Their large ears are prone to dirt buildup and should be cleaned regularly.
