Devon Rex

Weight: 7 - 12 pounds
Life span: 15 - 20 years
CFA rank: 15

Breed History | Background:

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.

Cat Look:

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.

Behavioral 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.

Grooming:

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:

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.

Medical conditions seen:

Fun Facts:

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.

Glossary