HISTORY

The Devon Rex, a small to medium sized cat breed that originated in England in the 1960’s, is best known for their oversized ears, curly coat and elfin appearance.

The Devon Rex first appeared in 1959 as a curly-coated kitten born to a stray calico cat in Devon, England. The kitten was kept by is founder, Beryl Cox and named Kirlee. Cox had heard about the curly coated Cornish Rex and the work being conducted to preserve that curly coat gene, and offered Kirlee as a stud to contribute to that project. However, breeding trials revealed that the gene responsible for Kirlee’s unique coat was different from the Cornish Rex gene.

As a result, efforts began to preserve Kirlee’s distinct gene as the foundation of a new breed, the Devon Rex. The Devon Rex was eventually recognized as a unique breed by the Cat Fanciers associations in the 1970’s.

BREED POINTERS

Size:

The Devon Rex is a small to medium sized breed with fine sculptured body, it has prominent cheeks that are set high on the head, large batlike ears that are quite low set on the head.

Eyes:

Eyes are large, very expressive and wet wide apart.

Coat:

A wavy curly coat without guardhairs and hardly any bare patches. Even the whiskers and eyelashes can be wrinkly. Due to their short wavy coat and lack of guardhairs, they do need to be kept cool in Summer and warm in the Winter months. They are a relatively low maintenance breed but some grooming is essential to keep your Devon Rex in tip top condition. Bathing your Devon Rex so every now and then is essential, trimming their nails as well as cleaning of their ears with damp cotton wool is very helpful to help remove wax build up. To compensate for the lack of guard hairs, the Devon Rex has slightly higher surface body temperature than other breeds. They can also be vulnerable to sunburn if left in the sun too long due to the lack of guardhairs and their short coats.

They are quite often referred to as hypo allergenic cats because of their short unique coats and reduced shedding compared to many other breeds. But we must also forwarn that no cat breed is completely allergy free. Devon Rex cats are not truly hypoallergenic, however some individuals with mild cat allergies may report fewer symptoms around them then with other breeds. Cat allergies are caused by the Fel d 1 protein found in saliva, skin secretions and dander rather than the fur itself.

Their unique coat is their most distinguishing feature, their wavy curly short coat is soft and covers their body. Because their coat is so short and without guard hairs, they will require to be bathed more often than other short haired breeds.

Legs and Paws:

Has dainty oval paws on elegant slender legs with a tail length that is in proportion to the body.

Colours:

They come in a variety of colours, solid as well as bicolours to tortoise shell.

CHARACTERISTICS:

Often referred to as the “Pixies” of the cat world with their devilish sense of mischief.

Quirky, spontaneous, energetic, fun, loving, extremely loyal, companion, unique, intelligent are just a few ways to describe the Devon Rex.

Energetic and very spontaneous breed that is somewhat athletic in build, yet elegant and fine.

Devon Rex are people Orientated, always want to be in your space, seeking attention and affection.

The Devon Rex has a high energy personality, loves climbing, exploring and discovering and not afraid of anything. It is strongly advised that due to the Devon Rex’s outgoing personality and extraordinary appearance to keep indoors and out of harms way…. their appearance also makes them highly vulnerable to theft. A safe outdoor space such as a catio is highly recommended to keep them safe and at the same time providing an outdoor area.

Trainability:

The Devon Rex is easy to train, they are willing learners and will love the interaction with their human. Due to their agile and athletic build they do require stimulation in the form of cat trees, climbers other than ( your blinds or curtains ) LOL. They do love heights and will climb the highest bookcase or shelf in your home where they can observe the world and the next big mischievous deed they can come up with.

The Devon Rex is friendly cat, even with strangers. They are affectionate cats that will bond like glue with their family and not a PET TO LEAVE ALONE FOR HOURS ON END. They need to be stimulated and kept active, they are attention seekers. We need to emphasize this aspect of the breed as rehoming the Devon Rex if things don’t work out will be traumatic for them. They can suffer from separation anxiety if left for hours on end alone.

They can adjust to your family routine quite easily. They also do get along with other pets relatively easily but must be introduced properly and with care. They do make ideal family pets for children. Always entertaining!

HEALTH:

The Devon Rex is generally a healthy breed that can enjoy a long and active life with proper care.

Regular veterinary visits, a balanced diet, and preventative healthcare help reduce the risk of illness.

Although generally healthy, Devon Rex cats can be prone to certain inherited and breed specific conditions. Early detection and proper management are important for maintain ling term health.

Regular wellness examinations carried out by your vet, keeping vaccinations up to date, parasite prevention and proper nutrition contribute significantly to a healthy and active life for your Devon Rex.

Conclusion

The Devon Rex is the kind of pet that is an ideal choice for someone who wants an affectionate, attention seeking pet that will devote their entire lives to being your companion no questions asked! This makes this breed more of a commitment than many others. We suggest considering how much time you can devote before you invite one into your life. However they will make your life a complete joy filled with antics if you can give them the necessary love and attention.

Their loving nature. Moderate grooming needs, and reputation for being more allergy- friendly than some other breeds make them a favourite among the cat enthusiasts worldwide.