Devon Rex: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care

The Devon rex—a small, short-haired cat breed that originated in England in the 1960s—is best known for their oversized ears, curly coat, and elfin appearance. This highly distinctive breed first appeared in the late 1950s due to a spontaneous genetic mutation. 

Often described as pixie-like in both appearance and personality, Devon rex cats are often playful, people-oriented, and happy-go-lucky. Thanks to their unique appearance and charming personalities, the Devon rex has developed a devoted fan base among cat enthusiasts who appreciate a quirky, interactive companion.

Learn more about the Devon rex, including the breed’s temperament, care needs, and history.

Devon Rex Cat Characteristics

The Devon rex cat breed is often jokingly referred to as a mix of cat, dog, and monkey due to their lively, curious, and highly social nature.

"A typical Devon rex personality is very people-oriented—they usually always want to be in your space, seeking out their person's attention and affection," says Shannon Ketter, a Devon rex breeder and owner of Pixie Stixs Cattery.

"They’re the type of cats that will come to the door to greet you, follow you around the house, meow back to you when you ask them a question, sleep curled up with you, and ride on your shoulder like a parrot," adds Ashley Kemper, a sphynx and Devon rex breeder and owner of California Sphynx.

While they are usually hyper as kittens and young adults, Ketter says they tend to mellow into “cuddle bugs” as they age.

History of the Devon Rex Cat

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 his finder—a woman named Beryl Cox—and named Kirlee. Cox had heard about the curly-coated Cornish rex and the work being conducted to preserve that 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 cat fancier associations in the 1970s. 

Devon Rex Cat Care

Caring for a Devon rex is pretty straightforward, but the breed does have some specific needs when it comes to activity, attention, and grooming. Here’s what you need to know about caring for a Devon rex.

Exercise

The Devon rex has a high-energy personality and thrives in a home that has opportunities for climbing, leaping, and exploration. However, it’s best to keep this breed indoors. With their rare, eye-catching appearance, the Devon rex can be a target for theft. And like all cats, they face outdoor risks such as traffic, predators, and disease. If your Devon rex craves outdoor time, consider installing a secure catio, parading them around in a cat stroller, or leash training with a harness.

Safe Solutions for Indoor Cats That Want to Go Outside

To help channel this breed’s energy indoors, offer plenty of enrichment. Cat trees, puzzle feeders, wand toys, and interactive games like fetch can provide mental and physical exercise. The Devon rex also responds well to training and often enjoys learning tricks.

Grooming

Devon rex cats have fine, curly fur that lacks guard hairs (the longer, protective top layer of a cat’s coat), which can cause their skin to become greasy more easily. Because of this, they may need occasional baths to help control oil buildup and keep their skin healthy.

"Some Devon Rex build up earwax more than normal-furred felines," Kemper says. If you notice wax buildup, Kemper suggests doing a quick ear cleaning.

Devon Rex cats shed, but not as much as many other cat breeds. Plus, their fur is more like cottony fuzz than traditional cat hairs, Kemper says. A gentle rub with a damp cloth is often sufficient to remove loose fuzz. Due to their low-shedding coat, the Devon rex is known to produce lower levels of the Fel d1 protein (the primary allergen for most people with a cat allergy), Ketter explains. However, no cat is completely hypoallergenic.

Nail trimming, as needed, is also important for your cat's comfort, as well as the preservation of your home's furniture.

Common Health Problems

The Devon rex is typically healthy and enjoys an average lifespan of 9 to 15 years. That said, the breed can be more prone to a few health conditions, including:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): The most common heart disease in cats. Breeding cats can be screened for HCM with echocardiograms, so ask for genetic test results when buying from a breeder, Kemper suggests.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A hereditary condition that leads to cysts in the kidneys, eventually causing kidney failure. Like HCM, PKD can be detected through genetic testing—something responsible breeders should provide.
• Hip Dysplasia: A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and arthritis. 
• Luxating Patella: A condition where the kneecap slips out of place, causing joint pain and mobility issues. Over time, it can lead to inflammation and early arthritis.
  

Appearance

Devon rex cats are instantly recognizable thanks to their elfin, whimsical appearance. This breed has a slender, small body that’s surprisingly muscular and athletic. They have a wedge-shaped head with prominent cheekbones, a short muzzle, and large, wide-set eyes that can come in nearly any color. 

One of the most striking features of these cats is their oversized ears, which are broad at the base and set low on the head. 

Their coat is short, fine, and soft to the touch, often described as suede-like or downy. The fur forms loose waves or ripples, especially along the back and sides, due to a lack of guard hairs. The Devon rex comes in any color or color combination. 

Diet and Nutrition

The Devon rex doesn’t have any special dietary requirements beyond what’s typical for a healthy cat. This includes a high-quality, meat-based food. 

As always, portion control is key to prevent weight gain, and fresh water should be available at all times. Feed your Devon rex measured meals at regular times. Kittens usually need three to four meals a day, while adults generally eat twice a day (morning and evening). 

Where to Adopt or Buy a Devon Rex Cat

Devon rex cats are quite rare and highly sought after, so you’re unlikely to find one at a shelter or rescue. The best way to obtain one is through a reputable breeder. Look for breeders who:

• Prioritize health and temperament
• Offer transparency about lineage and health testing
• Allow you to visit or video chat to see the cats’ living conditions
• Don’t rush the process or sell kittens too young

Depending on the breeder, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for a Devon rex kitten.

Always avoid backyard breeders and pet stores, which often source animals from mills and don’t provide proper socialization or vet care.

Devon Rex Overview

The Devon rex is an affectionate and spirited cat, instantly recognizable by their wavy coat, oversized ears, and impish features.

If you’re looking for an independent cat, the Devon rex might not be the best match. This social breed craves interaction, play, and plenty of quality time with their humans.

Pros of the Devon Rex

• Friendly and social with people and other pets
• Low-shedding coat
• Highly intelligent and trainable

Cons of the Devon Rex

• May need occasional bathing due to oily skin
• Needs a lot of attention 
• Rare and expensive

More Cat Breeds and Further Research

If you’re interested in similar breeds to the Devon rex, check out:

• Cornish rex
• Selkirk rex
• Sphynx

Otherwise, check out all of our other cat breed profiles.