Devon Rex

Devon Rex History

• 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.

Devon Rex Behavior 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.

Look of Devon Rexs

• 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.

Grooming Devon Rex Cats

• 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 for Devon Rex

• 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.

Fun Facts of Devon Rexs

• 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.

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