Devon Rex

Breed Type: Persian
Common nicknames: Pixie
Coat: Short-haired
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Friendly, playful, affectionate, energetic
Life expectancy: 9-15 years
Color & patterns:
Hero image
Devon Rex - black
Devon Rex - chinchilla
Devon Rex - chinchilla
With their impish looks, elfin faces, large, playful eyes, and wavy coats, the Devon Rex has a striking appearance. But these cats offer more than just their looks: Devons are famously affectionate, outgoing, and just a tad bit naughty. They also love to be involved in every aspect of your life, whether perching on your shoulder during a walk, playing fetch like a canine companion, or snuggling up with you under the covers at bedtime. Devon Rex cats are all-inclusive lovers, making them fantastic family pets who are good with kids and other pets alike. So, if you’re on the hunt for a feline companion as lovable as they are lively and as cheeky as they are charming, the Devon Rex might be the cat for you.

Devon Rex characteristics

Learn about about Devon Rex basics like if they're good with kids and other Devon Rexes, how much grooming they need, and other facts.

Average height

10-12 inches (25.4-30.5cm)

Average weight

5-10 pounds (2.3-4.5 kg)

Average lifespan

9-15 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Are Devon Rex cats good with other cats?

Yes, Devon Rexes usually enjoy the company of other cats. Like any breed, individual personalities can vary, but proper introductions and socialization can help ensure a harmonious relationship between cats.

Are Devon Rex cats good with dogs?

Yes, Devon Rexes typically get along quite well with dogs due to their friendly and adaptable nature. Of course, each dog and cat has their own preferences and temperaments, but if introduced early and properly, socialized from a young age, and if both pets have compatible temperaments, they should get along fine.

Are Devon Rex cats good hunters?

Yes, Devon Rex cats have a strong prey drive and are good hunters. However, their hunting behavior can vary based on individual personalities and whether they have been raised in an environment that encourages such activities.

How much do Devon Rex cats shed?

Devon Rex cats are light shedders. Their unique curly coats trap dead hair more easily than other breeds, so regular brushing is important to keep their coat healthy and minimize shedding.

Do you need to groom a Devon Rex cat?

A once-weekly brushing will do right by this low-shedding, easy-to-maintain breed. In addition to brushing, all cats should have their claws trimmed every two weeks or so. Cats are also prone to periodontal disease and should have their teeth brushed two to three times a week.

Devon Rex history

Learn about where this Devon Rex came from!

What is the difference between Cornish Rex and Devon Rex?

While both Cornish Rex and Devon Rex cats have curly coats, there are some key differences between them, including:

  • Coat texture: Cornish Rex cats have a very short, soft, and wavy coat with no guard hairs, giving it a distinct feel. Devon Rex cats have a slightly coarser coat with guard hairs, and their curls are less uniform.

  • Body shape: Cornish Rex cats have a sleek, slender body with long legs, a deep chest, and an arched back. Devon Rex cats have a more compact and muscular body with a broad chest and a slightly shorter stature.

  • Head shape: Cornish Rex cats have an egg-shaped head with high cheekbones and large, high-set ears. Devon Rex cats have shorter, more rounded heads with prominent cheekbones and large, low-set ears.

Where are Devon Rex cats from?

Devon Rex cats are from Devon, England. In 1960, a curly-coated cat in the southwestern English county mated with a straight-coated calico, which bore a short, curly-coated cat named Kirlee, who was used to both herald and develop the breed.

How long do Devon Rex cats live?

Devon Rex cats typically live for nine to 15 years. However, individual lifespans can vary based on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, healthcare, and overall lifestyle. Providing proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to helping cats of all breeds live long and healthy lives.

When do Devon Rex cats stop growing?

Devon Rex cats generally stop growing by the time they are one to two years old. However, some may continue to fill out slightly until they are around three years old.

Are Devon Rex cats rare?

Yes, Devon Rex cats are relatively rare. They are less common than some other breeds. Their unique appearance and charming personalities make them a sought-after breed among cat enthusiasts.

Devon Rex temperament

Learn about about the Devon Rex temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Do Devon Rex cats meow a lot?

Yes, the Devon Rex is quite vocal. They typically enjoy communicating with their people and can be quite chatty, especially when seeking attention or expressing their needs. However, every cat is unique, and some may be more vocal than others.

Are Devon Rex cats friendly?

Yes, Devon Rexes are incredibly friendly with their people. They are generally playful, curious, and enjoy interacting with their human family members. Some Devon Rex may express themselves differently and prefer being alone — every cat is unique.

Are Devon Rex cats good indoor cats?

Yes, Devon Rex cats are good indoor cats. For safety reasons, it is recommended that all cats be kept indoors.

Are Devon Rex cats cuddly?

Yes, Devon Rex cats are super cuddly. They generally prioritize a good snuggle, including curling up in a warm lap.

Are Devon Rex cats active?

Yes, Devon Rex cats are active. Devons are extremely playful and intelligent, fond of fetching and cuddling. They are known for their love of climbing and investigating new places. Providing them with toys and activities that stimulate their minds and bodies helps keep them happy and entertained.

Devon Rex health

Learn about about the Devon Rex health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Are Devon Rex cats hypoallergenic?

No, Devon Rex cats are not hypoallergenic, although many claim that this breed fares better with allergy sufferers. Their minimal shedding and short coat reduce the amount of dander they produce, which may make them more tolerable for people with allergies to cats.

Are Devon Rex cats healthy?

The Devon Rex is mainly healthy apart from one genetic issue.

  • Neonatal isoerythrolysis: Devon Rexes have both A and B blood types, which makes their combined litters susceptible to neonatal isoerythrolysis. This condition is triggered when kittens with type A blood nurse from their mother who has type B blood during the first 24 hours of life. The mother’s milk contains antibodies against the kitten’s type A blood, which leads to the destruction of the kitten’s red blood cells. Kittens with NI will need a blood transfusion.

Other common cat diseases that may affect Devon Rexes include:

  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): HCM is an abnormal thickening of the left ventricle of the heart that leads to improper blood flow. It is the most common cause of heart disease in cats and can result in sudden death.

  • Patellar luxation: Also known as slipped kneecaps, patellar luxation occurs when slight abnormalities cause the knee joint to slide in and out of place. This can cause pain and occasional lameness. Surgical treatment is available for severe cases, although many cats lead normal lives without treatment.

  • Others: Hereditary baldness.

Find Devon Rex kittens near you

Adopting a Devon Rex

We don't see any Devons available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Ashburn, VA.