Recognized by CFA, TICA, FIFe, GCCF
Devon Rex — The Devon Rex is a small, playful cat with big ears, large eyes, and a soft, wavy short coat. Often called a 'pixie cat' or 'monkey in a cat suit', it is highly social, mischievous, and full of energy, loves warmth, and stays devoted and affectionate with its people.
The Devon Rex started in 1960 in Devon, England. A woman named Beryl Cox took in a curly-coated kitten she named Kirlee, born to a stray near an old tin mine. At first breeders thought Kirlee shared the same gene as the Cornish Rex, found nearby a decade earlier, but test matings showed the curl came from a different, separate mutation. Kirlee became the founding cat of the new breed. The Devon Rex was recognized in Britain in 1967 and by American registries through the 1970s and 1980s. Today it is a popular, distinctive breed known as much for its playful personality as its curly coat.
Devon Rex cats are lively, clever, and deeply people-oriented. They are often described as a 'monkey in a cat suit' because of their mischief, acrobatics, and love of high places. They crave company and attention, follow their owners from room to room, and love to perch on shoulders or curl up under the covers for warmth. They stay playful and kitten-like well into adulthood, and they are curious enough to get into everything. Devons are friendly, affectionate, and thrive on interaction, so they do best in homes where they are not left alone for long stretches.
The Devon Rex has a short, fine, wavy coat with fragile hairs, so brushing can actually damage it. Instead, groom gently by stroking with a soft cloth or your hand to spread natural oils and remove loose hair. The breed sheds very little. Because the thin coat does not absorb skin oils well, Devons can get greasy skin and may need an occasional gentle bath, and their ears build up wax and need regular cleaning. Check and clean the large ears often, trim the nails, and brush the teeth. Their paw pads and skin can also get oily, so wipe them as needed.
Devon Rex cats are among the most active and athletic of all breeds and need plenty of daily play. They love to climb, jump, and leap to the highest point in any room, so tall cat trees, shelves, and perches are a must. Interactive toys, feather wands, fetch, and puzzle feeders keep their busy minds and bodies engaged. Many will happily play games with their owners and even learn tricks. Without enough activity they can get into mischief out of boredom. Several short, energetic play sessions a day help burn off their high energy and keep them fit and content.
Feed a Devon Rex a complete, high-quality cat food rich in animal protein to fuel its fast metabolism and active lifestyle. These small, busy cats can have hearty appetites, and some are notorious food thieves, so keep counters clear and store food securely. Measure meals to keep a healthy weight, since even active cats can gain if overfed. Two measured meals a day suits most adults, though very active young cats may do well with a little more. Keep fresh water available at all times. Ask your vet about the right portion and body condition for your individual cat.
Devon Rex cats do well in apartments and homes as long as they have plenty of vertical space and company. Their thin coat gives little insulation, so they seek out warmth and love sunny spots, laps, heated beds, and spots under the covers. They handle warm climates better than cold and should be kept out of drafts and chilly rooms. They are strictly indoor cats. Because they crave attention and dislike being alone, they suit households where someone is home often, or where a second pet can keep them company. Provide cat trees, safe high perches, and lots of interactive toys.
Devon Rex cats are wonderful family pets. They are gentle, playful, and patient with children who treat them kindly, and their sturdy, energetic nature means they enjoy interactive games. They are very social and usually get along beautifully with other cats and with dogs, often seeking out a companion to play with, which makes them a great second pet. Their strong need for company means they thrive in active homes and do best when not left alone all day. Their friendly, adaptable temperament makes them a fine choice for first-time owners as well as experienced cat lovers.
Devon Rex cats are highly intelligent and trainable, more like dogs than typical cats in their eagerness to interact. They quickly learn tricks such as fetch, sit, jump, and coming when called, and they respond well to clicker training and reward-based methods with treats and praise. Their curiosity and cleverness mean they figure out how to open doors, cupboards, and faucets, so some cat-proofing helps. Litter training is usually easy. Keep their sharp minds busy with training games and puzzle feeders to prevent boredom and mischief. Avoid harsh methods, since these sensitive, social cats respond best to positive attention.
A Devon Rex costs roughly 40 to 90 US dollars a month to keep for good food, litter, ear-cleaning supplies, and routine care. Grooming costs are low thanks to the short coat, though regular ear cleaning and occasional baths are part of the routine. Yearly vet checkups, vaccines, and parasite prevention are ongoing, and the breed's risk of heart and muscle conditions makes a savings fund or pet insurance sensible. A pedigree kitten from a responsible breeder can cost well over a thousand dollars up front, plus spay or neuter and starter supplies. Overall it is a moderately priced, indoor-only companion cat.