The Devon Rex is a highly distinctive cat breed known for its ‘rex’ coat which is curled, waved or rippled. This unusual coat variation is the result of a regressive genetic mutation which was discovered in Devon, UK. It is often confused with the Cornish Rex which has a similar appearance.
In addition to their usual coat, they are also known for their slender bodies and large ears, as well as their mischievous personalities. They have famously been referred to as a ‘monkey in a cat suit’!
Description and Characteristics
Devon Rexes are small to medium-sized cats with hard, muscular bodies. They have a characteristic elfin look owing to prominent cheekbones, huge, low-set ears and large eyes. Their most recognisable feature is their thin crinkled and waved fur. Unlike most other cats which have three types of hair (the outer fur/guard hairs, middle layer/awn hair and an undercoat/down hair), the rex only has the undercoat and a scattering of guard hairs. Their fur is therefore extremely soft but can also be very thin. Their whiskers are also curled and extremely fragile, often causing them to break off creating a ‘designer stubble’ appearance. Devon Rexes come in a variety of coat colours.
Devon Rexes are very intelligent cats and notoriously mischievous! They are very active and love to play and will benefit from lots of company and opportunities to take part in interactive games. They also love to jump and will often be found perched up high. Usually, this is a breed which gets on well with other pets. Prospective owners should be aware that owing to their thin coats, Devon Rexes are sensitive to low temperatures and need to be kept warm. In addition, their low-shedding coat can be very fragile, breaking easily and they should never be brushed. Some cats may also develop bald patches due to the fragility of their fur. Despite their thin fur, they are not hypoallergenic.
Health and common issues
Devon Rex cats are generally healthy, however, they can still be prone to a number of health conditions including hip dysplasia and patella luxation. There are also some welfare concerns regarding their coat, which is the result of a genetic mutation which has been deliberately bred from. Due to their very thin fur, Devon Rexes can be sensitive to the cold and they may need additional protection from the sun. In cats with little fur, including the Devon Rex, the oil naturally produced to maintain the skin and hair is not able to naturally spread through the cat’s usually dense fur and therefore may build up on the skin. In some cases, this can make the cat feel greasy. The cat itself may feel uncomfortable and itchy as a result of oil build-up and may overgrow resulting in baldness.
