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.
