The Devon Rex is a cat breed that captivates with its distinctive appearance and engaging personality. Often likened to a pixie or a waiflike model due to their high cheekbones, large eyes, slender bodies, and unique hairstyle, these cats possess a charm that is hard to resist. Their coat, a cousin to the Cornish Rex but with looser curls, gives them a charmingly tousled look. This breed is highly intelligent, incredibly active, and thrives on interaction, making them a delightful companion for many households. They are known for their playful nature, adaptability as travelers, and even their potential to serve as therapy cats. While some may believe the Devon Rex coat to be hypoallergenic, it’s important to understand that allergies are triggered by dander, not coat type, and no breed is scientifically proven to be entirely hypoallergenic. The Devon Rex is best suited for indoor living to ensure their safety from external dangers.
Distinctive Features of the Devon Rex
One of the most striking features of the Devon Rex is their large ears, which are broad at the base and set low on their head, framing their face and contributing to their elfin expression. Some individuals may even have tufts of hair on their ears, resembling earmuffs. The breed’s eyes are equally captivating and can come in any color, including blues often seen in colorpoint patterns and aquas prevalent in mink-colored cats. These unique physical traits contribute to the breed’s overall enchanting appearance.
The Fascinating History of the Devon Rex
The origin of the Devon Rex, much like its cousin the Cornish Rex, is a tale of serendipity. The breed’s lineage traces back to a feral tomcat with a curly coat discovered in an abandoned tin mine in Buckfastleigh, Devon, England. This tomcat’s genetic contribution led to a litter of kittens with a curly coat, one of whom, named Kirlee, caught the attention of Beryl Cox. Recognizing a potential link to the Cornish Rex, Miss Cox discovered that Kirlee’s coat was due to a different gene, resulting in a more tousled curl and often absent or stubby whiskers, distinguishing him from the Cornish Rex. This unique gene, now known as Devon Gene 2, forms the basis of all Devon Rex cats today, with every member of the breed tracing their ancestry back to Kirlee. The breed was first introduced to the United States in 1968 and gained recognition from The Cat Fanciers Association in 1979.
Temperament and Personality: An Engaging Companion
The Devon Rex is an alert, active, and inquisitive feline, showing a keen interest in everything happening around them. Their playful and outgoing nature makes them an excellent choice for families with older children, other pets, and households that frequently entertain guests. Devons are also known for their intelligence, and owners can further stimulate their minds by teaching them tricks and providing puzzle toys that dispense treats when solved. Their adaptability as travelers and suitability as therapy cats further highlight their exceptional temperaments. When selecting a Devon Rex kitten, it’s crucial to choose a breeder who raises kittens in a home environment and handles them from an early age, ensuring they are well-socialized. Meeting at least one, ideally both, parents can also provide insight into their temperaments.
Health Considerations for the Devon Rex
While generally a healthy breed, all cats, including the Devon Rex, are susceptible to genetic health issues. Reputable breeders will be transparent about potential health concerns and will not guarantee a breed is entirely free of problems. Be wary of breeders who do not offer health guarantees or claim their breed is 100% healthy. Some health issues observed in the Devon Rex include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a common heart disease in cats that causes the heart muscle to thicken; patellar luxation, where the kneecap dislocates; and hereditary myopathy, which affects muscle function. Responsible breeders will screen their breeding cats for HCM and patellar luxation and provide evidence of these tests. It’s also important to maintain a healthy weight for your Devon Rex to prevent obesity, a common health problem that can be easily managed through diet and exercise.
Grooming Needs of the Devon Rex
The Devon Rex sports a distinctive wavy coat that creates a rippled effect, typically thicker on the body, tail, legs, face, and ears, and potentially shorter on the top of the head, neck, chest, and belly, though it should never be bare. The coat has a soft, fine, and full-bodied texture. Gentle grooming is essential, as rough brushing can damage the delicate hairs. Some Devon Rex cats may develop a greasy skin condition, especially on their folds or paws, which can be managed with occasional baths every few weeks. Basic care includes trimming nails weekly, brushing teeth with a vet-approved pet toothpaste for good oral hygiene, and checking ears weekly for cleanliness, wiping them with a gentle ear cleanser recommended by a veterinarian if needed. Incorporating these grooming routines into kitten care will help ensure your Devon Rex tolerates them well into adulthood.
Finding a Reputable Devon Rex Breeder
Choosing a Devon Rex breeder requires thorough research to ensure you bring home a healthy and happy companion. Look for breeders who adhere to a code of ethics, do not sell to pet stores or wholesalers, and prioritize the well-being of their cats and buyers. They should conduct necessary health screenings to minimize the risk of genetic health problems and raise kittens in their homes to promote proper socialization. Be cautious of breeders who always have kittens available, have multiple litters on the premises, or allow you to choose any kitten without assessment. Many reputable breeders have websites, but red flags include convenience factors like online payment options without proper vetting. It’s advisable to consult your veterinarian, who can often recommend reputable breeders or rescue organizations. Patience is key, as you may need to wait for the right kitten, and breeders typically release kittens between 12 and 16 weeks of age. Consider adopting an adult Devon Rex, as their personality and health are more established.
Adopting a Devon Rex from Rescue or a Shelter
While uncommon, it’s worth exploring rescue groups and shelters for Devon Rex cats. Websites like Petfinder.com and Adopt-a-Pet.com can help you search for available cats in your area. Local animal shelters and rescue organizations can also be valuable resources. Engaging with local pet professionals such as veterinarians, cat sitters, and groomers can also lead to adoption opportunities, as they may know of cats needing new homes. Breed-specific rescue organizations are dedicated to helping homeless Devon Rexes. When considering adoption, ask key questions about the cat’s energy level, compatibility with other animals and children, personality, known health issues, and litterbox habits. Regardless of the source, ensure a clear contract is in place, and take your new feline friend to the veterinarian soon after adoption for a health check-up and to establish a preventive care plan.
