Devon Rex
The Devon Rex are adorable and small-sized cats. People love them due to their appearance. These cats have large eyes and ears on their small face, giving them an alien-like look. Apart from their physical appearance, These cats are recognized for their friendly nature.
They can become perfect family pets due to their affectionate, highly intelligent, and friendly nature. However, their looks are enough to win everyone’s hearts. They also have a hypoallergenic coat, making them a convenient family member. Moreover, despite their high prices and high maintenance costs, people are crazy about owning them.
If you want to learn more about Devon Rex’s history, health issues, care routine, and colors then don’t forget to check the following details.
Key Features:
Name:
Devon Rex
Other Names:
Alien Cat, Pixie Cat, Poodle Cat
Origin:
Popularity:
#7 in 2018
Size:
Small
Lifespan:
15-17 Years
Coat:
Short, Silky, Soft
Nature:
Friendly, Social, Interactive, Playful, Loyal
Average Price:
$1000 – $3000
Colors:
40+
Weight:
Male: 2.8 to 4.5 kg, Female: 2.4 to 3.6 kg
Adaptability:
Kids Friendly:
Other Pets Friendly:
Affection Level:
Intelligence
Energy Level:
Playfulness:
Grooming Needs:
Shedding:
Vocalization:
Behavior with Guests
Health Issues:
Origin:
This breed first appeared in Devon, England, in the 1960s. Then, their first American sighting occurred in 1968. Later, Gosomeseacat, the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), the International Cat Association (TICA), and the International Licensed Group of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) all accepted this breed in 1979.
Population:
Devon Rex is one of the rarest and most demanding cat breeds in the world. However, the specific population numbers of these majestic cats are not typically tracked globally. The estimated population of these alien cats is likely in the thousands. You may also get an estimated number of these cats from breeder associations and cat registries.
Average Price:
A Devon Rex typically costs between $1000 and $3000. However, a variety of criteria including kitten color, pedigree, and breeder location largely influence their pricing. The unique look and limited availability of this breed are the main reasons for their high selling price. If you want to get one of them at a low price then you should go for adoption. They can be adopted from local cat shelters and adoption centers. These unique kitties may cost between $300 and $500 for adoption.
History:
Back in 1960 at Buckfastleigh, Devon, the Devon Rex made its appearance as a curly-coated kitten. Because their coat was similar, it was believed that the original Devon Rex cat was a Cornish Rex. They were two separate breeds, though, based on some noticeable differences in appearance.
The story of this breed started with a kitten, named Kirlee, who was discovered in Buckfastleigh. Kirlee had a unique coat, characterized by curly and soft fur. Later, the curly-coated, brownish-black Kirlee was adopted by a woman breeder, Berly Cox.
Berly Cox starts aiming to establish a new cat breed with a distinctive curly coat by breeding Kirlee with other cats. After careful breeding, Berly Cox managed to produce this breed. Later, this cat breed gained so much popularity worldwide due to its astonishing looks and loving personality.
Characteristics:
Lifespan
Like any other feline breed, the lifespan of this breed is affected by several variables such as environmental conditions, diet, health care, and others. The average duration of life for this cat is 15 to 17 years which makes them one of the longest-life cats. On the other hand, you can ensure your cat lives a long, healthy life by providing them with a well-rounded meal, a spacious, safe home, and medicine when needed. When they receive the right care, cats remain alive for more than 17 years.
Weight and size
These are medium-sized cats with a height of 12 inches. These cats have a body length of around 18 to 20 inches and weigh between 3 and 5 kilograms. Moreover, the male cat in this breed is healthier than the female one.
| Body Measures | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 19 to 21 inches | 18 to 20 inches |
| Weight | 2.8 to 4.5 kg | 2.4 to 3.6 kg |
| Height | 10 to 12 inches | 9 to 11 inches |
Click here to read about the Devon Rex Growth.
Appearance
The alien-like look of these cats has made them popular. Their appearance makes them a unique and astonishing cat breed. The most recognizable feature of Devon Rex’s appearance is their coat, they have fragile coats with little guard hair and their coats range from wavy to velvety.
These cats have lean muscular bodies along with long legs. They have wedge-shaped heads and short or curly whiskers. Moreover, these cats come with large expressive eyes, rounded ears, high cheekbones, and large noses.
Color & Patterns
Like other cat breeds, these cats also come in a variety of colors and patterns. These cats are among the most remarkable breeds of cats since each color is extraordinary and distinct. Since this breed has so many colors, we have categorized them into solid, bi-color, tabby-color, and smoke-shaded colors.
Solid
- Black
- Blue
- Chocolate
- White
- Fawn
- Red
- Lavender
- Cream
- Cinnamon
Bi-Colors
- Chocolate and white
- Black and white
- Red and white
- Blue and white
- Cream and white
Tabby Colors
- Blue tabby
- Cream tabby
- Fawn tabby
- Silver tabby
- Brown tabby
- Red tabby
- Chocolate tabby
- Cameo tabby
Smoke Shaded
- Cream smoke
- Red smoke
- Black smoke
- Fawn cream smoke
- Cinnamon smoke
- Blue smoke
- Lavender smoke
- Chocolate Smoke
Click here to view details about Devon Rex Colors and Patterns.
Temperament
Devon rex are very loving animals who love to cuddle and often stay with family. They enjoy the companionship of people and other pets and are also outgoing cats. Moreover, their playful nature makes them interesting pets for every family. You will always enjoy their high energy while playing and chasing toys with them.
The Devon Rex cats are also curious and love to explore every nook of their environment. You may also find them investigating their surroundings. Another good thing about Devon Rex is that they are not vocal like other breeds. These astonishing cats use soft chirps and trills to seek attention.
Personality:
Companionable
Their affectionate nature characterizes the companionable personality of these cats. Devon Rex cats are great companions who always make strong bonds with their owners. They love to stay close to their family members and usually seek out physical contact like cuddling.
Sociable
As we know many cat owners always want to make their cats well-sociable by providing them different social activities. Meanwhile, Devon Rex are highly sociable cats so you don’t need to put extra effort into making them a social pet. They are not shy about interacting with new people or playing with other pets.
Energetic
The energetic nature of the Devon Rex cat always fascinates everyone. You will never find them sitting at the room corner but they will roam everywhere in your home. These cats are always ready to play games or perform any kind of activity.
Health Issues:
The following table details the few health issues that this breed has to deal with. Don’t forget to check it out because even minor health problems might have fatal consequences.
| Diseases | Explanation | Symptoms | Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hereditary myopathy | Hereditary myopathy is a muscular disorder in these cats. This health condition is a genetic disease in these cats. | 1- Stiff gait 2- Vomiting 3- Weakness 4- Increased muscle mass | The treatment for hereditary myopathy depends on the conditions and severity. Cats with this condition need daily vet checkups to adjust treatment plans. |
| Hypertrophic cardiac myopathy | Hypertrophic cardiac myopathy is a heart muscle disease in which the heart walls become hypertrophied. This disease may lead to heart failure and blood clots. | 1- Lethargy 2- Collapsing 3- Shortness of breath 4- Weak pulse | Although medicine and eating habits may minimize the possibility of problems, hypertrophic cardiac myopathy in these cats is a lifelong disorder. |
| Polycystic kidney disease | Like Hereditary myopathy, polycystic kidney disease is a genetic condition in these cats. In this disease, the cysts are produced in the cat’s kidney which disrupts kidney function. | 1- Increased urination 2- Weight loss 3- Vomiting 4- Lethargy | Polycystic kidney disease is not cureable but treatment can control the symptoms in cats. Moreover, regular monitoring is important along with dietary management. |
| Skin issues | Several kinds of skin problems are found in these cats including Urticaria Pigmentosa, and feline acne but greasy seborrheic dermatitis is most commonly found in this breed. | 1- Sensitive and itchy skin 2- Oily coat 3- Hair loss | To treat skin problems, your vet may recommend anti-seborrheic shampoo or antibiotics to treat bacterial infections. It’s also important to provide frequent bathing to your infected cat. |
Care:
Grooming
This breed doesn’t need an extra amount of grooming. Their coat has breakable hairs, so they don’t need regular brushing. However, an excessive amount of fur grooming may lead to bald patches. Moreover, along with regular teeth brushing, don’t forget to clean their large ears to avoid ear infections in your cat.
Quality food
For the health of the Devon Rex cat, it is necessary to have a diet that is high in protein. As a result, they need a diet that is very high in meat since they are going to be carnivores. Moreover, we suggest you feed kitten food to your cat during their early years.
Freshwater
Access to fresh and clean water for your Devon Rex cats is necessary to keep them hydrated. Water may have run out or been spilled and bowls will ignore it no matter what, so make it a routine to take care of it. Moreover, cats would prefer eating and drinking in different areas, thus you must keep their water and food dishes separated.
Social Interaction
Just like humans, social interaction is really important for cats. Even though Devon Rex is a well-sociable cat breed, It still requires social interaction to gain more confidence. You can start their social interaction by letting your cat observe new humans and pets. Daily interaction with pets and humans strengthens social bonds.
Click Here to view a detailed guide on Devon Rex Care.
Interesting facts about Devon Rex Breed:
Celebrity Cat
Celebrities often own cats of this breed due to their unique appearance and affectionate behavior. Many singers and actresses including Taylor Swift, Adele, Nicole Kidman, and Ed Sheeran have kept Devon Rex Cat over the years. Moreover, the singer, dancer, and actor “Jennifer Lopez” also added a Devon Rex kitten named Hendrix to the family.
Featured in Movies
The two Devon Rex cats appeared in Disney’s Lady and the Tramp film in 2019. Their character names were Rex and Devon and they played the part of mischievous antagonists. They are a pair of playful twins who seek to cause trouble and incriminate a lady.
Discussed in Books
“The Cat with No Whisker” is a popular children’s book written by Ruth Brown. In that book, the writer mentioned his Devon Rex kitten who was born without whiskers. The story revolves around the adventures and interactions this unique cat has.
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- Highly intelligent
- Quick learners
- Easy to groom
- Low-shedding coat
- Highly affectionate and loving
- Good with children and other pets
- Adaptable to different environments
- Unique appearance
Cons
- Several health problems
- Temperature sensitivity
- Expensive to purchase
- Required special care
- Always demand for attention
FAQs:
Are Devon Rex cats hypoallergenic?
Although they do not produce as many allergies as many other breeds, These cats are not strictly hypoallergenic.
Are Devon Rex cats good with other pets?
These cats get along well and are amiable with other animals, particularly cats. They love to enjoy the company of other pets at home.
Are Devon Rex cats vocal?
Although Devon Rex cats don’t usually chirp to attract attention, they may do so when they feel neglected.
Do Devon Rex cats have any special dietary needs?
Although these cats don’t have any particular dietary requirements, it does need high-protein foods to remain in good health.
What are the behavioral problems of Devon Rex cats?
Although Devon Rex cats are generally peaceful and amiable, if they are not given proper care, they may develop violent tendencies.
Conclusion:
The Devon Rex is a fantastic breed with a distinctive look, a loving nature, and a respectable build. Because of this, they are the pet of choice for every household on the planet. These cats are available in different colors and patterns. Moreover, their rates are high if you purchase them through breeders but adopting them from adoption centers will be cheaper.
