Devon Rex Breed Profile

Where did Devon Rex Cats come from and how they have become what they are today.

In 1959, a Miss Cox of Devonshire England found that a stray cat in her care had given birth to a rather odd looking curly-haired kitten, the sire thought to be a curly-haired tomcat seen in the area. Delighted with the kitten's elfin features and wavy curls, she named him Kirlee -- the founding father of the unique and wonderful breed of cats known today as the Devon Rex. Today's Devon Rex maintain a look true to their founder -- huge ears, set low on the sides of the head frame, a pixie-like face with large, inquisitive eyes and a short slightly upturned nose. A coat of loose waves and curls covers a strong and supple body in a compact, refined form. These unusual features decorate a breed whose personality, intelligence, friendliness and inquisitive behavior are as unique as the package it comes in. A young breed, the Devon Rex is carefully crossbred to American and British Shorthairs in order to enlarge and strengthen the gene pool.

Nicely "mid-sized" cats, adult Devons average six to nine pounds, with males heavier than females. While an even, full coat of loose curls is ideal for the show ring, the Devon coat varies greatly between individuals, ranging from an almost shaggy mop of loose curls in some to a thin suede-like coat in others that may leave some areas nearly bare. The coat may vary over the life of the cat, with some kittens dropping much of their coat ("molting") during their development, and some adult coats changing seasonally. Even though their body temperature is the same as other cats, many Devons are surprisingly warm to the touch due to a lighter, less insulating coat. Not surprisingly, Devons tend to be "heat seekers," and are often found lounging on televisions, computer monitors and heater vents. On chilly nights, Devons make wonderful bed warmers, often sneaking under the covers to stay warm and share body heat with their favorite people.

The Devon personality has been described as a cross between a cat, a monkey, and "Dennis the Menace." Devons are highly active, playful and involved with everything. Powerful jumpers, very few spots large enough to hold them will not be explored and occupied. Devons have been found climbing brick fireplaces and perching on top of doors. Devons are very people-oriented. Most Devons invite themselves along for every activity -- preferably perched on a shoulder, lap, or wherever they can be closest to their people.

Devons are low maintenance, wash-and-wear companions. Their large ears occasionally require cleaning, but otherwise a quick shampoo and towel dry (or even a wipe down with a damp cloth) and a nail-trim is all the grooming most Devons require, they shed very little and their unique coat makes their shed hair less obtrusive than that of many cats. Devons tend to be "hypo-allergenic," but this varies according to an individual's personal allergies. Most people with animal allergies tolerate Devons very well, I know I do!