Cat breed · Shorthair (rex)
Devon Rex
Mischievous, playful, affectionate
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 2.5–4.5 kg (6–10 lb)
- Height
- 25–30 cm (10–12 in)
- Life span
- 12–15 years
- Origin
- England
The coat
Curly
Stroke it to see how it lies.
At a glance
Are Devon Rex cats right for you?
You will love
- Gentle and patient with children
- Usually gets on with other pets
- Quick to learn
- Copes well in a flat
- Sheds little
Be ready for
- Needs a lot of exercise every day
- Several inherited health problems — choose a breeder who screens
How big, really
Adult Devon Rex cats weigh 2.5–4.5 kg (6–10 lb). Shoulder height shown at the top of the range.
About the Devon Rex
With huge ears, a pixie face and a coat of soft waves, the Devon Rex is one of the most unusual-looking cats. Their personality matches: playful, curious and fond of perching on shoulders. They often stay kitten-like for years.
The thin, curly coat sheds little but is not hypoallergenic, since allergens come from saliva and skin. With less fur to absorb oils, their skin and ears can become greasy and need occasional cleaning. Devons feel the cold and appreciate heated beds and sunny windowsills.
Health to know about
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Hereditary myopathy (DNA test available)
- Luxating patella
- Greasy skin and yeast infections
- Inherited clotting disorder
Care in short
- Gentle bathing or wiping when the skin gets greasy
- Clean the ears regularly
- Warm beds — they feel the cold
- Climbing space and daily play
Kit for a Devon Rex
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Best everyday brush
Self-cleaning slicker brush
4.6Fine bent wires lift loose undercoat; a button pushes the hair off.
- Quick to clean
- Suits most medium and long coats
Best for saving the sofa
Sisal scratching post, 80 cm
4.6Tall and heavy enough for a full stretch without wobbling.
- Sisal rope cats prefer
- Wide weighted base
Best for indoor cats
Multi-level cat tree
4.4Climbing, perching and hiding in one piece of furniture.
- Several perches
- Replaceable posts
Similar breeds
Questions owners ask
How big does a Devon Rex get?
Adults usually weigh 2.5–4.5 kg (6–10 lb) and stand 25–30 cm (10–12 in) tall.
How long do Devon Rex cats live?
Typically 12–15 years.
Are Devon Rex cats good with children?
Generally very good (4 out of 5 on our scale). Every dog or cat is an individual; always supervise young children.
Do Devon Rex cats shed?
Very little.
What health problems are Devon Rex cats prone to?
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; Hereditary myopathy (DNA test available); Luxating patella; Greasy skin and yeast infections; Inherited clotting disorder.
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts