Compare breeds
Abyssinian vs Devon Rex
Abyssinian
Short
Devon Rex
Curly
Choose the Abyssinian if you want…
- less time spent grooming
- a quieter companion
Choose the Devon Rex if you want…
- a flat or small home
- less hair around the house
Side by side
| Trait | Abyssinian | Devon Rex |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Small |
| Weight | 3–5 kg (7–11 lb) | 2.5–4.5 kg (6–10 lb) |
| Height | 20–30 cm (8–12 in) | 25–30 cm (10–12 in) |
| Life span | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Origin | Ethiopia / Southeast Asia | England |
| Energy | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Suits a flat | 3/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 2/5 | 1/5 |
| Grooming needs | 1/5 | 2/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 2/5 | 3/5 |
Quick answers
Which lives longer, the Abyssinian or the Devon Rex?
Their typical life spans are about the same. Abyssinian: 12–15 years; Devon Rex: 12–15 years.
Is the Abyssinian or the Devon Rex better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
Other comparisons
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