Devon Rex
Great Britain
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 2.5–4.5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- mischievous
- affectionate
- playful
- people-oriented
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Devon Rex
The Devon Rex began with a curly-coated cat found in Devon around 1960. Although it looked similar to the Cornish Rex, the coat proved to be caused by a different gene. Devons are small, slender cats with huge low-set ears, large eyes and a short muzzle, giving an elfin look. The coat is short, soft and loosely waved, sometimes sparse in places.
Temperament
Mischievous, affectionate and highly social. Devons tend to want to be with their people constantly, perching on shoulders and joining in household activity. They are often described as clownish.
Play & activity
Active and playful. Enjoys climbing, fetch and puzzle toys. Short bursts of play spread through the day suit its temperament.
Grooming
Over-brushing can damage the fragile coat. Gentle hand grooming is usually enough, and ears often need regular cleaning as they collect wax.
Care & wellbeing
Sensitive to cold and to strong sun. The breed has a known inherited muscle condition, Devon Rex myopathy, and some lines carry a blood type that matters if they ever need a transfusion.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 3.5 kg adult- Water
- 140 ml–210 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 220 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Devon Rex
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Devon Rex began with a curly-coated kitten found in Devon, England, and proved to be a different mutation from the Cornish Rex. It has a fine wavy coat, big ears and a pixie-like face. Devons are mischievous, people-oriented and climb well.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Hereditary myopathy (muscle weakness)
- Skin problems
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Heart scans for HCM
- Kneecap checks
- Myopathy DNA test
Not every Devon Rex is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Devon Rex right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
- Smaller homes and flats
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Devon Rex get?
Adult Devon Rexs typically weigh around 2.5–4.5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Devon Rexs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Devon Rex?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Devon Rex need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Devon Rexs affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Devon Rexs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Devon Rexs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Devon Rex live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Devon Rexs have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, hereditary myopathy (muscle weakness), skin problems. Not every Devon Rex is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.