The Devon Rex, a mischievous and affectionate cat with an elfin look.
The Pixie Cat with Curly Fur
The Devon Rex is a unique cat breed, easily recognizable by its distinctive pixie-like appearance: large, low-set ears, a mischievous face, and an unusually soft, curly coat. Originating from Devonshire, England, this breed emerged in the late 1950s due to a spontaneous genetic mutation. Nicknamed the 'dog-like cat' or 'poodle cat', the Devon Rex is famous for its playful, curious, and extremely affectionate temperament that lasts throughout its life.
Its supposedly hypoallergenic coat (though no cat is 100% hypoallergenic) and sociable nature make it an ideal companion for many families, capable of adapting to various lifestyles.
Our Feline Specialist's Advice
By the CatName.com team, published on October 14, 2025.
My personal tip : The Devon Rex's short, curly coat is its most distinctive feature, but it is also delicate. Do not brush it too often or too hard, as this could damage the curls. Regular wiping with a damp washcloth is sufficient to keep it clean. Its large ears require weekly cleaning to prevent earwax buildup. The Devon Rex is a very active and intelligent cat, so it needs a lot of stimulation through play and interaction with its humans. Hide food, use interactive toys, and teach it tricks to keep it mentally enriched. It loves warmth, so provide cozy, warm spots for it to rest.
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Identifying the Devon Rex: Key Characteristics
The Devon Rex's large, bat-like ears and wavy coat are unique.
The Devon Rex is a small to medium-sized cat with a slender, muscular, and elegant body. Its head is distinctively wedge-shaped, with large expressive eyes and a short nose. But it is its very large and wide-set ears, placed low on the head, that give it its elfin appearance.
Size: It is a small to medium-sized cat, with a slender and athletic build.
Coat: Short, soft, fine, and wavy or curly, resembling suede. All colors and patterns are accepted. The undercoat is very fine or absent.
Head: Short wedge-shaped, with prominent cheekbones and a flat forehead.
Eyes: Large, oval, well-spaced, all colors accepted, with no correlation to coat color.
Ears: Very large, wide at the base, rounded at the tips, and set very low on the head, covered with fine down.
Tail: Long, fine, and well-covered with curly hair, carried high.
Dimensions and Key Information (Devon Rex)
Characteristic
Male
Female
Average
Size (at shoulder)
25 – 30 cm
20 – 25 cm
20 – 30 cm
Weight
3 – 4.5 kg
2.5 – 4 kg
2.5 – 4.5 kg
Life Expectancy
12 – 18 years
12 – 18 years
12 – 18 years
Diet
Strict carnivore
Strict carnivore
High-quality kibble and wet food
Litter Size (kittens)
-
Variable
Generally 3-6
These figures indicate that the Devon Rex is a small to medium-sized cat, with a delicate build, and whose growth is completed around 1 year of age.
Behavior: Mischievous, Affectionate, and Very Active
The Devon Rex is a cat with a unique look, recognizable by its soft, wavy coat, large, low-set ears, and expressive eyes. But beyond its singular appearance, it's its mischievous and affectionate temperament that makes it so special. Nicknamed the "Poodle Cat" or "Pixie Cat," it has an insatiable curiosity and loves to be the center of attention. These are highly intelligent cats, capable of learning tricks and problem-solving.
Devon Rexes are extremely social companions and adore human company. They readily snuggle up to their owners, sleep under the covers, and actively participate in family life. Their love for heights and interactive games makes them very entertaining cats. They generally get along well with children and other animals, including dogs, thanks to their adaptable and open nature.
Their boundless energy and need for interaction can be reminiscent of the lively temperament of the Abyssinian, though the Devon Rex is often more physically demonstrative in its affection. If you are drawn to cats with unusual looks and very distinctive characters, you might also be intrigued by the hairless appearance of the Sphynx, or the elegantly curled ears of the American Curl. For a more classic elegance but with an equally communicative and intelligent personality, the Oriental is another fascinating breed that might appeal to you. The Devon Rex promises a life full of laughter and tenderness.
Origin and Adaptability
The history of the Devon Rex began in 1959 in Devonshire, England, when a stray cat gave birth to a litter of kittens, one of which, named Kirlee, had a unique curly coat. This spontaneous genetic mutation, different from that which created the Cornish Rex, is the foundation of the entire Devon Rex breed. Kirlee was bred with other cats to establish this new breed.
The breed was officially recognized by feline associations in the 1960s and 1970s. The Devon Rex is exceptionally adaptable and thrives in various environments, including apartments, as long as it receives sufficient attention and stimulation. Its tolerance for indoor living, combined with its need for companionship, makes it an ideal cat for active families who can offer it love and entertainment. Due to its low grooming needs and its supposedly hypoallergenic temperament, it is also popular with people sensitive to cat allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Devon Rex
What is unique about the Devon Rex's coat?
The Devon Rex has a short, soft, fine, and distinctly wavy or curly coat, resembling suede. This coat is the result of a unique genetic mutation and is generally low-shedding, making it a breed often better tolerated by people with allergies.
What is the typical temperament of a Devon Rex?
The Devon Rex is a very playful, intelligent, curious, and extremely affectionate cat. Nicknamed the "dog-cat", it loves to interact with its humans, play fetch, and learn tricks. It is very sociable and gets along well with children and other animals.
How do you groom the Devon Rex's ears and coat?
Its curly coat should not be brushed too frequently. Regular wiping with a damp mitt is sufficient. Its large ears require weekly cleaning to prevent earwax buildup.
Is the Devon Rex prone to specific health problems?
While generally robust, the Devon Rex can be predisposed to hereditary myopathy (spasticity), patellar luxation, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Genetic screening and regular veterinary check-ups are important.
What is the life expectancy of a Devon Rex?
The average life expectancy of a Devon Rex typically ranges between 12 and 18 years, with appropriate care and a stimulating environment.
