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miaomap.com · Breed atlas030 / DREX
Devon Rex
Solid blue-gray wavy short coat with gold oval eyes
✳ miaomap.comBreed atlas · 030
Feline breed atlas030 / DREX
Devon Rex
Origin
Devon, England, United Kingdom
Coat
Soft, wavy short coat in many colors and patterns
The Devon Rex traces its beginnings to a curly-coated male kitten found in Devon, England, in 1959 and named Kirlee by Beryl Cox. Initially thought to share the Cornish Rex coat mutation, he proved otherwise through test matings.
The Devon Rex traces its beginnings to a curly-coated male kitten found in Devon, England, in 1959 and named Kirlee by Beryl Cox. Initially thought to share the Cornish Rex coat mutation, he proved otherwise through test matings. Subsequent breeding and outcrosses helped develop the Devon Rex, whose many colors and patterns are variations within the same breed.
02Devon Rex appearance and coat
Look for a modified wedge-shaped head, prominent cheekbones, a short muzzle, and very large, broad-based ears set low. Large oval eyes sit widely apart. The lithe body is muscular, with a broad chest, slender legs, slightly longer hind legs, and a long tapering tail. Soft short fur forms loose waves; whiskers may curl and break. Appearance alone cannot establish pedigree.
03Devon Rex temperament and interaction
Many Devon Rex cats are curious, active, and people-oriented, often following household activities or seeking play and closeness. Interactive toys and dependable companionship may suit them well. Individuals differ in their tolerance for handling and strangers; introductions to children or other animals should be gradual, with boundaries respected and quiet retreat spaces available.
04Grooming and everyday care
Use gentle hand smoothing or a soft damp cloth rather than vigorous brushing, which can damage fragile hair and whiskers. Provide warm resting places, daily interactive play, and routine veterinary care. Seek advice for skin irritation or coat changes rather than diagnosing them yourself. Breeding requires veterinary-guided blood typing: type B is relatively common, and parental incompatibility can endanger newborn kittens.
Devon Rex · Common questions before choosing a cat
How does a Devon Rex differ from a Cornish Rex?
Both have curled coats, but their curls arise from different inherited mutations; they are not two names for one rex breed. Devons generally have looser waves and retain sparse, short, curled guard hairs. Prominent cheekbones, a short muzzle, and low-set oversized ears offer further clues, although pedigree requires reliable records.
Does lighter shedding make a Devon Rex suitable for cat allergies?
Devon Rex cats still shed, often less than many other cats. Allergic reactions are not determined by visible hair alone, so lighter shedding does not guarantee freedom from symptoms. Before adopting, discuss your circumstances with a medical professional and consider your response to the individual cat rather than relying on breed labels.
Why can a Devon Rex have short or curled whiskers, and how should they be cared for?
Devon Rex eyebrows and whiskers can curl and be fragile, leaving short bent remnants when they break. Do not trim, pull, or try to straighten them. Handle the coat gently and monitor the skin. Sudden substantial loss, redness, crusting, or discomfort warrants veterinary attention rather than being dismissed as a breed feature.
Sources and production notes
Text is based on the association sources below. AI-assisted original illustrations depict one coat variety, not every individual. Health and care information is general and does not replace veterinary assessment.
Based on the association sources listed on each profile. Illustrations do not establish pedigree. Independently produced by miaomap, without association endorsement. Numbers are catalog IDs, not rarity ranks.
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