Devon Rex

Place of Origin-UK

Shorthairs

Weight : Weight-6–9lb (2.5–4kg)

A curly coated feral tom and an adopted stray tortoiseshell were the originators of this highly specialized breed, which emerged in Buckfastleigh, Devon, UK. A litter produced by this unlikely pairing included a curly coated kitten, which became the foundation of the breed’s first development program. Initially, breeders believed that this Devonian line could be crossed with the Cornish Rex, another wavy-coated breed found nearby a few years earlier. However, when only normal-coated kittens resulted from these matings, it was understood that two distinct recessive genes had independently produced slightly different rexed coats in close geographical proximity. The Devon Rex’s fine, very short coat contains few guard hairs. Ideally, the waves should be loose and evenly spread across the body, but the degree of wave or curl varies between cats and may change with seasonal shedding or as they mature. The whiskers, which are crinkly, tend to be brittle and often break off before reaching their full length. Owing to their thin coats, these cats feel warmer to the touch than most breeds but are susceptible to chills and require draft-proof accommodations. A Devon Rex’s coat typically needs little more than a wipe-down to remain in good condition, though they tolerate gentle bathing if introduced to water as young kittens. Despite its leggy, slender appearance, the Devon Rex is remarkably resilient, with boundless energy for climbing and playing games. This cat thrives on attention and is not suited for families that are away from home for long periods.