Devon Rex
The Good
- Incredibly affectionate and people-oriented personality
- Low-shedding coat that's better for allergy sufferers
- Highly intelligent and trainable, loves learning tricks
- Excellent with children and other pets
The Real
- Needs constant companionship and doesn't handle being alone well
- Can be mischievous and get into everything around the house
- Requires occasional bathing due to oily skin buildup
- Rare and expensive breed with limited availability in Australia
Gallery
Breed Overview
Meet the Devon Rex - the pixie cat that'll steal your heart faster than you can say "G'day!" These little characters are absolutely unique in the cat world, with their oversized ears, impish features, and impossibly soft, curly coat that feels like touching suede. Originally from Devon, England, they're often called the "Poodle of the cat world" thanks to their wavy fur and dog-like personalities.
What makes Devon Rex cats truly special isn't just their elfin appearance - it's their incredible devotion to their humans. These cats are your constant shadow, whether you're working from home in Melbourne's inner suburbs or enjoying a weekend barbecue on the Gold Coast. They'll perch on your shoulder while you cook dinner, "help" with your laptop during those endless video calls, and generally insert themselves into every aspect of your daily life.
Don't expect a typical aloof feline here. Devon Rex cats are social butterflies who thrive on interaction and play. They're brilliant with kids, get along famously with other pets, and have enough personality to entertain a household single-handedly. Their high energy and curiosity mean they're always up for an adventure, making them perfect companions for active Australian families who want a cat that's more like a furry best mate than a distant housemate.
History
The Devon Rex story begins in 1959 with a chance encounter in Devon, England, when a woman named Beryl Cox discovered a curly-coated kitten born to a stray calico. She named him Kirlee, and little did she know this scruffy little fellow would become the foundation of an entire breed. Initially, Cox thought Kirlee might be related to the recently discovered Cornish Rex, but breeding trials revealed something fascinating - his curly coat came from a completely different genetic mutation.
This discovery meant Kirlee wasn't just another Cornish Rex; he was something entirely new. All modern Devon Rex cats can trace their lineage back to this single, remarkable tom cat who apparently had quite the personality - he could walk on a tightrope and fetch toys like a dog! The breed development that followed was careful and deliberate, with breeders working to preserve Kirlee's unique genetic gift while developing healthy, robust cats.
By the 1970s, cat fancier associations recognised the Devon Rex as a distinct breed, and these charming pixie cats began winning hearts worldwide. The breed's journey to Australia followed the typical path of many imported breeds, with dedicated enthusiasts bringing these special cats to our shores. Today, while still relatively rare across Australia - from Perth's coastal suburbs to Brisbane's hinterland - Devon Rex cats have developed a devoted following among those lucky enough to discover their irresistible combination of unique looks and endearing personality.
Traits & Characteristics
Devon Rex characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Devon Rex cats are generally healthy little characters with lifespans of 9-15 years, but like all breeds, they have some specific health considerations worth knowing about. The most significant concern is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common heart disease in cats. Responsible Australian breeders should provide genetic testing results for breeding cats, so always ask to see these when you're looking for your Devon Rex kitten.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is another hereditary condition that can affect the breed, causing cysts in the kidneys that eventually lead to kidney failure. Again, genetic testing can identify carriers, so reputable breeders should have this information available. You'll also want to watch for hip dysplasia and luxating patella - conditions affecting joint health that can cause mobility issues as your cat ages.
Some Devon Rex lines can also carry a gene for Devon Rex myopathy (or spasticity), a hereditary muscle condition that can cause progressive weakness. This is a recessive genetic condition, and reputable breeders screen their cats to avoid producing affected kittens. Always ensure your breeder provides comprehensive health clearances for their breeding stock.
Australian Seasonal Care Considerations:
During our scorching summer months, particularly in places like Adelaide or western Sydney where temperatures soar above 35°C, Devon Rex cats need extra attention. Their fine, curly coat doesn't provide much insulation, so ensure they have access to air conditioning or cool tiles to lie on. Fresh water should always be available, and watch for signs of overheating like excessive panting or lethargy.
Winter brings the opposite challenge, especially in Canberra or the Blue Mountains where morning temperatures can drop to 5°C or below. These cats absolutely love warmth and will seek out heating vents, sunny windowsills, or your warm bed. Consider a heated cat bed for particularly cold nights, and don't be surprised if your Devon Rex becomes your personal hot water bottle during Melbourne's changeable winter weather.
In humid coastal areas like the Sunshine Coast or northern NSW, ensure good ventilation to prevent skin issues, as their unique coat can trap moisture and oils. Regular health checks with your local vet are essential, and consider pet insurance early - specialty breeds can have higher veterinary costs.
Devon Rex cats are known for their hearty appetites and genuine enthusiasm for food - so much so that you'll need to keep an eye on portion sizes to prevent them from becoming little food thieves or developing weight issues. These active cats typically do well on high-quality, meat-based diets that match their life stage, whether that's kitten, adult, or senior formulations.
Feed your Devon Rex measured portions two to three times daily rather than free-feeding. Kittens usually need three to four smaller meals throughout the day, while adults generally do well with morning and evening feeds. If your cat tends to gobble their food too quickly (a common trait in food-loving Devon Rex cats), consider using a slow feeder bowl or puzzle feeder to make mealtimes more engaging and prevent regurgitation.
Their sensitive digestive systems mean you should choose premium Australian pet food brands that meet nutritional standards, avoiding frequent diet changes that might upset their stomachs. Many Devon Rex cats do particularly well on foods designed for active breeds, given their high energy levels and playful nature.
Australian Feeding Considerations:
During Perth's hot summers or Brisbane's humid months, ensure fresh water is always available and consider adding wet food to their diet to boost hydration. In cooler regions like Tasmania or the ACT, you might find your Devon Rex needs slightly more calories during winter months to maintain their body temperature.
Keep an eye on treats and table scraps - these food-motivated cats can quickly become overweight if you're not careful. Store food securely, as many Devon Rex owners in Australia report their cats becoming accomplished pantry raiders! If you're dealing with rental property restrictions or apartment living, discuss feeding schedules with your property manager, as some buildings have specific rules about pet feeding areas.
The Devon Rex's unique coat is both a blessing and requires some special attention. Their curly, soft fur lacks the typical guard hairs that most cats have, giving them that distinctive suede-like texture that feels amazing to touch. However, this also means their skin can become oily more easily than other breeds, requiring occasional baths to keep them comfortable and healthy.
Most Devon Rex cats only need bathing every few weeks or when their coat starts feeling greasy to the touch. Use a gentle, cat-safe shampoo and lukewarm water - many of these cats actually enjoy their bath time, which makes the process much easier! Between baths, a gentle rub with a slightly damp cloth can help remove any loose fuzz and keep their coat looking its best.
Their large, prominent ears need regular attention too. Check and clean them weekly with a cat-safe ear cleaning solution, as their open ear structure can collect dirt and wax more readily than cats with smaller ears. During Adelaide's dusty summer months or Sydney's pollen season, you might need to clean them more frequently.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Short and fine with a unique curly texture lacking guard hairs
- Coat Colours: Almost any colour imaginable including black, white, brown, tortoiseshell, calico, and tabby patterns
- Coat Patterns: Solid colours, tabby stripes, tortoiseshell, calico, and various pointed patterns
- Hypoallergenic: Better for allergy sufferers due to lower shedding, though no cat is truly 100% hypoallergenic
The good news for your furniture and black clothing is that Devon Rex cats shed significantly less than most breeds. Their fine, curly fur doesn't stick to upholstery as much as typical cat hair, making them excellent choices for Melbourne apartment dwellers or anyone who prefers less vacuuming. During seasonal changes, particularly in Canberra's distinct autumn and spring periods, you might notice slightly more loose fur, but it's still minimal compared to other breeds.
Here's where Devon Rex cats truly shine - they're absolutely brilliant learners who genuinely enjoy training sessions! These cats have inherited their ancestor Kirlee's love of performing, and many Australian owners report teaching their Devon Rex to fetch, come when called, and even perform tricks like high-fives or walking on a lead around their Brisbane backyard.
Start with positive reinforcement training using treats and praise. Devon Rex cats respond wonderfully to clicker training, which works particularly well for teaching them to stay off kitchen benches (good luck with that one!) or come when called during those frantic pre-work moments in Sydney's inner west. Their high intelligence means they pick up routines quickly, but it also means they can get bored easily without sufficient mental stimulation.
Puzzle feeders, interactive toys, and rotating toy selection will keep your Devon Rex mentally engaged, especially important for Perth families where outdoor time might be limited during scorching summer days. These cats excel at problem-solving games and will happily spend time working out how to extract treats from puzzle toys while you're working from home.
Enrichment Essentials:
Create vertical climbing spaces with cat trees or wall-mounted shelves - Devon Rex cats are excellent jumpers and love surveying their territory from height. This is particularly important in Melbourne apartments or Adelaide townhouses where floor space might be limited. Provide plenty of interactive play sessions, especially during cooler morning and evening hours when Australian temperatures are more comfortable.
Social enrichment is crucial too. If you're often away for work, consider whether your Devon Rex might benefit from a feline companion. Many Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast families find that two Devon Rex cats entertain each other beautifully, reducing separation anxiety and destructive behaviours that can occur when these social cats are left alone for extended periods.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Devon Rex owner is someone who genuinely wants a cat that's more like a furry shadow than an independent pet. These cats suit families who work from home, retirees who enjoy constant companionship, or households where someone is usually around. If you're a FIFO worker or frequently travel for business, a Devon Rex might not be the best match unless you have other family members or pets to provide company.
They're absolutely brilliant for families with children, particularly those with kids aged 5 and up who can appreciate their playful but gentle nature. Devon Rex cats thrive in active households - whether that's a young family in Canberra's newer suburbs juggling school runs and weekend sports, or empty nesters in Perth's coastal areas who have time for interactive play and training sessions.
Apartment dwellers across Australia's capital cities will find Devon Rex cats adapt well to smaller spaces, provided they have plenty of vertical territory and mental stimulation. However, check your rental agreement and body corporate rules first - some buildings have restrictions on pet ownership or require additional bonds.
Housing Considerations:
These cats work well in both apartments and houses, though they're definitely indoor cats given their rare appearance and friendly nature that might make them targets for theft. If you're renting in Melbourne's competitive market or Sydney's inner suburbs, factor in pet bond costs and potential limitations on your rental options.
Devon Rex cats are perfect for people who want an interactive companion rather than a decorative pet. They suit owners who don't mind a cat that will "help" with cooking dinner, supervise home office work, and generally be involved in every aspect of daily life. If you prefer a more independent feline or travel frequently, consider a different breed - these cats genuinely need their people around.
Interesting facts about the Devon Rex
Interesting Fact
All Devon Rex cats worldwide can trace their ancestry back to a single cat named Kirlee, discovered in Devon, England in 1959
Interesting Fact
Despite looking similar to Cornish Rex cats, they're completely unrelated breeds with different genetic mutations causing their curly coats
Interesting Fact
They're often called the "Poodle of the cat world" due to their curly coat and dog-like personalities
Interesting Fact
Many Devon Rex cats genuinely enjoy water and don't mind bath time, unlike most feline breeds
FAQ
Absolutely! Devon Rex cats make wonderful pets for the right families. They're incredibly affectionate, playful, and gentle with children and other pets. However, they do need lots of attention and don't handle being left alone well, so they're best suited to households where someone is usually home.
While no cat is truly 100% hypoallergenic, Devon Rex cats can be a better choice for some allergy sufferers. They shed significantly less than most breeds and produce less dander due to their unique coat structure. However, individual reactions vary, so spend time with the breed before committing.
Devon Rex kittens from reputable Australian breeders typically cost between $1,500-$3,000 AUD, depending on the breeder's location and the kitten's lineage. They're quite rare in Australia, so expect to join waiting lists and potentially travel interstate to find a quality breeder.
Despite their similar curly coats, they're completely different breeds with separate genetic mutations. Devon Rex cats have rounder faces, larger ears set lower on their heads, and slightly shorter, softer coats. Their personalities are also distinct, with Devon Rex being more people-oriented and social.
Yes, they adapt well to apartments provided they have plenty of vertical space, mental stimulation, and companionship. Check your lease agreement and body corporate rules first, as some buildings have pet restrictions. Their low-shedding coat and moderate vocal levels make them good apartment cats.
They need gentle brushing weekly and occasional baths every 3-4 weeks when their coat becomes oily. Their large ears should be cleaned weekly, and regular nail trims are important. Overall, their grooming needs are moderate and quite manageable for most Australian families.
They're excellent family cats! Devon Rex are patient and gentle with children, often becoming their favourite playmate. They're also great with other pets and adapt well to busy family schedules. Just ensure they're not left alone for extended periods during school and work hours.
They need extra care during temperature extremes. In hot climates like Perth or Brisbane, provide air conditioning and cool surfaces. In cooler regions like Melbourne or Canberra, they'll need warm sleeping areas and may seek out heating sources. Their fine coat offers limited temperature regulation compared to other breeds.