Devon Rex – magic in a feline version

📜 Origin and history of the breed

The Devon Rex is a breed of cat whose history begins in the 1960s in Devon, southern England. It all began with an unusual kitten born to a stray mother – he had curly fur and large, unusually set ears. Intrigued, his owner decided to keep him and begin breeding him – thus, the first representative of the breed, named Kirlee, was born.

Initially, the Devon Rex was thought to be a variation of the Cornish Rex—another breed with a wavy coat—but subsequent genetic testing confirmed that the mutation responsible for the Devon's curly coat was entirely different. This led to the breed's independent development.

Thanks to its unique appearance—resembling a cross between an elf and a bat—and its warm and friendly nature, the Devon Rex quickly won the hearts of cat lovers worldwide. It is now one of the most recognizable and beloved domestic cat breeds.

🧠 Character and temperament

The Devon Rex is a cat that will captivate you from the moment you purr. Although it looks like a magical creature from another world, it's actually an incredibly affectionate, sociable, and playful companion.

It is characterized by:

• extroverted personality – hates loneliness, loves to be in the center of events, always where his person is;

• intelligence and curiosity – learns new things quickly, opens cabinets, tries to get in everywhere he can;

• affection – loves cuddling, jumps on the lap, shoulders and even head of the caregiver;

• fun above all – he plays like a kitten even in adulthood, fetches, runs after a ball, catches peacock feathers.

This cat is constantly seeking interaction – with both people and other animals. He gets along well with children, other cats, and even dogs. His lively and warm personality makes him an ideal companion – even for the elderly or those working from home.

📏 Appearance and special features

The Devon Rex is unmistakable for any other breed. It's a cat of exceptional beauty that inspires admiration, and sometimes surprise—but always emotion.

• Build : slender but muscular, with long limbs and an arched back;

• Head : short, triangular with strongly defined cheekbones;

• Ears : huge, wide at the base, set low – resembling bat wings;

• Eyes : large, oval, often intensely colored;

• Coat : short, wavy or curly – soft as velvet, without undercoat;

• Whiskers : often broken or shortened – this is a characteristic feature of the breed.

Devon coat colors vary greatly, from classic solid colors and brindle to tortoiseshell and colorpoint. Each Devon is unique.

🩺 Health and prevention

Although the Devon Rex is considered a relatively healthy breed, its specific structure and lack of undercoat require a bit more attention from its owner.

Most common problems:

• sensitive skin – prone to irritation, rashes and allergies;

• tendency to excessively oily skin – requires gentle cleansing;

• dental problems – frequent dental check-ups and oral hygiene;

• hereditary heart diseases (cardiomyopathies) – regular echocardiograms are recommended;

• easy heat loss – Devon gets cold easily, so it is worth providing him with a warm bed and avoiding drafts.

Prevention:

• regular veterinary check-ups,

• daily observation of the condition of the skin and ears,

• a balanced, high-quality diet,

• appropriate amount of exercise and mental stimulation.

🛁 Care

Although it may seem that the Devon Rex does not require any grooming due to its short fur, its skin does require special care:

• baths : once every few weeks – preferably using gentle shampoos for cats;

• ear cleaning : large ears collect a lot of dust and wax – they should be gently cleaned once a week;

• rubbing the skin : especially in areas prone to oiliness (neck, nape, groin);

• claws and teeth : trimming every 2–3 weeks and daily oral hygiene – e.g. enzymatic toothpaste or dental chews.

🧠 Training and fun

The Devon Rex is a little acrobat – fast, agile, and incredibly resourceful. He loves interactive toys, tunnels, scratching posts, and even… fetch.

• learning tricks : Devon is eager to cooperate – he can be taught to sit, give a high five or come when called;

• olfactory games : they perfectly stimulate his sharp mind;

• obstacle course : built of shelves and furniture, it is a real paradise for Devon;

• daily routine : important for his emotional stability – Devon does not cope well with chaos.

🏡 Devon Rex at home

This cat appreciates the presence of its owner the most. It loves being "held," sleeping under a blanket, and jumping on a shoulder like a budgie. It thrives in apartments, even small ones, as long as it's provided with adequate attention, toys, and warm places to rest.

He's a wonderful companion with children. He often makes friends with dogs. He usually gets along great with other cats, as long as they're not too dominant.

It is not recommended to leave your Devon alone for long hours - it can lead to stress, anxiety and frustration.

💤 The perfect place to sleep

😴 Sleep and relaxation – as important as air

Devons love warmth, coziness, and soft fabrics. That's why it's important to provide them with a unique place to relax. Petto's Fluffy collection of beds is ideal – fluffy, enveloping, and providing a sense of security and comfort. This is the place where your Devon will feel most at home – like a little elf in his magical lair.

👉 Check out the Osaka Fluffy bed – perfect for a Devon Rex

🧺 Everyday care

Everyday life with Devon is joy and tenderness, but also the need for systematic care:

• warm clothes in winter (yes – some Devon girls love them!),

• safe scratching posts and shelves,

• logic toys,

• Takai steps from Petto to avoid injuries when jumping on furniture.

🚗 Traveling with a Devon Rex

Devon's sensitive nature requires comfort and a sense of security while traveling. The Oi car seat from Petto is the ideal solution – soft, safe, stress-reducing, and draft-proof. Thanks to its raised sides and soft interior, the seat allows Devon to travel in peace and warmth – just the way he likes it best.

👉 See the Oi car seat – travel with Devon in peace and style