Devon Rex
Overview
A playful, pixie-faced breed with a soft wavy coat — mischievous, clingy and often described as “monkey-like”.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Devon Rex is devoted lap cat and good with children. They tend to be moderately chatty and needs constant company. As with any cat, give them space to retreat, teach children to handle them gently, and introduce them to a new home calmly.
Energy & play
A Devon Rex is generally high energy. They need plenty of daily play, climbing and enrichment — wand toys, puzzle feeders and tall cat trees help burn off that energy and prevent boredom.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is wash-and-go and shedding is minimal. The coat is generally easy to care for; an occasional brush keeps it tidy and cuts down loose hair. All cats benefit from regular nail checks and a clean, quiet place to groom themselves.
Feeding considerations
Cats are obligate carnivores, so a Devon Rex should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced cat food appropriate for its life stage — this provides essential nutrients like taurine that cats can only get from animal products. Portion to your cat’s ideal body weight and activity level to avoid weight gain, and provide plenty of fresh water. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
Pros
- +Extremely affectionate and playful — loves to perch on shoulders and laps
- +Fine, wavy coat sheds very little and needs minimal grooming
Things to consider
- –Demands lots of attention and dislikes being left on its own
- –High energy and curiosity mean it can get into mischief
Is a Devon Rex right for you?
A Devon Rex tends to be needs constant company and devoted lap cat. That makes them best suited to a home where they won’t be left alone for long stretches — a companion cat or a busier household can help. If you want a cuddly, people-focused companion, this could be a good match.
Kit that suits a Devon Rex
Everyday essentials for a happy cat:
Helpful tools
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
Are Devon Rexes good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide they are tolerant and sociable in a family home. Always teach children to handle cats gently and give the cat space to retreat.
Are Devon Rexes affectionate?
Devoted lap cat. Devon Rexs typically love close company and lap time.
Are Devon Rexes vocal?
Moderately chatty. They are moderately chatty.
How much grooming does a Devon Rex need?
Wash-and-go; shedding is minimal. The coat is generally easy to care for with the occasional brush.
Can Devon Rexes be left alone?
Needs constant company. They strongly prefer company and can become stressed or lonely if left for long periods — a feline companion or a less empty house suits them better.
Are Devon Rexes energetic or playful?
High energy. They need plenty of daily play, climbing and enrichment to stay happy.