Devon Rex: Personality, Care, and Price of This Unique Breed
Devon Rex cat
Are you looking for a cat that really stands out? Big ears, a curly coat and a look more like a pixie than a classic house cat? Then the Devon Rex may be just what you're looking for. This striking pedigree cat has become wildly popular in recent years - in countries such as Poland, Sweden and the U.S., but its fan base is also growing in the Netherlands.
Yet the Devon Rex is not just a "pretty face. Behind its unique appearance hides a cat with a distinct character and a number of characteristics that you as an owner should take into account. In this blog you can read everything you need to know before falling in love with this special cat.
Appearance: the Devon Rex is anything but average
One look is all it takes: a Devon Rex cat is instantly recognizable. Large, low-set ears, a short muzzle, huge eyes and fur that seems to wave rather than lie. The whole look has something otherworldly about it - some people call it a pixie, others an alien cat. Whatever you think of it: the Devon Rex stands out!
The coat is short, velvety and curly. Due to a genetic mutation (not the same as in the Cornish Rex!), the hair curls inward, creating a wavy pattern all over the body. The whiskers are also curled or even absent. The Devon Rex comes in all colors and patterns - from white to black, as long as the hair is curly.
Yet that unusual appearance also raises questions: is this a nude cat? Does it look like a Sphynx? The answer is no. The Devon Rex has short, soft fur and is not a nude cat, although it sometimes has bald spots - especially on the belly or neck. This is normal in this breed and need not be a sign of disease.
Character of the Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is not only a striking cat to behold - its behavior is anything but standard. These cats are extremely social, energetic and smart. They follow their owner like a shadow, preferring to crawl on your shoulder or sleep on top of your laptop. The Devon Rex is playful, learns tricks easily and is known to like fetching more than a dog.
This breed also goes well with children or other pets, as long as he gets enough attention. Because that is important: the Devon Rex is not a cat to leave home alone all day. He quickly gets bored, can get frustrated or even show demolition behavior. So for working owners, it is wise to consider a buddy - or provide plenty of interaction, toys and a safe space with plenty of stimuli.
Disadvantages of the Devon Rex
As cute and special as the Devon Rex is, this breed also has its downsides. It's important to know those honestly before falling in love.
First, health. Because of the relatively small breeding stock, certain hereditary diseases occur in the Devon Rex. Consider muscle diseases such as myopathy, which can occur at a young age, or skin conditions such as atopy and mold sensitivity. Heart defects (such as HCM) are also known in some lines.
In addition, the coat requires some attention. The Devon Rex is prone to fat accumulation on the skin, especially in hot weather or with insufficient grooming. Regular cleaning with a wet cloth prevents skin problems. And because of the short coat and large ears, these cats are sensitive to cold - so always provide a warm place in the house.
Care and feeding with preferences
The Devon Rex is generally easy to handle, but in terms of grooming, you have to be just a little more careful. That short, curly coat doesn't protect well from cold or sun, so it must be checked and groomed regularly. Fortunately, this does not mean brushing - on the contrary: the coat is so fragile that combing is not even recommended.
When it comes to nutrition, the Devon Rex is known to be a voracious eater. Some owners even report that their cat is prone to gulping. A slow feeder can then provide a solution. In addition, choose high-quality cat food that fits the life stage: kitten, adult or senior. Pay attention to sensitive digestion, as the breed is prone to diarrhea or food intolerances.
Life expectancy and price
The Devon Rex reaches an average age of between 12 and 16 years. A healthy living environment, good nutrition and regular vet visits make a big difference. Because of the hereditary sensitivities, it is advisable to look for a reliable breeder who tests for HCM and muscular diseases, among others.
How much does a Devon Rex kitten cost? Expect to pay between €1,000 and €1,800 at a certified cattery. Be cautious: low prices may indicate a puppy mill or poor conditions. Also consider adopting a rescue cat through organizations such as Cattery D'tails.
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Difference from the Cornish Rex
Although they look somewhat similar outwardly, the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex are two completely different cat breeds. The Cornish Rex has a longer muzzle, a slimmer body and even shorter fur. They are also genetically unrelated: the curl in their coats is the result of two completely different mutations.
The Devon Rex looks rounder, friendlier and slightly more compact. In terms of character, they are both sociable, but the Devon Rex tends to be a bit more headstrong and playful.
Are Devon Rex cats hypoallergenic?
No, no cat is completely hypoallergenic. However, the Devon Rex may be more tolerable for some people with mild allergies. Because of its short, curly coat, it loses less hair and dander than the average cat. Still, this is no guarantee - being allergic to cats remains personal. Want to be sure? Spend a few hours with an adult Devon Rex before bringing one into your home.
Welke kattenbak past bij een Devon Rex?
Het korte antwoord: een bak die ook lichte katten herkent, rustig en tochtvrij staat en altijd schoon is. Dat zit zo:
- Ook lichte katten worden herkend. De Devon Rex is een tenger, licht ras. De gewichtssensoren van de Poopy detecteren katten al vanaf 1 kilo, dus ook een lichte Devon Rex wordt netjes herkend en de bak reinigt pas als hij eruit is.
- Zet hem stil en tochtvrij. Dit is een gevoelige kat met een dun, gekruld vachtje die snel last heeft van kou en tocht. Kies daarom een rustige, warme plek zonder tochtstroom voor de bak.
- Houd hem schoon, altijd. De Devon Rex is gesteld op hygiëne en mijdt een vieze bak. Een bak die niet elke dag geschept wordt gaat ruiken.
Die eisen samen verklaren waarom veel baasjes uitkomen bij een automatische kattenbak: die houdt de bak na elk bezoek schoon, zonder dat jij dagelijks hoeft te scheppen. De Poopy Nova Pro heeft een ruime trommel (geschikt voor katten van 1 tot 10 kilo, huishoudens tot 3 katten), pauzeert de reiniging zodra je kat op of in de bak stapt en sluit geurtjes luchtdicht op in het afvalcompartiment. En met 50 dagen proefpoepen ontdek je zonder risico of het bij jouw Devon Rex past: went het niet, dan krijg je je geld terug.
Eerst meer weten over hoe zo'n bak werkt, wat hij kost en waar je op let? Lees onze complete gids over automatische kattenbakken. En let bij dit ras extra op de vulling: een dun, gekruld vachtje en een gevoelige huid vragen om 99% stofvrij grit. Welke soorten dat bieden lees je in de kattenbakvulling-keuzegids.
