Devon Rex

Because of the nature of its coat, the Devon Rex cat can be prone to yeast infections of the skin that can cause ear problems, greasy deposits on the skin and itching. Rexes can also be prone to baldness, a disorder known as hypotrichosis. Because of the back-crossing needed to establish the breed's initial gene pool, there have in the past been genetic spasticity problems associated with the breed (known as Devon Rex myopathy), but careful breeding has all but eliminated this now.

The Devon Rex’s coat is not particularly protective or waterproof, so this is a cat to keep indoors, or in a sheltered secured garden or cat-run where they will appreciate the extra space, and will be kept safe from thieves - and of course from getting themselves into trouble with their curious and people-oriented nature!

The Devon Rex could be considered an arboreal species, they love to climb, to be up high, to rest up high – do not be surprised to find your Devon Rex draped along the curtain rail or along the top of a door! Provide plenty of safe and appropriate opportunity to climb by building cat trees and walkways, hammocks and shelves for them to prowl along and laze upon. 

Clever and curious, the Devon Rex will benefit from fun cat games such as hunting food from food dispensing toys, and from solving puzzle toys, as well as interactive chase-play with you. 

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry cat food recipes. Find out more about cat feeding guidelines with our article.

The Devon Rex's wavy coat needs the minimum amount of care. Rubber brushes may be used to help remove dead hair, but caution should be exercised as excess use may permanently damage the hair. Devon Rex cats need to have their ears cleaned regularly to remove waxy deposits that may lead to ear infection. Cats with paler coat colours may require sun block on the ears in the summer months. 

Remember that a greasy coat can be evidence that your cat is no longer attempting to groom themselves, which can be indicative of poor or failing health. As with all cats, Devon Rex benefit from regular vaccination, parasite control and an annual veterinary cat health check. 

The Devon Rex would suit the adult family home or those with older children who can respect a cat’s space. They will enjoy a busy and active household as long as they can be involved and ‘help’, and they do not suit homes where they will be left alone for long periods.