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Devon Rex
Devon Rex
Origin
England
Size
Medium Breed
Ideal Space
Apartment
Ideal Weather
18º-24ºC
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Cost of buying
₹ 60,000 - ₹ 1,20,000
Top 5 Traits
Playful
Curious
Friendly
Affectionate
Energetic
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 2,800 - ₹ 4,200
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 27 Jun 2025
Introduction to the Devon Rex
Devon Rex is a curly-haired, quirky cat which emerged in 1960 in Devon, England.
A stray cat gave birth to a curly kitten called Kirlee, and he became the founding cat of the Devon Rex breed. People assumed that he was a descendant of the Cornish Rex, but the tests revealed that he had curly fur because of a different gene.
Kirlee gave rise to all the Devon Rex cats today. These cats have pixie-shaped faces, big ears, wavy coats, and are adorable due to their playfulness and funny faces.
How Long Do Devon Rex Cats Live?
The Devon Rex cat has an average lifespan of 12-15 years, but can reach an amazing 20 years with good care.
Devon Rex Temperament and Personality
Devon Rex cats are:
- These cats are friendly and loving.
- They are intelligent yet mischievous
- They are good with kids and fellow pets
- They are known for their dog-like loyalty
They adore attention and will tend to follow you around the house.
Devon Rex Exercise Needs
Devon Rex cats are full of energy and need daily play.
- 20–30 minutes of play each day
- Use toys like feather wands and puzzle feeders
- Offer cat trees, shelves, or climbing walls
- Teach tricks—they’re smart and eager to learn
Boredom can lead to mischief, so keep them entertained.
Characteristics
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Shedding amount
Negligible
Frequent
Compatibility with other cats
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Prey Drive
Low
High
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
Devon Rex’s Price Guide
Cost of buying
₹ 60,000 - ₹ 1,20,000
The Devon Rex prices depend upon coat type and lineage. In India, the price falls somewhere between ₹ 60,000 - ₹ 1,20,000.
Similar Breeds to the Devon Rex
Shop or Adopt a Devon Rex: Make the Right Choice!
Responsible shopping will make sure that ethical breeding is taking place, while adopting a Devon Rex will give a loving home to a cat that needs it. Pick based on your ability to keep up with their gentle temperament, grooming needs, and lifespan.
Best Practices for Shopping or Adopting a Devon Rex
- Select a good breeder or adoption centre.
- Get health screenings for heart disease and dental problems.
- Observe temperament and socialization levels.
- Vaccination, deworming and medical history should be checked.
- Offer a quiet, reasonably comfortable indoor environment.
- Prevent obesity by maintaining a balanced diet.
- They need to be groomed regularly to manage their dense coat.
- Always ensure you keep routine vet visits as a commitment to lifelong care.
Nutrition Care for the Devon Rex
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,000
Calories per day
Kittens: 250 kcal
Adults: 300 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Fats
Carbohydrates
Vitamins
Minerals
Amino Acids (Taurine, Arginine, etc.)
Essential Fatty Acids
Fiber
List of foods
Dry kibble
Wet canned food
Chicken (cooked or raw)
Turkey
Tuna
Salmon
Eggs (cooked)
Plain yogurt (no added sugar)
- They require high quality protein for the maintenance of muscle.
- Healthy fats support energy levels and a shiny coat.
- Immunity and joint health are strengthened with the help of essential nutrients.
- Taurine is important for heart and vision health.
- Wet food helps in hydration and urinary tract health.
- It is best to avoid low quality foods to prevent obesity and digestion problems.
- A balanced diet of wet food, lean meats and supplements is vital for overall well being.
Feeding Guidelines for Devon Rex Cats
Kittens (Up to 12 Months): Use kitten food that is high in protein and fat, and feed 3-4 small meals a day.
Adults (1–7 Years): Feed twice a day using balanced adult cat food that is high in protein.
Seniors (7+ Years): Switch to senior cat formulas that also support joints. Offer smaller, more frequent meals for ease in digestion.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Best Foods for Devon Rex Cats
Devon Rex cats do well on food that’s:
- Highly rich in meats like chicken, turkey, or fish. Meat provides essential proteins that help in muscle strength and provide energy.
- Low in fillers like corn or wheat. This helps your cat avoid digestive issues and unnecessary weight gain.
- Easy to digest. Great for cats that have a sensitive stomach or suffer from food sensitivities.
- Moist or wet to prevent dehydration. Wet foods support both kidneys and urinary health by boosting water intake.
Many cat parents go for premium active-breed formulas or vet-recommended brands.
Foods to Avoid for Devon Rex Cats
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Onions and Garlic
Caffeine
Chocolate
Alcohol
Bones
Raw Eggs
Grapes and Raisins
Xylitol
Don’t feed your Devon Rex:
- Dairy (they’re often lactose intolerant). Milk products can cause bloating, diarrhoea, and stomach discomfort.
- Onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, or alcohol. If your cat consumes even small amounts, it can prove to be highly toxic, which can even cause death
- Raw eggs or undercooked meat. These foods can pose a risk of salmonella or other harmful bacteria.
- High-carb dry foods with corn or wheat. It leads your cat to obesity and poor digestion.
- Foods with artificial flavours or preservatives. It often triggers allergies or long-term health problems.
These can upset their stomach or be toxic.
Healthcare for the Devon Rex
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 500 - ₹ 700
Common Health Issues
Upper Respiratory Infections
Dental Problems
Obesity
Fleas and Ticks
Skin Allergies
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Patellar Luxation
Gastrointestinal Issues
Activities
Play with Toys
Exploring
Climbing
Interactive Playtime
Sunbathing
Energy Level
High
Exercise routine
30 - 60 minutes
Recognising Stress
Hiding
Increased vocalization
Decreased appetite
Overgrooming
Changes in litter box behavior
Common Health Problems of Devon Rex Cats
Devon Rex cats are generally healthy but might be prone to some health conditions.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): A heart issue. It can be detected early by regular vet checkups.
- Hereditary myopathy: Kitten's muscular weakness. Look out for the symptoms such as wobbling or difficulty walking.
- Patellar luxation: Dislocated kneecap. May result in limping or skipping steps.
- Skin issues: Greasy skin, dandruff or infections. This can be controlled through occasional gentle cleaning.
- Dental problems: Sensitive gums and teeth. Either brush your cat’s teeth more often or schedule vet cleanings.
General Healthcare Tips for Devon Rex Cats
- Greasy skin, dandruff or infections. This can be controlled through occasional gentle cleaning.
- Brush their teeth weekly or give dental treats. This helps get their mouth clean and prevents any dental disease.
- Waxed ears should be cleaned once a week. Frequent cleaning prevents buildup and infections.
- As they get cold easily, keep them in warm places. Go for cosy bedding or pet safe sweaters.
- Monitor their weight- they should not be overfed. Devon Rex cats can easily gain weight without proper portions.
Senior Devon Rex Care
Older Devon Rex cats need:
- Cat food for senior pets with joints and heart support. Assists in coping with age-related requirements.
- Soft stairs or ramps that access beds or shelves. Minimises strains on joints and allows easy movement.
- Increased visits to the vet. Permits the timely identification of age-related concerns.
- A warm bed to sleep in, cold winds. Older cats are also more susceptible to the cold and require warm places.
- Light play keeps muscles strong. Light exercise will keep them active and busy.
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 Weeks
FVRCP (1st dose).
10-12 Weeks
FVRCP (2nd dose).
14-16 Weeks
FVRCP (3rd dose), Rabies (1st dose).
Adult
FVRCP (booster), Rabies (booster).
Annually
FVRCP (booster), Rabies (booster as required by law).
Devon Rex Grooming Routine
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 800 - ₹ 1,500
Shedding Level
Low Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Litter Box
Feeding
Grooming (for some breeds)
Hydration
Play and Exercise
Health Observation
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Low Shedding
Odourless
Prevents infections
Quality of life
Prevents Bad Breath
- Brushing – Weekly brushing is required for short haired Devon Rexes.
- Bathing – Only when necessary, using cat-friendly shampoo.
- Nail trimming – Every 3-4 weeks to prevent overgrowth.
- Ear cleaning – Regularly to prevent infections.
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Devon Rex cats hypoallergenic?
Not completely, but they work better for many allergy patients.
Why do Devon Rex cats feel warm to the touch?
Devon cats have a short, thin coat, which lets you feel more of their body heat.
Do Devon Rex cats need lots of attention?
Yes! They are social and do not prefer being left alone.
How often should I bathe a Devon Rex?
To control skin oil and keep it clean, every 4 weeks to 6 weeks.
