The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Distinctive Feature

Devon Rex

Curly coat with oversized ears and a compact frame

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
High
Vocality
High
Health sensitivity
Medium
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Low
Temperature sensitivity
Medium

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Curly
Coat length
Short

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want a playful, cuddly cat with a very short, wavy coat

Not ideal

  • Want a hands-off cat that's content with minimal daily interaction

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often companion-leaning and perch-focused—likes climbing, shoulder-level hangouts, and being in the mix.

Handling & social style

Typically very people-forward and happy to be held, but can be sensitive to cold. Gentle, warm handling tends to suit them.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Similar rex baseline, often with more emphasis on the head/ear profile, so practical care is usually ear/skin awareness rather than coat brushing.

Environment & space

A stable indoor temperature and predictable resting spots matter more than a complex setup.

Daily routine

Minimal brushing; routine ear checks and occasional skin checks are often the useful habit.

Health sensitivities

Line-dependent—ask what the breeder tracks and how they respond if a pattern shows up (not just “we’ve never had issues”).

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

United Kingdom

Background

Developed in the U.K. from a natural rex mutation, then refined into a breed with a very short, wavy coat and big-featured “pixie” look. Temperament often leans playful and people-attached.