The Devon Rex is known for its remarkable appearance and curly coat. It is an active and energetic breed. Looking for an extroverted cat who can give you lots of attention and will follow you everywhere? Read on quickly!
Background of the Devon Rex
The Devon Rex originated naturally and is also called a natural wonder. In 1960, a wild cat with curly fur was spotted near Devon (Great Britain). The kitten was found in a litter. One of the kittens had very large ears and a curly coat. This was a cross between several wild cats and a tortoiseshell cat.
Appearance
The appearance of the Devon Rex is, as we said before, remarkable. Its head has a strange shape with the cheekbones clearly visible. If you look at the ears they are also large, which is why he is sometimes compared to a fairy. His nose is also very special, this is because the nose has a bit of a weird end. Its snout is short and has large whiskers. The eyes are very large and far apart, the neck is slender and the tail pointed and long. The Devon Rex has long, oval legs which allow it to jump incredibly high and perform its athletic manoeuvres on, for example, a bookcase or a cat tree for a Devon Rex
Coat
The Devon Rex has a full curly coat. Only at the neck, chest and belly, there is often less fur. With kittens, you often see that the coat is not yet fully grown and this comes with the development of the kitten. A Devon Rex with a good health has in general no bald spots present. The coat comes in almost every genetic colour or pattern. They can also vary in loose, shaggy and thin curls.
Character
Devon Rex are very loyal, loving and get along with almost everyone. They are intelligent cats that are interested in everything. The cat is very playful and loves games. Because of its intelligence, the Devon Rex can also be taught tricks. For example, you can consider throwing and retrieving toys. If you want to buy a Devon Rex keep in mind that the cat requires attention and has an affectionate nature. Despite his social and loving character, he will also be able to play mischievous pranks. This will happen especially when the cat is left alone for too long, the elf doesn’t like that.
Care
If you are considering taking a Devon Rex into your home, always make sure you take good care of him. If the cat is fit and comfortable in his skin, he will stay healthy longer. The coat is easy to maintain. Once every few weeks is enough, but be careful because of its sensitive and fragile coat. It is also important to check the teeth every week to prevent tartar. Besides the coat and teeth, it is also important to treat the eyes and ears. Always provide a clean litter box with the right amount of litter so your cat doesn’t go anywhere else. Always give your cat clean drinking water and good and healthy food.
Common diseases
Actually, every cat has a chance of genetic diseases. The Devon Rex is generally a strong breed, but the following diseases can occur:
Hypertrophic Cardiomypathy – A hereditary heart defect where the blood flow is reduced. Symptoms include loss of appetite, tightness in the chest and paralysis in the back legs.
Patellar Luxation – This is a condition where the kneecap can become loose. Because the Devon Rex jumps high and a lot, this can cause a wrong landing or in the development of the cat.
Myopathy – a hereditary muscle disease, you can recognize this by the strange way of walking and when he has his head down. Also if the cat does not digest its food well and has problems breathing.
If this happens, it is advisable to visit a vet immediately.
How old does a Devon Rex become?
A Devon Rex becomes approximately between 9 and 15 years old. This has of course everything to do with how healthy the cat is and possible disorders. The nutrition, exercise and attention you can influence. But your cat can always get unpleasant surprises which reduce its life expectancy. It is important to read up on it so you know what the Devon Rex expects from you.
Buying a Devon Rex
This cat breed will cost around €500. Sometimes they come from a rare litter and then the price may go up. For this, go to a recognised breeder who can help you further.
Disclaimer: Petrebels is not a vet or a behaviourist: all content, information and tips on this blog are meant to inspire you and are informative only. Does your cat have complaints or problems? Or do you have doubts about your cat’s health? Always go to the vet or a behaviourist.