Devon Rex
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- England
About the Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is a curly-haired breed originating from England. It has a short, medium-length body and a unique, curly coat.
Overview
The Devon Rex is a tall-eared, short-haired breed of cat that emerged in England during the late 1950s. The breed is known for its atypical appearance, with an oddly shaped head, large eyes, and the short and wavy coat.
Health
Hereditary myopathy is found in some Devon Rexes. It is caused by a genetic variant known as COLQ and it appears anytime from 3 to 23 weeks of age. Typically, there is a chance that the myopathy in the cats might stabilize, however, most of the time, the condition worsens and the Devon rex cats die from laryngospasm , after obstructing their larynx with food. The Devon Rex was found to be predisposed to feline atopic dermatitis in a retrospective study of cases of the disease. The Devon Rex is predisposed to congenital hypotrichosis and Malassezia dermatitis .
Origin
Beryl Cox came across a novel curly-coated kitten in Buckfastleigh , Devon in 1960 whom she decided to name Kirlee . Originally, Cox believed the cat''s gene to be related to the Cornish Rex which led to her breeding Kirlee with Cornish Rexes. However, when the queen gave birth the kittens all had straight coats, which led to the discovery that Kirlee had a different mutation than Cornish Rexes. Following this Cox began a breeding program to try to preserve Kirlee''s unique mutation.
Appearance
The Devon Rex is a very short haired breed with a medium build and a unique head type which gives the breed a ''pixie-like'' appearance. The head is short with a broad wedge and the brow curving to a flat skull. The eyes are large, set wide, and oval-shaped. Devon Rexes may have any eye colour. The ears are large and set wide apart with rounded tips. The coat is short, dense, soft, and curls inwards, giving it a waved or rippled effect. Some areas of the body such as the neck may lack enough fur for the wave/ripple effect. The whiskers and eyebrows are crinkled and twisted. Devon Rexes may come in any colour.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Devon Rex?
The Devon Rex is a tall-eared, short-haired breed of cat with an oddly shaped head, large eyes, and a short, wavy coat. They are known for their unique appearance and slender build. The breed's height and weight can vary, but they are generally a medium to large-sized cat.
Is the Devon Rex a good family cat?
As with any breed, the suitability of a Devon Rex as a family cat depends on individual circumstances. Generally, Devon Rexes are known for their affectionate and playful nature, making them a good fit for families with children who are gentle and respectful of cats.
What health problems do Devon Rexs have?
Devon Rexes are prone to hereditary myopathy, a genetic condition caused by the COLQ variant. This condition can lead to laryngospasm and death. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify affected cats. Responsible breeding practices aim to minimize the incidence of this condition.
How much does a Devon Rex kitten cost?
The cost of a Devon Rex kitten can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a Devon Rex kitten can cost between $600 to $1,200. It's essential to research reputable breeders and consider the long-term costs of owning a cat.