by Angie Pollock

Created on: July 29, 2009   Last Updated: February 27, 2010

The second variety of Rex Cat breed discovered in the UK, the Devon Rex appeared in 1960 in Devon, England. Some literature has the lineage dating back to 1959 to a feral tom cat known to roam an abandoned tin mine near Buckfastleigh in Devon, England. Many tried and failed to capture the elusive yet unique appearing tom cat.

History

Miss Beryl Cox who lived near the mines had seen the curly-coated tom on many occasions. By chance, a stray tortie-and-white female had befriended Miss Cox and gave birth to a litter of kittens near her garden. Upon inspection of the litter of kittens, Miss Cox discovered an infant tom cat with the same unique coat of the wild tom cat that wandered near the mines. The baby tom cat, taken in and lovingly cared for by Miss Cox was named 'Kirlee", and is dubbed the founding father of the Devon Rex cat breed.

In 1950, the Cornish Rex had been discovered in Cornwall, England. This cat was originally called the English Rex until the discovery of the Devon Rex. Miss Cox, having seen pictures of the Cornish Rex, contacted those who were developing the Cornish Rex breed. Kirlee was bred with several female descendants of Kallibunker, the Cornish Rex discovered in 1950. The futile attempts did not produce any curly-coated cats concluding that the recessive genes in Kirlee and the Cornish Rex cats were different. Ultimately, in-breeding between Kirlee and his daughters did result in positive results and the Devon Rex breed deemed secure. Kirlee lived for 10 years, having lost his life in a road accident in 1970.

Characteristics

The Devon Rex has a thin coat with a wavy textured coat, curled whiskers and eyebrows. The back legs are long while the front legs are shorter and somewhat bowed. The head is wedge-shaped and the ears are set low with tufts at the tips that resemble the lynx' ears. The unique head shape has given this cat the nickname "Pixie Cat". The chest will appear quite broad. All color coats, combinations, and patterns are accepted by both the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) and Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).

Although the coat has a similar appearance to other Rex breeds, the Devon Rex clearly has its own unique gene that creates its wavy coat. The coat is somewhat harsher than other Rex breeds and has few guard hairs amid the plentiful down hairs. Considered a mid-sized breed, the Devon averages six to ten pounds, females weighing less.

Personality

The most common terms identified with this breed include friendly, amusing, intelligent, inquisitive, and highly affectionate. The extraordinary climbing abilities of the Devon Rex have led to the breed being referred to as "a monkey in cat's clothing". Breeders, owners, and experts have all suggested that the Devon Rex has several dog-like characteristics including tail wagging, retrieving, and following its owner.

Care

Like with many other cat breeds, the Devon Rex is low-maintenance. Several myths have surrounded this breed including they are hypo-allergenic and they do not shed. A Devon Rex will shed like any animal that has fur but it is far less than long-haired breeds. Some individuals who have allergies to cats can tolerate the Devon Rex but this depends upon the allergy. Those with cat allergies should arrange to handle a Devon Rex before purchasing one to avoid any surprises. Due to their short coat, this breed should be kept indoors especially during the winter months.

The cost of a Devon Rex varies depending upon its lineage but prices typically start around $800. This breed is extremely popular for the show ring and as a faithful companion. Those interested in a unique cat breed with extraordinary characteristics should consider the Devon Rex.

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