The Devon Rex cat is a breed of curly-haired cat that originates from England and first appeared in the 1960s. So, what makes this type of cat special?
Let’s explore the origin, characteristics, and care of the Devon Rex cat through this article on DailyPets.net.
Origin of the Devon Rex Cat
The Devon Rex cat originated in the United Kingdom in 1960 and was a newly discovered breed. When you look at them, you’ll immediately think of cats with large, curly eyes, and their ancestors were wild cats living in mining areas. You could spot Devon Rex cats when passing through Buckfastleigh, Devon, in England.
Common Coat Colors of Devon Rex Cats
Golden and black are the two most commonly bred coat colors for Devon Rex cats and the most popular.
Physical Characteristics of Devon Rex Cats If you come across a cat with a slender face, large round eyes of various colors such as black, blue, and gold, big ears, long legs, and soft, smooth, curly fur, then you’ve found a Devon Rex cat. A large Devon Rex cat can weigh between 2 to 5 kilograms and live up to 15 years.
Personality Traits of Devon Rex Cats
Devon Rex cats are extremely agile and playful, unlike the British Shorthair cat breed (also originating from England). They don’t like to sit still and are always curious about everything around them. This is why, after a tiring day, having a Devon Rex cat can help you quickly regain your spirit. Devon Rex cats are also very sociable; they love to play with children and are friendly and outgoing with everyone, including other pets like dogs.
Reasons to Adopt a Devon Rex Cat
The main reason to adopt a Devon Rex cat is their extreme loyalty. Being around them, you’ll feel like you have an additional child. Devon Rex cats are affectionate, energetic, playful, and enjoy being pampered. If you’re considering adopting a cat, this breed is worth considering.
Caring for Devon Rex Cats
Food for Devon Rex Cats
Despite being an exotic breed, Devon Rex cats are easy to feed. You can give them chicken, beef, or cat pate (but don’t make it too salty as it can cause fungal infections and fur loss). Provide them with enough water every day. You can also consider various commercial cat food options available online.
Grooming for Devon Rex Cats
Cats, like us, need to be cleaned. You may not need to bathe them frequently, but you can use pet shampoo designed for cats when you do. The fur of Devon Rex cats is very soft and sensitive to weather, so you should brush them regularly. Spend time with your cat and take them for regular check-ups.
Common Health Issues in Devon Rex Cats
- Genetic heart problems
- Skin inflammation (Malassezia), which can cause itching
- Weak hip joints and misalignment
- Other skin issues, such as pigmentary keratitis, oily skin, and infections
- Cat muscle disease, which causes stiffness and fatigue
- Treatment involves antifungal medications, prednisolone, and vaccinations.
Important Tips for Caring for Devon Rex Cats
Be cautious about their diet as it directly affects their health. Choose a brush with a rounded tip to avoid skin damage when grooming. Devon Rex cats don’t need frequent baths; they use a soft towel for cleaning their ears and nose, avoiding cotton swabs. Keep their living environment clean to prevent skin diseases and infections.
When caring for a cat, take them to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and vaccinations. Cats aged 6-8 months should be vaccinated and re-vaccinated when their health is weaker.
Devon Rex Cat price
The price of a Devon Rex cat can vary depending on several factors, including the cat’s age, pedigree, color, breeder reputation, and the region where you’re looking to buy or adopt the cat. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $2,500 or more for a Devon Rex kitten from a reputable breeder.
It’s essential to purchase from a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their cats. Be cautious of significantly lower prices, as they may be a sign of an unscrupulous breeder or potential health issues with the cat.
Additionally, you might find Devon Rex cats available for adoption at local animal shelters or through breed-specific rescue organizations. Adoption fees for rescue cats are typically lower than the cost of buying from a breeder and often include spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and sometimes microchipping.
Always ensure you are dealing with a reputable source, whether a breeder or an adoption agency, to provide a loving and responsible home for your Devon Rex cat.
