Group Classification: shorthair
Country of Origin: Britain
Date of Origin: 1960
Weight (M): 6-9 lbs.
Weight (F): 5-7 lbs.
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

History
Beryl Cox found a curly coated cat in Devon, England in 1960. Mated with a local female, the litter was normal with one curly coated kitten (Kirlee). Inbreeding was necessary to produce more curly coats since this trait is a recessive gene. This mutation is different than the one that produces the wave of the Cornish Rex. In fact, when a Devon Rex was bred to a Cornish Rex (Cox tried this), the litter all had straight hair.

General Description
Devons have been nicknamed'poodle cats' because of their curly coats. But it is their oversized ears and large eyes that make them look unique to the point of other-worldly. In fact, it was Devon Rex cats that were chosen as pets for the movie version of Frank Herbert's "Dune." Their elfin quality films so well that the breed was also chosen as the cat stuck in a tree that was rescued by Superman in the 1984 film.

Colors
All colors and patterns including pointed patterns.

Coat
Shorthaired and curly.

Notable Features
Curly hair, large ears and big eyes with an overall elfin quality.

Health and Care
The coat of the Devon Rex needs equal oil distribution to look its best, but too much oil will dull their coat. Owners will determine their individual cat's needs through trial and error. Some need hydrating lotions or moisturing shampoos to supplement their natural oil production. Others need nothing more than a gentle stroking with hand or chamois to distribute oil evenly throughout their coat. Never blow dry a Devon Rex after a bath as heat and brushing may remove the curl. Simply towel dry for best results.

The early inbreeding necessary to perpetuate the breed led to a genetic spasticity syndrome in some cats. It is vital to obtain your Devon Rex from a reputable breeder.

Resources
The Rex Cat Association at www.rexcatassociation.co.uk

Devon Rex Breed Club at www.devons.com/drbc