Breed Focus: Devon Rex

They wavy coat gives the Devon Rex its distinctive look. (Image Source)

The Devon Rex is a breed of cat that many people may not be familiar with as compared to other breeds. Their most distinctive trait is their wavy hair. Although they may not shed quite as much as some other cat breeds, they still have the potential to cause allergies in people. So if you are allergic to cats, this is likely not the breed for you.

 

They do come in a variety of different colors! (Image Source)

Overall the breed tends to be fairly active and smart. They will do best in a home that can set aside specific play time each day. They can also be trained to do many tricks! Even though they have a longer coat, they will not require regular haircuts. Gentle brushing will help alleviate any tangles, and a bath every few weeks may help prevent oils from building up on their skin but that is about all the care their hair coat will require.

 

They are very inquisitive and seem to be highly trainable. (Image Source)

As far as health conditions, there are only two that potential owners need to be aware of. One is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This is a heart condition that seems more prevalent in pure bred cats. It is essentially a thickening of the wall of the heart that makes it much less efficient at performing its job. There is no guarantee that cats will not develop this condition. Screening potential breeding stock and help but will not be 100%. If any cat does develop HCM (Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) it should be removed from the breeding stock immediately. The other condition is luxating patellas. This is where the knee cap is not always stable in the joint and can jiggle around a little. If the condition progresses to where the knee cap moves in and out of place, then surgical correction may be necessary.

 

This image really shows off their wavy coat. (Image Source)

If you are looking for a cat to be a great companion but also loves a more active life style, the Devon Rex could be a good fit for you! For more information on this breed, please visit the following website.