Devon Rex Cat
The pixie cat — enormous bat ears, wavy curls, and an alien-chic look that hides a clownish, monkey-like personality. #5 CFA breed. Those cheekbones, those crinkly whiskers, that coat that feels like crushed velvet. Complete guide: why the Devon Rex curl gene is COMPLETELY DIFFERENT from the Cornish Rex, the hereditary myopathy, and why they're called "monkey cats" for a reason.
📋 Breed Overview
📖 About the Devon Rex — Kirlee the Curly Kitten (1960)
The Devon Rex originated from a single curly-coated feral kitten named Kirlee, found in a tin mine in Devon, England, in 1960. When bred to a Cornish Rex, all kittens were straight-coated — proving the Devon curl gene was completely DIFFERENT. This was a major genetic discovery. The Devon Rex gene (Re) is recessive and on a different chromosome from the Cornish gene (R). Devon × Cornish = straight-coated kittens. CFA recognized them in 1972. They're the #5 CFA breed (2025).
🧬 Devon vs Cornish — Different Curl Genes!
Devon coat: soft, wavy, shortened guard hairs — feels like crushed velvet or suede. Cornish coat: tight, uniform Marcel waves — feels like lambswool. Devon whiskers are short and crinkly; Cornish whiskers are longer and curled. Both are low-shedding and considered hypoallergenic.
🐒 The Monkey Cat — Shoulder Perching Expert
Devons are fearless, acrobatic, and profoundly attached. They climb to the highest point, perch on shoulders, investigate everything, and steal food. Their thin coat provides minimal insulation — expect them under your covers or on your laptop keyboard. Heat-seeking missiles. Highly intelligent — puzzle toys daily. Crave attention and don't do well alone for long hours.