Devon Rex

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A stray kitten born in Devonshire England in 1959 named Kirlee was the founding father of the unique breed of cats known today as the Devon Rex. Today's Devon Rex maintain a look true to their founder ‑ huge ears, set low on the sides of the head, a pixie-like face with large, eyes and a short slightly upturned nose. A coat of loose waves and curls covers a strong, compact body.

A medium sized cat, adult Devons average six to nine pounds, with males heavier than females. The Devon coat varies greatly, ranging from an almost shaggy mop of loose curls to a thin suede-like coat that may leave some areas nearly bare.

The coat may vary over the life of the cat, with some kittens losing much of their coat when they get older, and some adult coats changing seasonally. Their fur comes in a variety of colors in the solid, shaded, smoke, tabby, bi-color, parti-color and pointed patterns.

Even though their body temperature is the same as other cats, many Devons are surprisingly warm to the touch because of their lighter coat. Not surprisingly, Devons tend to be "heat seekers," and are often found lounging on televisions, computer monitors and heater vents.

Devons are highly active, playful and involved with everything. Powerful jumpers, very few spots large enough to hold them will not be explored. Devons are very people oriented and invite themselves along for every activity ‑ preferably perched on a shoulder, lap, or wherever they can be closest to their people. Also, be careful leaving food out around them, because they love to steal snacks.

Devons are low maintenance cats. Their large ears occasionally require cleaning, but otherwise a quick shampoo, towel drying and a nail-trim is all the grooming most Devons require.

Despite popular beliefs, Devons do shed, although their unique coat may make the shed hair less noticeable than that of many cats. While some people with animal allergies tolerate Devons very well, anyone with allergy issues should spend time with a Devon before getting one.