Origins and History

Cornish Rex History

The Cornish Rex originated in Cornwall, England, in 1950 with the birth of a cream-colored kitten named Kallibunker. This kitten possessed an unusual curly coat resulting from a spontaneous genetic mutation that produced only the soft undercoat (down hair), lacking the typical guard and awn hairs.

Breeders recognized this unique trait and began a dedicated breeding program. The Cornish Rex achieved championship status in cat associations during the 1960s. It's crucial to note that despite their similar names, the Cornish and Devon Rex mutations are genetically distinct and not directly related.

Devon Rex History

The Devon Rex emerged a decade later in Devon, England, in 1960. A stray cat gave birth to a curly-coated male kitten named Kirlee. Initially assumed to be related to the Cornish Rex, test breedings proved the Devon's curly coat was caused by a completely different genetic mutation.

This mutation affects all three hair types but creates a unique curl. The breed gained recognition in the UK in the 1960s and was accepted in the United States by the 1970s.

Physical Appearance

Cornish Rex Appearance

Cornish Rex cats are often likened to feline greyhounds due to their elegant, athletic build.

• Build: Long, slender, and athletic with a distinctly arched back.
• Head: Egg-shaped with prominent cheekbones and a Roman nose.
• Ears: Large, set high on the head.
• Eyes: Oval, medium-sized, and can be any color.
• Coat: Very short, soft, and wavy with a consistent marcel wave pattern.
• Body: Fine-boned and graceful.
• Tail: Long, tapering, and whip-like.

Devon Rex Appearance

Devon Rex cats have a distinctive, impish look often described as pixie-like or alien.

• Build: Compact, muscular, and surprisingly sturdy.
• Head: Short, broad wedge shape with full cheeks and a short muzzle.
• Ears: Enormous, low-set on the head, giving a bat-like impression.
• Eyes: Large, oval, and wide-set.
• Coat: Short, curly, and often appears tousled or crinkled.
• Body: Medium frame with sturdy legs.
• Face: Characterized by high cheekbones and a mischievous expression.

Coat Differences: Texture and Care

Cornish Rex Coat

• Texture: Exceptionally soft, wavy, with uniform marcel waves (like a permanent wave).
• Hair Types: Consists almost entirely of down hair; lacks guard and awn hairs.
• Feel: Incredibly soft, often compared to velvet, crushed silk, or lamb's wool.
• Curl Pattern: Even, body-hugging ripples.
• Shedding: Very minimal.
• Care: Requires gentle handling. Use a soft cloth or your hands for grooming; avoid harsh brushes.

Devon Rex Coat

• Texture: Short, curly, with a looser, more random pattern.
• Hair Types: Contains all three hair types, but all are mutated and curly.
• Feel: Soft, but texture can vary between individuals.
• Curl Pattern: Looser, more tousled curls, especially on the body.
• Shedding: Very minimal.
• Care: Benefits from gentle finger-combing or a very soft brush. Their large ears require regular cleaning.

Important: Both breeds have delicate coats that should never be brushed roughly, as this can damage the hair follicles.

Personality and Temperament

Cornish Rex Personality

Think of the Cornish Rex as a playful athlete.

• Active & Energetic: High-energy cats that love to run, jump, and play.
• Perpetually Playful: They retain their kitten-like curiosity and playfulness well into adulthood.
• Intelligent: Quick learners who enjoy puzzle toys and can even learn tricks.
• Social Butterflies: Thrive on human interaction and dislike being left alone for long periods.
• Affectionate: Known as "heat-seeking missiles," they love to curl up in warm laps.
• Acrobatic: Excellent jumpers and climbers who appreciate tall cat trees.

Devon Rex Personality

The Devon Rex is best described as an impish prankster.

• Mischievous & Curious: Into everything, with a talent for opening cabinets and "helping" with tasks.
• Entertaining Clowns: Their playful antics and sometimes awkward movements are a constant source of amusement.
• Highly Intelligent: Easily trained and enjoy interactive games.
• Deeply Loyal: Form strong, dog-like bonds with their favorite people and often follow them from room to room.
• Social & Adaptable: Generally get along well with children, other cats, and cat-friendly dogs.
• Greeters: Many will happily greet their owners at the door.

Grooming and Maintenance

Cornish Rex Grooming

Commitment: Minimal

• Brushing: Occasional, very gentle wiping with a chamois or soft cloth.
• Bathing: Rarely needed, as their fine coat doesn't hold much oil.
• Skin Care: In dry climates, their skin may benefit from occasional moisturizing.
• Nails & Ears: Standard nail trimming and ear checks apply.

Devon Rex Grooming

Commitment: Minimal

• Brushing: Gentle finger-combing or using a soft bristle brush is sufficient.
• Bathing: An occasional bath can help manage skin oils and keep their coat looking its best.
• Ear Cleaning: Essential. Their large, open ears can accumulate wax and need regular cleaning.
• Nails: Standard nail trimming.

Health and Lifespan Considerations

Cornish Rex Health

Generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-16 years.

• Potential Concerns:
  • Hypotrichosis: Congenital hair loss in some bloodlines.
  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A form of heart disease.
  • Skin Conditions: Can be prone to minor fungal or bacterial infections due to their thin coat.
  • Temperature Sensitivity: Feel the cold easily and seek out warm spots.

Devon Rex Health

A generally healthy breed with a typical lifespan of 9-15 years.

• Potential Concerns:
  • Patellar Luxation: A kneecap dislocation issue.
  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): Heart disease screening is recommended.
  • Skin Conditions: Some lines may be prone to a yeast infection called Malassezia dermatitis.
  • Hereditary Myopathy: A rare muscle weakness condition (now uncommon due to responsible breeding).

For both breeds: Purchasing from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings is the best way to ensure a healthy kitten.

Cost Comparison (2026 Estimates)

Initial Costs

Annual Ongoing Costs

Which Curly-Coated Breed Is Right for You?

Choose a Cornish Rex If You Want:

• An elegant, graceful, and athletic feline.
• A cat with a consistently wavy, soft coat.
• A highly active companion who loves to play.
• An affectionate "heat-seeker" who will be your lap cat.
• A pet with minimal grooming needs.

Choose a Devon Rex If You Want:

• A mischievous, impish, and entertaining clown.
• A cat with a unique, pixie-like face and tousled curls.
• A loyal, dog-like shadow who follows you everywhere.
• A highly social cat that integrates well into a busy family.
• A playful companion with a big personality in a compact body.

Final Thoughts

Both the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex offer an unparalleled combination of unique beauty and engaging personality. They share:

• Striking Appearance: Their curly coats are sure to turn heads.
• Playful, Intelligent Nature: They remain playful and curious throughout their lives.
• Strong Affection: They form deep bonds and thrive on companionship.
• Low-Shedding Coats: Ideal for many people with mild allergies (though no cat is truly hypoallergenic).
• Indoor Lifestyle: Both breeds should be kept exclusively indoors for their safety.

Your decision ultimately comes down to personal preference: the sleek, athletic grace of the Cornish Rex or the impish, loyal charm of the Devon Rex. Whichever you choose, you'll be welcoming a loving, entertaining, and utterly unique companion into your life.