Devon Rex Origins

The English Pixie:

• Origin: Devon, England (1960)
• Foundation: A natural mutation in a feral cat
• Recognition: Officially recognized from 1967 onward

Development Story: The Devon Rex originated from a curly-coated kitten named Kirlee, discovered in a litter of feral cats. Unlike the similar-looking Cornish Rex, the Devon Rex gene is recessive, producing a uniquely soft, wavy coat. The breed was developed through strategic outcrossing to maintain genetic health and its characteristic "elfin" charm.

Physical Characteristics Comparison

Coat: The Most Obvious Difference

Sphynx Coat:

• Coverage: Hairless or covered in a fine peach fuzz
• Texture: Warm, soft skin often compared to a suede or peach
• Wrinkles: Prominent, especially on the head, neck, and body
• Shedding: Minimal to none
• Colors: All colors and patterns are visible in the skin pigmentation
• Feel: Warm to the touch due to lack of insulating fur

Devon Rex Coat:

• Coverage: Short, wavy fur over the entire body
• Texture: Exceptionally soft with defined ripples or waves
• Density: A thin undercoat; guard hairs are often missing
• Shedding: Minimal
• Colors: All colors and patterns are possible
• Feel: A unique, plush velvety texture

Grooming Comparison:

Body Type

Sphynx Build:

• Medium-sized, muscular, and athletic
• Barrel-shaped chest and a firm, medium-boned structure
• A rounded "pot belly" is normal and not a sign of obesity
• Adult Weight: 6-12 pounds

Devon Rex Build:

• Small to medium-sized with a fine-boned, slender frame
• Broad chest, long slender legs, and characteristically high hindquarters
• Adult Weight: 5-10 pounds

Size Comparison:

Head and Facial Features

Sphynx:

• Modified wedge-shaped head
• Prominent cheekbones and large, lemon-shaped eyes
• Any eye color is acceptable
• Large, wide-set ears and wrinkled skin on the head

Devon Rex:

• Short, broad wedge-shaped head
• High cheekbones and large, oval eyes
• Any eye color is acceptable
• Very large, low-set ears and a short muzzle with a strong chin
• Famous for its "pixie" or "elfin" expression

Distinctive Features:

Temperament Comparison

Personality Overview

Sphynx Personality: The "Velcro" Cat

• Heat-seeking: Constantly seeks warm spots and human laps.
• Extremely Affectionate: Deeply people-oriented and forms strong bonds.
• Social Butterfly: Thrives on companionship; dislikes being alone.
• Intelligent & Playful: Shows problem-solving abilities and enjoys interactive games.
• Behavioral Traits: Known to follow owners everywhere, greet them at the door, and "help" with tasks. They are generally excellent with children and other pets.

Devon Rex Personality: The "Pixie Clown"

• Perpetually Playful: Retains a kitten-like energy and curiosity throughout its life.
• Athletic Acrobat: An excellent jumper and climber who loves high places.
• Clever & Mischievous: Highly intelligent, known for learning tricks, opening doors, and even stealing food.
• Affectionate but Independent: Enjoys human company but is often more self-sufficient than the Sphynx.
• Behavioral Traits: Highly entertaining, loves puzzle toys, and can amuse themselves but still craves interaction.

Care Requirements Comparison

Sphynx-Specific Care

Weekly Bathing:

• Why: Their skin produces oils that aren't absorbed by fur.
• How: Use warm water and a gentle, hypoallergenic cat shampoo.
• Tip: Start bathing routines when they are kittens to create a positive experience.

Weekly Ear & Nail Cleaning:

• Ears: Lack of ear hair leads to wax buildup; clean weekly with a vet-approved solution.
• Nails: Oils accumulate around the nail beds; clean during the weekly bath.

Temperature Management:

• Essential: Must be indoor-only cats.
• Needs: Heated beds, sweaters in cooler months, and a home temperature of at least 70°F (21°C).
• Caution: They are prone to sunburn and must be protected from direct sunlight.

Devon Rex-Specific Care

Coat Care:

• Brushing: A gentle weekly brushing with a soft brush is sufficient.
• Bathing: Rarely required; over-bathing can dry out their skin.

General Maintenance:

• Lower maintenance than the Sphynx.
• Requires standard ear cleaning and nail trimming.
• Needs mental stimulation via puzzle toys and secure food storage (they are clever thieves!).

Environmental Needs for Both Breeds

Both Breeds Require:

• A strictly indoor lifestyle for safety.
• A warm, comfortable home environment.
• Plenty of interactive playtime and mental stimulation.
• Consistent companionship; they are not suited for absentee owners.

Breed-Specific Needs:

Health Comparison

Sphynx Health Concerns

Common Issues:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A form of heart disease. Annual screening is recommended.
• Skin Conditions: Prone to sunburn, acne, and fungal infections without proper care.
• Temperature Regulation: Cannot tolerate cold environments.
• Dental Disease: May have a higher incidence; regular dental care is crucial.

Average Lifespan: 12-16 years

Devon Rex Health Concerns

Common Issues:

• Patellar Luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates.
• Hereditary Myopathy (Spasticity): A genetic muscle disorder. DNA testing is available.
• Skin & Coat Issues: Can develop a greasy coat if not groomed regularly.
• Ear Infections: Their large ears can be prone to buildup and infection.

Average Lifespan: 10-15 years

Estimated Annual Veterinary Costs

Living Environment Suitability

Ideal Home for a Sphynx

• Warm climates or homes with consistent heating.
• Owners who are home frequently or can provide a feline companion.
• Individuals seeking an extremely affectionate, "shadow" cat.
• Owners willing and able to commit to a weekly grooming routine.

Ideal Home for a Devon Rex

• Active households that enjoy interactive play.
• Homes with ample vertical space (cat trees, shelves).
• Owners who appreciate a clever, entertaining, and mischievous personality.
• Those wanting a unique-looking cat with lower grooming needs than a Sphynx.

Cost of Ownership Comparison

Initial Acquisition Cost (2026)

Estimated Annual Care Costs

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Choose a Sphynx If You:

• Desire an extremely affectionate, "Velcro" companion.
• Don't mind a weekly bathing and grooming commitment.
• Can provide a consistently warm indoor environment.
• Are home often and want a shadow-like companion.
• Appreciate a unique, exotic appearance and warm cuddles.

Choose a Devon Rex If You:

• Want a highly active, playful, and entertaining clown.
• Have space for cat trees and high perches.
• Enjoy a clever, sometimes mischievous personality.
• Want a distinctive look without the high-maintenance grooming of a hairless cat.
• Can provide plenty of mental stimulation and interactive play.

Both Breeds Are a Great Fit If You:

• Are committed to an indoor-only lifestyle.
• Can provide a loving home for 10-16 years.
• Value intelligence, interaction, and a unique feline friend.
• Have time for daily play and companionship.

Conclusion

Choosing between a Sphynx and a Devon Rex is a decision between two uniquely wonderful companions. The Sphynx offers unparalleled warmth and affection but requires a significant grooming commitment. The Devon Rex provides endless entertainment and pixie-like charm with relatively lower maintenance.

Both breeds demand dedicated owners who can meet their specific needs for warmth, interaction, and indoor safety. Your final choice will likely hinge on your tolerance for grooming (higher for Sphynx) and your preference for activity level (higher for Devon Rex). Whichever you choose, you'll be welcoming an intelligent, loving, and truly extraordinary cat into your life.

Related Articles:

• The Complete Guide to Sphynx Cat Care in 2026
• Devon Rex Cats: Personality, Care, and Health Guide
• A Beginner's Guide to Hairless Cat Care
• Top 10 Most Unique Cat Breeds for Adventurous Owners

Last Updated: 2026