The Devon Rex is a relatively new
breed
of cat with a sparse,
curly, very soft coat similar to that of the
Cornish
Rex. The Cornish Rex's coat is unusual because only the
down
layer of hair is present, the other two layers are absent. More information on
the layers is available under
Cornish
Rex. See also the
Sphynx
breed for more information on hair-deficient genetics in cats.
The curl in their fur is caused by a different mutation and gene than that of
the Cornish Rex and German Rex, and breeding of a Devon to either of those cats
results in cats without rexed (curled) fur.
Devons, which are medium sized cats, are often called "pixie cats" or "alien
cats" because of their unique appearance. Their uncommonly large ears are set
low on the sides of their wide heads, their eyes are large, and their noses are
slightly upturned. Their body type is distinctly lightly-built.
The typical Devon is active, mischievous, playful, and very people-oriented.
They're relatively easy to take care of, but they do shed, and many of those
with allergies have found that they are not always
hypoallergenic.