Devon Rex vs Cornish Rex Cat: Best Comparison

Devon Rex and Cornish Rex are two popular domestic cat breeds. While they do have similar names and appearances, they can be quite different in terms of personalities and subtle physical traits. If you’re looking to learn more about both breeds, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get started.

Devon Rex vs. Cornish Rex Cat: Best Comparison

Both Devon Rex and Cornish Rex share several similar traits but are different in their own ways. These breeds can easily be trained and domesticated, with minimal grooming needs. Let’s take an in-depth look at the two to learn more.

Devon Rex vs Cornish Rex – Overview

TraitsDevon RexCornish Rex
Average Length 15-18 inches (Adult)15-18 inches (Adult)
Average Weight6-11 pounds (Adult)6-9 pounds (Adult)
Coat TypeShort, soft, and curlyShort and wavy, with an undercoat
BehaviorVocal, EnergeticPlayful, Adventurous
Lifespan9-15 years10-16 years
Exercise 1+ hours a day1+ hours a day
Grooming RequirementModerateLow
Family FriendlyYesYes
Pet FriendlyYesNo
TrainabilityEasy Easy

The Devon Rex is an intelligent, long-eared cat with a slim body and a wavy coat that originated in Devon, UK. It shares some physical characteristics with the Cornish Rex. These cats are generally considered hypoallergenic because their hair absorbs the Fel-D-1 protein. They also shed very little, compared to the Cornish Rex.

The Cornish Rex, on the other hand, originated in Cornwall, South England. These domestic cats are well known for their curly-haired coat, which comes in various colors and lengths of hair. They are highly prone to shedding.

Unlike the Devon Rex, they are not hypoallergenic, so they may cause issues with people who suffer from allergies. The Cornish Rex has a distinct egg-shaped head and is a small to the medium-sized cat. It is known to be very playful and active

Appearance 

Devon Rex Cat Breed
Devon Rex

The Devon Rex cat has an unusual, beautiful wavy coat. They are not heavy cats and weigh between 6-9 pounds. They are roughly 10-12 inches long. Another striking feature is their tall ears, which sit on an eggshaped face, which gives a naughty impression.

They are not as common as other domestic breeds and are costly for buying and maintenance. They are available in various colors, including white, black, cream, red, cinnamon, and seal. This breed of cats has short hair, so they are sensitive to temperatures.

Cornish Rex Cat Breed
Cornish Rex

Like the Devon Rex, the Cornish Rex has an average weight of 6–10 pounds and a length of 10–12 inches. They have small heads, and their eyes and ears look large compared to the size of their head. These cats have double coloration.

They have an egg-shaped head with bent hair caused by a mutation in their genes, their hair is fine, and their coat is thin and sensitive to low temperatures. Therefore it is advised to keep them indoors during colder months. They are adventurous and fun-loving.

They are available in a variety of colors, including chocolate, white, orange, and other forms of tabby, tortoiseshell, and ticking appearance. They also have a variety of eye colors, including aqua, amber, copper, blue, and green. 

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Maintenance 

A maintenance schedule for a Devon Rex is simple and easy. They have thin coats, which can become greasy and need regular bathing. A mild shampoo and warm water may do wonders for their beauty and health. They also require regular nail trimming and cleaning of the ears and eyes to avoid clogging. It would be necessary to brush their teeth twice a week; otherwise, plaque may develop.

Another important point is their sensitivity to low temperatures or cold environments, and this is because they have a thin coat. This also makes them a target for sunburn if kept in extreme sunlight for a long time, so don’t let them out in the sun for too long. 

On the other hand, the Cornish Rex is a low-maintenance cat. Its thin coat requires a minimal grooming schedule, and if you overgroom it, you can damage its delicate skin and hair. However, they will require regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and tooth brushing schedules. They are also sensitive to low temperatures, so do not leave them out for too long in the cold or heat.

Temperament 

Cornish Rex gets full marks for activity level and playfulness. Another important feature is their attraction and attachment to the owner. However, in terms of attitude toward other pets and cats, they don’t mix well. They aren’t very independent, and they need their parents and owners a lot for food and care. 

In contrast, Devon Rex is highly playful, naughty, and active. They are often described as “a monkey in a catsuit.” They love to run here and there, play extreme physical games, and jump to high places. They tend to develop affection for their owners and hang around their shoulders and necks.

They don’t miss the opportunity to hug their owners and follow them wherever they go. Also, they love to play with other pets and do not engage in fights. They also have “clownish” characteristics as they love to entertain people.

Suitability

Devon Rex is best suited to a home with plenty of toys and playmates. They also crave attention and tend to follow their owners everywhere; they would suit a household where someone is home regularly throughout the day. These cats have a thin coat and must be kept out of severe environmental conditions. 

Cornish Rex cats love to climb and jump, so you must provide cat walls and furniture so they can have fun exploring. In general, both breeds of cats require someone who is home regularly and can play with them every day.

Which cat is right for you? 

Cornish Rex is not hypoallergenic, so if you are looking for a cat and have allergies, you should probably get a Devon Rex. These cats are great entertainers and are usually very energetic. They also get along with other pets and the kids in the house.

On the other hand, if you do not mind a lot of shedding and are free from allergies, the Cornish Rex is a great breed. They can be very playful at times and generally love affection and playing around. However, they do not get along well with other pets.

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