Devon Rex vs Cornish Rex: Which Curly Cat Is Right for You

Last updated: May 6, 2026

Devon Rex vs Cornish Rex: An Overview

The Devon Rex and Cornish Rex are two of the most distinctive and charismatic cat breeds, both known for their unusual curly coats and playful personalities. Despite their similar names and wavy fur, the Devon Rex vs Cornish Rex comparison reveals two genetically distinct breeds with different body types, coat textures, and personality nuances. Choosing between them comes down to understanding what makes each one unique.

Both breeds originated in southwestern England — the Cornish Rex in Cornwall in 1950 and the Devon Rex in Devon in 1960. Early breeders initially assumed the two curly-coated mutations were related, but crossing Devon and Cornish cats produced only straight-coated kittens, proving that their curly coats are caused by entirely different genes. Today, they are recognized as separate breeds with their own standards and dedicated followings.

Quick Comparison

• Body type: Devon is compact and muscular; Cornish is slender and arched
• Coat: Devon has a short, loose curl; Cornish has tight, uniform waves
• Head shape: Devon has a broad, pixie-like face; Cornish has a narrow, egg-shaped head
• Weight: Devon 5-10 pounds; Cornish 5-10 pounds
• Lifespan: Both 12-16 years
• Energy: Both very high

Temperament and Personality

Both Rex breeds are known for being clownish, affectionate, and endlessly entertaining, but there are subtle differences in how they express these traits.

The Devon Rex is often described as a mischievous pixie. These cats are playful pranksters who love to be the center of attention and will go to creative lengths to get it. They are incredibly food-motivated (some owners call them food thieves), love to perch on shoulders, and have a monkey-like agility that sees them climbing to improbable heights. Devons are deeply people-oriented and tend to bond with the entire family rather than choosing a single favorite person.

The Cornish Rex is similarly playful but often carries itself with a touch more elegance. These cats are athletic and acrobatic, with a love of running, leaping, and showing off their speed. Cornish Rex cats are sometimes compared to greyhounds for their long-legged, arched body and surprising sprinting ability. They are affectionate and social but can be slightly more independent than Devons, though they still want to be near their people.

Both breeds are excellent with children, other cats, and cat-friendly dogs. They are social, adaptable, and hate being left alone. If you work long hours, either breed benefits from having a companion animal. Their playful nature persists well into adulthood, making them perpetual entertainers in any household.

Size and Appearance

While both breeds are small to medium cats in the 5-to-10-pound range, their body types are quite different when you look closely.

The Devon Rex has a compact, muscular body with a broad chest, medium-fine bones, and a distinctive low-set stance. The head is the breed’s most recognizable feature — a wide, modified wedge shape with enormous, low-set ears, large oval eyes, and prominent cheekbones that create the famous “pixie” or “alien” expression. The eyes can be any color and often appear enormous relative to the face.

The Cornish Rex has an entirely different silhouette. The body is long, slender, and arched with a visible tuck at the waist, giving it a tucked-up, Greyhound-like profile. The legs are very long and fine, and the cat appears to stand on tiptoe. The head is a narrow, egg-shaped wedge with high-set, large ears and a Roman nose with a noticeable bridge. The overall impression is of elegance and athleticism.

The coat is where things get especially interesting. The Devon Rex has a short, soft, loose curl that can range from a gentle wave to a slightly tousled look. Some areas may be thinner than others, and some Devons have nearly bare patches, particularly on the chest and belly. The coat feels like soft suede or crushed velvet.

The Cornish Rex has the more uniformly curly coat. Their fur consists only of the undercoat (the down hair), with no guard hairs or awn hairs, creating tight, even marcel waves that ripple across the entire body. The coat feels like silk or satin and lies close to the body. Both breeds come in all colors and patterns.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Both Devon and Cornish Rex cats are high-energy breeds that need plenty of daily exercise and play. Expect a cat that wants to run, jump, climb, and engage with you actively every single day.

The Devon Rex is a climber and percher. They love cat trees, shoulder-riding, and finding the highest spot in any room. Their muscular build gives them impressive jumping power, and they will launch themselves onto shelves, refrigerators, and door tops. Provide sturdy, tall cat trees and secure wall-mounted shelves for safe climbing.

The Cornish Rex is more of a runner and sprinter. They enjoy racing through the house, making sharp turns, and performing acrobatic leaps. Open floor space for running, interactive chasing games, and toys that encourage speed play are ideal. Both breeds love fetch, and many will bring toys back enthusiastically.

Puzzle feeders and food-dispensing toys are essential for both breeds. The Devon’s food obsession makes puzzle feeders doubly useful — they slow down eating while providing mental stimulation. The Cornish enjoys the challenge of working for treats as well. Aim for at least two to three active play sessions of 15 to 20 minutes each day for either breed.

Grooming and Care

Both Rex breeds require gentler grooming than most cats due to their delicate coats, but their specific needs differ somewhat.

The Devon Rex should be brushed only occasionally and very gently with a soft cloth or your hand. Overbrushing can damage or break their fragile curls. Some Devons benefit from occasional baths to remove oily buildup on the skin, particularly in areas where the coat is thinner. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cat shampoo and dry them thoroughly, as their thin coat provides minimal insulation.

The Cornish Rex’s coat is similarly delicate. Gentle hand-grooming or a very soft cloth is preferable to a brush. Like the Devon, some Cornish Rex cats develop oily skin and may need periodic baths. Their coat dries quickly due to its fine texture, but keep them warm after bathing.

Both breeds are sensitive to temperature extremes because their coats provide less insulation than a typical cat’s fur. In cooler weather, they will seek out warm spots — sunny windows, heated beds, your lap, and under blankets. Some owners provide sweaters for their Rex cats during winter months. In summer, keep them out of direct sun for extended periods to prevent sunburn on thinner-coated areas.

Ear care is important for both breeds, as their large ears can accumulate wax. Clean weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner. Both breeds can be prone to dental issues, so regular tooth brushing with cat-safe toothpaste is recommended. Standard nail trimming every two to three weeks completes the routine.

Health and Lifespan

Both Devon Rex and Cornish Rex cats have typical lifespans of 12 to 16 years and are generally considered healthy breeds, but each has some breed-specific health considerations.

The Devon Rex can be affected by Devon Rex myopathy, a hereditary muscle condition that causes progressive weakness. Symptoms typically appear between 3 and 23 weeks of age. Responsible breeders test for this condition. Devons can also be prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, patellar luxation (loose kneecaps), and skin conditions related to their sparse coat.

The Cornish Rex is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy as well, along with patellar luxation and progressive retinal atrophy. Their lack of guard hairs means they can be more susceptible to skin irritation from contact allergens. Some Cornish Rex cats develop sensitivity to flea bites more readily than fully coated breeds.

Both breeds have higher metabolic rates than many cats due to their thin coats. They burn more calories to stay warm, which means they may need more food relative to their size. Work with your veterinarian to determine the right caloric intake for your Rex cat’s age, weight, and activity level. Regular veterinary checkups, ideally twice yearly, help catch any health issues early.

Which Curly Cat Is Right for You?

Choosing between a Devon Rex and a Cornish Rex often comes down to personal preference in appearance and subtle personality differences, since both breeds share many wonderful traits.

Choose a Devon Rex if you want a cat that will ride your shoulders, steal your food, and make you laugh with its pixie face and clownish antics. Devons tend to be slightly more cuddly and people-obsessed, often described as “a monkey in a cat suit.” They are perfect for owners who want a cat that is a constant, hands-on companion.

Choose a Cornish Rex if you prefer a more elegant, athletic cat with a slightly more independent streak. The Cornish’s greyhound-like build and silky waves give it a refined look that appeals to many cat fanciers. While equally affectionate, Cornish Rex cats may be a bit less clingy than Devons, though they still want to be in the same room as their people.

Both breeds are wonderful for families, multi-pet households, and owners who spend a lot of time at home. Neither does well with prolonged isolation. If allergies are a factor, note that while both breeds are sometimes marketed as hypoallergenic, no cat is truly allergen-free. Some allergy sufferers report reduced symptoms with Rex breeds, but this varies greatly by individual.

Whether you choose a Devon or a Cornish, you will get an unforgettable, entertaining, and deeply loving companion. For more breed explorations, check our cat care and breed guide section, or visit our cat adoption hub to meet cats waiting for their forever families. If you are drawn to the unusual, the Peterbald breed profile is another great read.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you breed a Devon Rex with a Cornish Rex?

While physically possible, responsible breeders do not cross Devon and Cornish Rex cats. The two breeds have different curl genes, and crossing them produces straight-coated kittens, not curly ones. This confirmed that the mutations are genetically unrelated. Each breed is maintained as a separate line with its own breeding standards.

Are Devon or Cornish Rex cats hypoallergenic?

Neither breed is truly hypoallergenic. Cat allergies are primarily caused by the Fel d 1 protein in saliva and skin secretions, not by fur. However, some allergy sufferers report reduced symptoms around Rex breeds, possibly because less fur means fewer surfaces for allergens to cling to. If you have cat allergies, spend time with both breeds before committing to ensure your symptoms are manageable.

Do Devon and Cornish Rex cats get along with dogs?

Yes, both breeds tend to get along very well with cat-friendly dogs. Their confident, outgoing personalities help them adapt to canine housemates. Proper introductions are still important — give both animals time to adjust at their own pace. Many Rex cats become best friends with their dog siblings, playing together and sharing napping spots.

Which Rex breed sheds less?

Both Devon and Cornish Rex cats shed significantly less than most cat breeds due to their unusual coats. The Cornish Rex, which has only the fine undercoat and no guard or awn hairs, may shed slightly less overall. The Devon Rex’s coat can be thin in spots and may shed unevenly. Neither breed will cover your furniture in fur the way a typical shorthaired or longhaired cat does.