Have you ever found yourself debating between a Devon Rex and a Cornish Rex cat? As two popular Rex breeds with distinctly curly coats, they certainly bear a strong resemblance. However, they have notable differences in personality, health, grooming needs, and more that prospective cat owners would do well to understand.
In this article, we’ll explore the key traits that set the mischievous Devon Rex and the cuddly Cornish Rex apart. You’ll discover how to discern which one best fits your lifestyle and expectations for a feline companion. We’ll also provide tips from experts on choosing and caring for these unique Rex breeds. Let’s dive in!
Appearance: Taking a Closer Look at Their Curl Coats
The waves and curls in the Devon and Cornish Rex fur easily capture one’s attention. However, the texture and coverage of their unusual coats prove strikingly different.
The Devon Rex sports a short, curly coat over much of its lean body, with some straight fur potentially appearing on the muzzle, legs, and tail. The density, length, and tightness of the curls can vary from one Devon to another. Their coats come in a wide spectrum of colors and patterns.
The Cornish Rex, on the other hand, dons an extremely short, fine coat covering their whole body evenly. You’ll only observe a rippled pattern from their tight curls. Also coming in diverse shades and designs, the Cornish presents a more uniform, nearly bald appearance compared to the potentially patchy Devon.
Tip: When meeting Rex cats, don’t just assess their coats visually. Pet them to truly appreciate the contrasts in curl texture between the breeds.
Grooming: Low Maintenance with Some Loose Hair
Despite some hair variations, both the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex shed very minimally thanks to their thin coats lacking an undercoat. This makes grooming quite simple overall.
Devon Rex owners should use a soft brush once per week to remove any loose fur and redistribute skin oils. Pay extra attention to straight-haired regions like the tail. Bathing proves rarely necessary, although wiping dirt off their coat as needed after outdoor adventures can help.
For the Cornish Rex, even less grooming suffices. Many owners tend to simply rub their Cornish cats once weekly with a soft cloth to pick up stray hairs and renew coat oils. Given the Cornish’s extremely short fur, baths remain largely unneeded. Their skin also stays surprisingly odor-free.
Tip: Invest in a few soft grooming cloths and cheap brushes to cover basic grooming needs for your Rex cat of choice.
Personality: The Playful Force vs. the Lap Warmer
When it comes to temperament, significant differences emerge between the two Rex breeds. The Devon and Cornish make distinctly divergent feline companions in terms of energy levels, affection, intelligence, and more.
Owners describe Devon Rex cats as perpetual kitten-like forces brimming with energy and curiosity. They stay highly active indoors and out, devising clever games and bounding between high perches and hiding places. Sociable Devons also enthusiastically greet human guests.
Although the Cornish Rex enjoys playtime too, they tend to spend more hours curled in laps or nearby humans. Their exceptionally social, easygoing personality and mellow nature suits a calmer household. They often bewitch visitors with an irresistible gaze and become fast friends.
Tip: Weigh whether you want a dynamic, amusing pet that’s constantly on the go like the Devon or one that cuddles up often for petting sessions like the Cornish Rex.
Health Concerns: Hidden Genetic Risks
Like all pedigreed cats, both the Devon and Cornish Rex face certain health vulnerabilities tied to their genetics. Understanding these can help you safeguard your unique cat’s well-being through prevention and early detection.
For Devon Rex cats, cardiac issues like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy sometimes emerge. Scheduling annual vet check-ups to monitor heart health proves vital. They may also show greater sensitivity to anesthesia during necessary medical procedures.
The Cornish Rex requires extra caution around anesthesia administration too due to a higher risk of adverse reactions. Owners must also carefully breed out lines carrying the BALB/c anaemia gene tied to dangerous blood cell deficiencies. Kidney disorders and patellar luxation occasionally occur as well.
Tip: When selecting your Rex kitten, ensure your breeder tests for any problematic disease genes like BALB/c and shares evidence of parent cats’ sound structural and heart health.
Choosing Your Breed: Consulting Experts’ Opinions
Stuck deciding where to direct your cat-owning dreams between the delightful Devon Rex or darling Cornish Rex? Getting guidance from longtime breeders and fanciers can provide the feline clarity you crave.
Veteran Rex cat judge and partner in Belerofonte breeding cattery Gwen Anderson explains that new owners should reflect honestly on the level of grooming they can manage. Although both Rexes shed minimally, the Devon’s potentially patchy coat takes more effort. She suggests the Cornish for those wanting a virtual bald cat.
Breed council secretary Elaine Gleason also advises checking if your desired Rex coloration and coat meets breed standards, especially if you envision showing your cat. Since Devon fur allows for greater variation, they offer more options for cat lovers desiring unique markings or a mix of curl patterns. She highlights the consistency in the **Cornish **as an advantage for prospective show cats.
Tip: Catalog your must-have characteristics like coat colors, grooming preferences, and activity expectations. Then have frank discussions with experienced Rex owners and breeders about which breed aligns better with your lifestyle and wishes.
Ready to Add One of These Captivating Rex Cats to Your Family?
After comparing the largest differences separating the delightful Devon Rex from the darling Cornish Rex, are you ready to welcome one of these eye-catching curled kitties into your home?
Both breeds promise to enthrall you with amusing antics and affectionate companionship for years to come. As you search for reputable breeders producing healthy, well-socialized Rex kittens, continue gathering intel from experts on the breed and its exceptional care requirements. Soon you’ll enjoy showering your fabulous feline with all the toys, treats, cuddles and adventure your new best fur-friend can handle!
Which captivating Rex cat feels like the perfect fit for your household after assessing your preferences around personality, grooming, health, and more? Share your pick and plans for spoiling your new curly companion by leaving a comment below!
