Comparison of Cornish Rex and Devon Rex: Understanding the Differences in Their Curly Furred Feline Identities
Article: The Cornish Rex and Devon Rex: Understanding the Differences
The Cornish Rex and Devon Rex are two curly-coated cat breeds that share many similarities, but they also have key differences that set them apart. Both breeds are suitable as family cats, with the Devon Rex being more laid-back compared to the Cornish Rex.
Both breeds are minimal shedders with low-maintenance grooming needs. Weekly brushing with a soft brush or grooming mitten is enough to maintain the coats of both breeds. The Cornish Rex's fur is finer and silkier compared to the Devon Rex, which has a coat with three layers, resulting in looser curls.
When it comes to exercise, the Cornish Rex is highly energetic and playful, retaining kitten-like activity well into old age. Devon Rex cats are active too but are slightly less energetic, enjoying a balance between play and cuddle time.
Both breeds are intelligent and trainable, capable of learning tricks and solving problems. The Cornish Rex is especially noted for high intelligence paired with confident and charming behavior. The Devon Rex is also smart but tends to be more easygoing.
In terms of health, Cornish Rex cats tend to suffer fewer health problems and have a longer average lifespan of 15–20 years. Devon Rex cats have a somewhat shorter lifespan of about 12–16 years and can have more health concerns. Both breeds are at risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) due to gene mutations that give them their abnormal coat types. The Devon Rex is also prone to a blood-clotting disorder.
When it comes to owner suitability, Cornish Rex cats suit owners who want an active, playful, and affectionate cat that thrives on interaction and exercise. Devon Rex cats are better suited for those who prefer a lively but more easygoing and cuddly companion. Both breeds enjoy human company and are good for owners seeking affectionate pets.
Physically, the Cornish Rex is slightly larger and slenderer with a more refined wedge-shaped head and long legs. Devon Rex cats have a compact muscular body, broad chest, elfin triangular face, and large rounded ears, giving them a distinctive "pixie-like" appearance.
In summary, the Cornish Rex is more energetic, requires similar but minimal grooming, and typically lives longer with fewer health issues. The Devon Rex is a bit more mellow and cuddly with a slightly different coat texture and facial features. Both are affectionate and intelligent, requiring owners who appreciate their distinct personalities and maintain basic grooming and health care.
- The Cornish Rex's coat is finer and silkier compared to the Devon Rex, which has a coat with three layers, resulting in looser curls.
- Both the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex are suitable as family pets, with the Cornish Rex being more energetic and playful.
- The Devon Rex, on the other hand, is more laid-back compared to the Cornish Rex in terms of behavior.
- Weekly brushing with a soft brush or grooming mitten is enough to maintain the coats of both the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex.
- Cornish Rex cats tend to live longer with fewer health problems, with an average lifespan of 15–20 years, while Devon Rex cats have a somewhat shorter lifespan of about 12–16 years.
- Both breeds are intelligent and trainable, capable of learning tricks and solving problems.
- When choosing a pet, those who prefer an active, playful, and affectionate cat might lean towards the Cornish Rex, while those seeking a lively but more easygoing and cuddly companion might choose the Devon Rex.
- In terms of physical appearance, the Cornish Rex is slightly larger and slenderer, with a more refined wedge-shaped head and long legs, while the Devon Rex has a compact muscular body, broad chest, elfin triangular face, and large rounded ears.
