Devon Rex Cats for Adoption in Davis, CA

Yes, Devon Rex cats are relatively rare. They are recognized by major registries but are far less common than domestic shorthairs or breeds such as Maine Coons and Siamese. Few appear in shelters, so adopters may need patience, regular checks of adoption listings and contact with breed-specific or rex cat rescues.

Devon Rex cats are small to medium cats, usually weighing about 6 to 9 pounds as adults, with males often slightly heavier. Some range from about 5 to 10 pounds. They have slender, muscular bodies, long legs and a lightweight build, so they often feel lighter than they look when you pick them up.

Devon Rex cats come from Devon, in southwest England. The breed began with Kirlee, a curly-coated male kitten found in Buckfastleigh around 1960. Test matings showed that Kirlee's wavy coat came from a different gene than the Cornish Rex's, so the Devon was developed as its own breed. The CFA recognized it in 1979.

Devon Rex cats can go outside safely only with protection, such as a secure catio or a harness and leash under supervision. Their thin coat provides little warmth or sun protection, so they can get cold quickly and pale cats can sunburn. Indoor living also protects them from traffic, predators and disease.

Yes, Devon Rex cats are usually very friendly. Many greet visitors, enjoy attention and get along with children, other cats and cat-friendly dogs. Their social, playful nature makes them popular companions. Early experiences shape every cat, so ask about a specific Devon's background and give a new cat time to settle.

Devon Rex cats can make excellent pets for people who want an interactive, affectionate cat and are home often. They are playful, social and usually easy to handle. They need extra warmth, periodic baths and ear cleaning, and they may get into mischief if bored. Households away for long hours may want two cats.

Devon Rex cats are moderately high maintenance. Their coat needs little brushing, but they often need periodic baths, regular ear cleaning and help staying warm. They also crave attention and play, and they dislike long stretches alone. For owners who enjoy hands-on care and an engaged cat, those needs are part of the appeal.

Devon Rex cats can be left alone for a typical workday, but many dislike long periods by themselves. Lonely Devons may become bored or vocal. Puzzle feeders, climbing spaces and window perches help, and a second compatible cat often provides company. Extended absences call for a pet sitter who can play and check in.

Clean a Devon Rex's ears by applying a vet-recommended ear cleaner, gently massaging the base of the ear, and wiping away loosened wax from the visible parts with cotton or a soft cloth. Never push swabs into the canal. Devons build up wax quickly, so weekly checks help. Redness, odor or head shaking warrant a vet visit.

Train a Devon Rex with short, positive sessions using small treats, praise and a clicker or marker word. Many Devons are food-motivated and learn tricks such as sit, high five, fetch and walking on a harness. Keep sessions brief and fun, and reward desired behaviors, like using a scratching post, rather than punishing unwanted ones.

A Devon Rex has a short, wedge-shaped head with prominent cheekbones, very large low-set ears and big oval eyes, giving it a pixie-like look. Its coat is short, soft and wavy, sometimes thin on the chest or belly. The body is slender and muscular with long legs, and whiskers are often short or curly.

Devon Rex cats eat the same kinds of complete, balanced commercial cat food as other cats, whether wet, dry or a mix. Many have high metabolisms and big appetites for their size, partly because their thin coat makes them burn energy to stay warm. Measure meals and adjust for body condition, since Devons can overeat.

Most Devon Rex cats reach their adult size around 12 months and may continue filling out until about 18 months. Their coat may also change during kittenhood, sometimes thinning before the adult coat comes in. Personality usually stays playful well past maturity. A veterinarian can confirm whether a young Devon is growing on track.

No, Devon Rex cats do not normally need their ear hair plucked. Plucking can irritate the ear canal and is generally not recommended for cats. What Devons do need is regular checks and gentle cleaning of the visible ear, since they produce more wax than many breeds. Ask a veterinarian before trying any ear procedure.

Yes, Devon Rex kittens are usually born with wavy or curly fur, though the curl may be faint at first. Coats often change during kittenhood, with some kittens going through a thin or patchy stage before the adult coat fills in. The full, characteristic wave typically develops as the kitten matures.

Many Devon Rex cats have good hunting instincts. They are agile, quick and love to pounce, so they excel at chasing toys and may catch insects or mice indoors. Because they should live indoors for warmth and safety, interactive play with wand toys is the best outlet for their hunting drive.

Many Devon Rex cats get along well with dogs, especially calm, cat-friendly dogs. Their confident, social nature often helps them bond with canine housemates. Careful, gradual introductions are still important, and dogs with strong prey drive may not be safe. A Devon that has lived with dogs before will usually adjust more easily.

Yes, Devon Rex cats can have green eyes. The breed allows a wide range of eye colors, including gold, copper, hazel and green, often depending on coat color. Colorpoint Devons have blue eyes, minks have aqua eyes and sepias usually have gold to yellow-green eyes. Eye color does not affect health.

Yes, a Devon Rex can have a mostly bald head, especially as a kitten, without having hypotrichosis. Thin hair on the temples, forehead and ears is common in the breed, and kitten coats often thin before filling in. Congenital hypotrichosis usually causes more widespread, persistent hair loss. A veterinarian can evaluate unusual patterns.

Devon Rex kittens should generally eat kitten food until about 12 months old, because it provides the extra calories, protein and nutrients growing cats need. Switching to adult food too early can shortchange growth. Food labeled for all life stages also works. Transition gradually over a week to avoid stomach upset, and follow your vet's advice.