Be Wise › Pet Wise guides › Cats › Devon Rex
Devon Rex: temperament, health and care
Devon Rex: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this cat suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Small to medium, about 2.5–4.5 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–16 years |
| Exercise | High |
| Grooming | Fine curly coat: minimal brushing; may need gentle cleaning |
Temperament and who it suits
Playful, people-oriented and mischievous.
Often suits: owners who are home a lot and want an interactive cat.
Their thin coat means they feel the cold, and they may need extra warmth.
Health problems to know about
- Hereditary myopathy (muscle weakness)
- HCM (a heart muscle disease)
- Kneecap problems
- Skin yeast infections
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Devon Rex
- See the kitten with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped by 20 weeks old in England
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have cats like this looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to cats for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Devon Rex live?
A Devon Rex typically lives 12–16 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Devon Rex need?
High.
What health problems are common in a Devon Rex?
Common concerns include hereditary myopathy (muscle weakness), HCM (a heart muscle disease), kneecap problems and skin yeast infections. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Devon Rex need?
Fine curly coat: minimal brushing; may need gentle cleaning.
Who does a Devon Rex suit?
It often suits owners who are home a lot and want an interactive cat. Their thin coat means they feel the cold, and they may need extra warmth.
Similar cats
Sources
- International Cat Care: cat breeds and health
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Cats Protection: compulsory microchipping of cats in England
Want answers for your situation?
The Be Pet Wise app lets you choose your country and pet, and ask PetBot follow-up questions.
Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.