Cat breed comparison
Cornish Rex vs Devon Rex
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Cornish Rex | Devon Rex |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Weight | 5 to 9 lbs | 5 to 10 lbs |
| Life span | 11 to 14 years | 10 to 15 years |
| Lap cat | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Background
Where they come from.
The Cornish Rex
Began with Kallibunker, a curly-coated kitten born on a farm in Cornwall in 1950.
It has no outer guard hairs, only a soft, wavy undercoat, so it feels warm to the touch and needs warmth.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Patellar luxation
- Skin sensitivity
The Devon Rex
Began with Kirlee, a curly-coated kitten born in Devon, England, in 1960, separately from the Cornish Rex.
Its large ears and impish face earn it the nickname pixie cat.
Health to watch
- Hereditary myopathy
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Patellar luxation
- Skin yeast infections
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Health issues
The Devon Rex tends to have more health issues than the Cornish Rex.
Which to choose
Cornish Rex or Devon Rex?
Choose the Cornish Rex if…
- You want a cat that tends to have fewer health issues
Choose the Devon Rex if…
They’re very alike; choose on looks, size and the individual pet.
Full Devon Rex guideQuestions.
Which is easier to train, the Cornish Rex or the Devon Rex?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Cornish Rex or the Devon Rex?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
They shed about the same amount. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
What health problems do the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex have?
The Cornish Rex is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, patellar luxation, skin sensitivity. The Devon Rex is prone to hereditary myopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, patellar luxation. Both share a risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and patellar luxation. Ask any breeder for the parents' health test results.
