Rex · Rank #8 Most Popular Cat Breed
Devon Rex

The Devon Rex originated in Devonshire, England in 1960 from a natural mutation and is characterized by its large ears, wide eyes, and short, wavy coat. Often described as a 'pixie cat,' the Devon Rex is mischievous, playful, and intensely social. They bond deeply with their families and dislike being left alone for long periods.
Ideal Weight
2.7-4.5 kg
Height
25-30 cm
Activity Level
High (Working/Athletic)
Life Expectancy
9-15 yrs
Feeding Guide
Devon Rex cats have higher energy demands relative to their small size and benefit from nutrient-dense, high-protein diets. They can be food-motivated and prone to scavenging, so secure storage of food and measured portions are important. Two to three small meals per day suits their fast metabolism.
Water Needs
Devon Rex cats benefit from consistent hydration to support kidney function. Their active, warm-bodied nature means they may need slightly more water than sedentary breeds; a drinking fountain is often well received.
Exercise Guide
Devon Rex cats are highly active and need daily interactive play of at least 20–30 minutes. They enjoy climbing, jumping, and learning tricks or games with their owners. Puzzle toys and agility-style play are excellent enrichment for this clever breed.
Common Health Issues in Devon Rexs
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Hereditary myopathy (Devon Rex myopathy)
- Patellar luxation
- Dental disease
- Skin oiliness and seborrhea
These are conditions commonly associated with the breed, not a diagnosis for your individual pet.
Devon Rex Calorie Calculator
Estimated Daily Calories
273 kcal
0.8
Cups / day
94
Grams / day
Based on a generic 350 kcal/cup food. Use the full Calorie Calculator to enter your food's exact calorie density.
Devon Rex FAQs
How much should I feed a Devon Rex?
Devon Rex cats have higher energy demands relative to their small size and benefit from nutrient-dense, high-protein diets. They can be food-motivated and prone to scavenging, so secure storage of food and measured portions are important. Two to three small meals per day suits their fast metabolism. For a personalized daily calorie and portion estimate based on your Devon Rex's exact weight, age, and activity level, use the calculator above or our full Calorie Calculator.
How much exercise does a Devon Rex need?
Devon Rexs generally have high exercise needs. Devon Rex cats are highly active and need daily interactive play of at least 20–30 minutes. They enjoy climbing, jumping, and learning tricks or games with their owners. Puzzle toys and agility-style play are excellent enrichment for this clever breed.
How much water does a Devon Rex need?
Devon Rex cats benefit from consistent hydration to support kidney function. Their active, warm-bodied nature means they may need slightly more water than sedentary breeds; a drinking fountain is often well received. As a general guideline, most cats need roughly 50-60 ml of water per kg of body weight daily -- use our Water Intake Calculator for an estimate based on your pet's exact weight.
What health issues are common in Devon Rexs?
Devon Rexs are commonly associated with Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), Hereditary myopathy (Devon Rex myopathy), Patellar luxation, Dental disease, and Skin oiliness and seborrhea. This is general educational information, not a diagnosis -- regular veterinary checkups are the best way to catch and manage breed-related conditions early.
How big does a Devon Rex get?
A fully grown Devon Rex typically weighs 2.7-4.5 kg (6-10 lbs) and stands about 25-30 cm (10-12 in) tall at the shoulder, with a typical life expectancy of 9-15 years.
Medical Disclaimer
This tool provides general, educational estimates and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Breed-based estimates for the Devon Rex are general guidance and vary by individual dog or cat. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's specific health needs before making changes to their diet, water intake, or care routine.
Related Cat Breeds
Compare the Devon Rex to Another Breed
From the Blog
Devon Rex Feeding Guide
The Devon Rex is a small but energetic cat with a faster-than-average metabolism and a tendency toward food scavenging. This guide covers daily portions, meal frequency, and breed-specific feeding considerations.
Devon Rex Ideal Weight Guide
Adult Devon Rex cats typically weigh between 2.7 and 4.5 kg (6–10 lb). Their slender, angular build can make weight assessment challenging — here's how to tell if your Devon Rex is at a healthy weight.
Devon Rex Growth Chart: What to Expect
Devon Rex cats follow the standard feline growth trajectory, reaching adult size by approximately 12 months. Learn what healthy weight milestones look like for this slender, active breed and what to watch during kittenhood.
How Many Calories Should a Devon Rex Eat?
The Devon Rex is small but active, with higher calorie needs per kilogram than many sedentary breeds. This guide provides practical daily calorie estimates and explains how the breed's food-motivated nature affects feeding decisions.
Devon Rex Kitten Guide
Devon Rex kittens are mischievous, people-oriented, and nutritionally demanding. This guide covers feeding, growth milestones, socialization, and health monitoring for the first year of a Devon Rex kitten's life.
Devon Rex Senior Care Guide
Devon Rex cats are generally considered senior at around 11 years. This guide covers the breed-specific health conditions to watch for in older Devon Rex cats, and how to adapt feeding, play, and veterinary care as they age.
More Tools
Calorie Calculator
Full calorie calculator with custom food density.
Weight Checker
Check if your Devon Rex is at a healthy weight.
Body Condition Score Calculator
Assess your Devon Rex's body condition with a simple visual score.
Cat Age Calculator
Convert your Devon Rex's age into human years.
Water Intake Calculator
Estimate how much water your Devon Rex needs daily.
All Cat Breeds
Browse the top 20 cat breeds.