Devon Rex vs. Cornish Rex: What’s the Difference?

Find out the difference between Devon Rex kittens and Cornish Rex kittens and what makes them both unique breeds.

If you’re searching for Devon Rex vs. Cornish Rex or just looking to understand the differences between these two breeds, you’ve come to the right place. Both are curly-coated, large-eared, playful cats, and though they both came from seperate spontaneous mutations that gave them a curly coat, in the same global geographic region.... they are not the same.

This article will help you decide which breed is right for your home and why breed differences lead to more choice, and that can be a good thing.

Devon Rex vs Cornish Rex: Appearance Differences

Devon Rex Cats

• Short, soft, suede-like coat with loose, wavy curls

• “Pixie” facial features with large, low-set ears

• Muscular, compact body type on lithe limbs

• Huge, expressive eyes

  
  

Cornish Rex Cats

• Very short, tight, uniform waves on a slender, sleek body

• High-set ears and narrow, elegant face

• Long, slim, almost “greyhound-like” body

• Fine, minimal coat

  
  

Key takeaway: Both breeds have unique coat genes. Devon Rex kittens have a soft, whimsical coat and compact body that many families may find more sturdy cuddle-friendly, while Cornish Rex kittens are sleeker, and more athletic.

Personality: Devon Rex vs Cornish Rex

Devon Rex Personality:

• Playful, mischievous, and affectionate

• Strong attachment to people (“velcro cats”)

• Adaptable to families, children, and other pets

• Active without being hyperactive (especially once mature)

  
  

Cornish Rex Personality:

• Extremely high-energy, athletic, and curious

• Great climbers and jumpers

• Social but driven by activity rather than mainly companionship

  
  

Why it matters: Both breeds are affectionate and intelligent. Devon Rex kittens are ideal for families seeking a playful, outgoing companion cat who are curious imps, whereas Cornish Rex kittens often suit highly active homes.

Grooming and Care

Devon Rex Cats:

• Coat ranges from sparse to wavy (presuming you are getting from an ethical breeder who cares about the standard, most kittens will be closer to wavy/curly but even out of standard sparseness can happen on occasion).

• Regular ear cleaning recommended

• Mild-Moderate grooming needs

  
  

Cornish Rex Cats:

• Ultra-fine, short coat that requires warmth

• Low shedding but higher sensitivity to cold

• More careful environmental considerations

  
  

Health Considerations

Both breeds are generally healthy when bred responsibly.

• Devon Rex: Watch for HCM, hereditary myopathy; requires responsible genetic screening and echocardiogram testing.

• Cornish Rex: High metabolism, potential dental issues, HCM can occur

• Ethical breeders provide health testing, vaccination, and ongoing support

Why We Raise and Show Devon Rex Kittens at PureX

We love all cats, Cornish Rex cats included, but for our home cattery, Devon Rex kittens are the best fit:

• Deeply affectionate and human-oriented

• Playful yet balanced energy level

• Expressive faces and whimsical personalities

• Due to their social nature, they are good considerations for families, couples, or even the occasional single-cat homes (if there are plenty of attention from people or cat-friendly dogs for instance).

Our goal is to raise healthy, socialized Devon Rex kittens that thrive in loving homes. But having choice is a good thing. It allows the best possible matches to be made.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Choose a Devon Rex if you want:

• A cuddly, affectionate companion

• Playful but not hyperactive energy (especially once matured)

• Quirky personality and strong human bond

• Their energy level fits many possible households.

Choose a Cornish Rex if you want:

• A high-energy, athletic, and playful cat

• Sleek, long, and elegant body type

Remember: There is what is normal for the breed, and then there is the individual kitten. Predictability is the strongest reason for a potential new home to consider a pedigreed kitten. So most Devon kittens should fit the breed description, and most Cornish Rex Kittens will fit theirs, but there is always something to be said for an individual cat. A more independant Devon Rex, or a more relaxed and cuddly Cornish Rex for instance. They do happen from time to time. Always discuss the individual personality of any cat/kitten you are looking at with their breeder.

So which is your winner: Devon Rex vs. Cornish Rex ? Both breeds are extraordinary, unique, and loving. Choosing between Devon Rex kittens and Cornish Rex cats is about lifestyle, energy level, and what kind of bond you want.

At PureX, we devote our time to Devon Rex!