Hi, Dave here from Vivid Happy. Rex cats are one of the most striking and captivating feline breeds available today.
With their distinctive curly coats, playful personalities, and affectionate nature, they’re increasingly becoming a favorite among cat lovers.
But not all Rex cats are the same. The three most well-known breeds—the Cornish Rex, Devon Rex, and Selkirk Rex—each have unique traits, personalities, and care needs that can dramatically affect whether they’re the right fit for your home.
If you’re considering adding a Rex cat to your family, understanding the differences between these breeds can save you time, money, and heartache. This guide explores their history, appearance, temperament, health considerations, grooming needs, and costs to help you make an informed decision.
1. History and Origins
Cornish Rex: Originating in Cornwall, England, in 1950, the Cornish Rex emerged from a natural genetic mutation. The breed is characterized by its slender, elegant frame and short, wavy coat. Originally, breeders were drawn to the Cornish Rex for its unique appearance and playful personality. Over time, the breed became a favorite for those seeking a high-energy, highly social cat that craves human attention.
Devon Rex: The Devon Rex was discovered shortly after, in Devon, England, in 1960. Unlike the Cornish, the Devon Rex has a pixie-like face, large ears, and an even more playful, mischievous demeanor. The breed was cultivated to be a friendly, affectionate companion, especially suitable for families with children or other pets.
Selkirk Rex: A more recent addition, the Selkirk Rex originated in Montana, USA, in the late 1980s. This breed’s hallmark is its plush, curly coat, often described as woolly.
While the Cornish and Devon are known for their slender, almost delicate frames, the Selkirk is robust, with a stockier body. Bred for both personality and appearance, the Selkirk is often lauded for its gentle temperament, making it ideal for quieter households.
2. Physical Traits
Cornish Rex: The Cornish Rex is a slim, athletic cat with long legs and an elongated body. Its coat is extremely short, soft, and wavy, consisting only of the downy undercoat. Cornish Rex cats have large ears, high cheekbones, and almond-shaped eyes, giving them a striking, almost otherworldly appearance.
Devon Rex: Devon Rex cats are slightly more compact than Cornish, with a rounded, pixie-like face, large expressive eyes, and prominent ears. Their coat is soft, short, and curly, though the curls tend to be looser and more delicate than the Cornish.
Selkirk Rex: The Selkirk Rex is distinguishable by its dense, plush curls that cover the entire body, including the whiskers. They have a more robust, stocky body compared to the lean Cornish or Devon, and their round face and softer features give them a teddy bear-like appearance. Grooming the Selkirk requires more attention due to the thicker coat, which can mat if not properly maintained.
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3. Temperament and Personality
Cornish Rex: Often described as “dog-like,” Cornish Rex cats are energetic, highly social, and constantly in motion. They thrive on interaction, enjoy games, and may even learn tricks or respond to simple commands. Cornish Rex cats rarely like being left alone for long periods, so they’re ideal for owners who spend a lot of time at home.
Devon Rex: The Devon Rex shares the Cornish’s playful nature but tends to be more gentle and affectionate. Known for their mischievous streak, they enjoy interactive play, exploring their environment, and cuddling with their owners. They adapt well to families with children or other pets, making them a popular choice for multi-pet households.
Selkirk Rex: In contrast, Selkirk Rex cats are calm, affectionate, and laid-back. While they enjoy playtime, they are less hyperactive than their Cornish or Devon counterparts. Their gentle demeanor makes them suitable for households with less activity, though they still enjoy attention and companionship.
4. Allergies and Hypoallergenic Considerations
Many prospective cat owners with mild allergies are drawn to Rex cats because of their reduced shedding.
Cornish and Devon Rex: These breeds have short, curly coats and minimal outer fur, which reduces the spread of dander around the home. While not truly hypoallergenic, many people who are allergic to cats report milder reactions with Cornish or Devon Rex. Regular grooming and cleaning further help mitigate allergic responses.
Selkirk Rex: While the Selkirk’s curly coat traps some dander, the thicker fur can still trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. People with severe cat allergies should spend time with Selkirk Rex cats before committing, and consider allergy management tools such as HEPA filters, regular bathing, and anti-allergen litter.
5. Care and Grooming Needs
Cornish Rex: Grooming is minimal due to the short coat. A light brushing once a week is often sufficient, and occasional baths help remove excess oils.
Devon Rex: Similarly low-maintenance, the Devon Rex requires gentle brushing and regular cleaning of ears and nails.
Selkirk Rex: The Selkirk’s dense coat requires more attention. Regular brushing—at least twice a week—is necessary to prevent matting, along with occasional baths. All Rex breeds benefit from regular dental care, nail trimming, and monitoring for skin issues.
6. Health Considerations
All three Rex breeds are generally healthy but have some breed-specific risks:
- Cornish Rex: Prone to heart conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). They may also have sensitive skin due to the lack of a full coat.
- Devon Rex: Also susceptible to HCM and occasional joint issues. They may require extra warmth in cooler climates due to their thin coat.
- Selkirk Rex: More robust but can develop polycystic kidney disease or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Their thicker coat may hide skin issues, so routine checks are important.
Reputable breeders perform health screenings to minimize genetic issues and ensure kittens are raised in optimal conditions.
7. Costs and Adoption Tips
Rex cats are typically more expensive than regular domestic cats due to breeding, health testing, and rarity:
- Cornish Rex: $1,500–$3,000 depending on pedigree and location.
- Devon Rex: $1,500–$2,500.
- Selkirk Rex: $1,500–$3,500.
Adoption from a shelter or rescue can be an alternative, though Rex breeds are less commonly found outside of specialized breeders. Always ensure you’re working with reputable breeders who provide health guarantees and lineage information.
8. Which Rex is Right for You?
Choosing the right Rex breed depends on your lifestyle, home environment, and priorities:
- Cornish Rex: Perfect for active owners who want a highly social, energetic cat that craves constant interaction. Ideal for single adults or families at home most of the day.
- Devon Rex: Suited for families and social households. Affectionate, playful, and adaptable to children and other pets.
- Selkirk Rex: Best for quieter homes or owners who want a playful but calm companion. Their gentle temperament fits well with seniors or owners looking for a more relaxed feline presence.
All Rex breeds thrive on companionship and interactive play. For households with allergies, Cornish or Devon may be better choices, while Selkirk requires careful testing for sensitive individuals.
Conclusion
Rex cats are among the most charming, unique, and affectionate breeds available. Each breed—Cornish, Devon, and Selkirk—offers distinct physical traits, personalities, and care needs, meaning that one size does not fit all. Understanding these differences is crucial for any prospective owner looking to make a long-term commitment.
By considering your lifestyle, family situation, allergy concerns, and willingness to engage in grooming and care, you can choose the Rex breed that best complements your home. Meeting cats in person before adopting is always recommended, ensuring a lifelong, happy partnership between you and your new feline companion.