The Devon Rex is a captivating breed with a unique appearance and an intriguing history. Its story begins in the 1950s in Buckfastleigh, Devon, England. It all started with a stray cat named Kirlee, who had a distinctive curly coat. Kirlee caught the attention of Miss Beryl Cox, who lived in an abandoned tin mine in Buckfastleigh. She was intrigued by Kirlee’s unusual appearance and decided to adopt her.
Kirlee mated with a local tomcat, and from this union, a litter of kittens was born, some of whom also had the distinctive wavy fur. One of these kittens, named Kirlee’s Son, caught the eye of breeder Mrs. Cox, who began selectively breeding him and his offspring to establish the Devon Rex breed.
The Devon Rex’s unique coat is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the hair shaft, resulting in a curly or wavy texture. This mutation is different from that of the Cornish Rex, another curly-coated breed. While the Cornish Rex mutation affects the guard hairs, the Devon Rex mutation affects all three layers of fur: guard, awn, and down.
Throughout the 1960s, breeders in England and the United States worked to develop and refine the Devon Rex breed. The breed gained recognition from cat fancier associations, such as The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
The Devon Rex’s playful and affectionate nature, combined with its striking appearance, quickly won over cat lovers around the world. The breed’s popularity grew steadily, and today, it is cherished by cat enthusiasts everywhere.
Despite their popularity, Devon Rex cats remain relatively rare compared to some other breeds. Breeders continue to work to maintain and improve the breed while ensuring the health and welfare of these unique and beloved cats.
The Devon Rex’s history is a tale of curiosity, innovation, and dedication, resulting in the creation of a breed that captivates and delights cat lovers around the globe.