Yes, Devon Rex cats are considered hypoallergenic due to their short fur, which sheds significantly less than other breeds. They only have the soft down hair that makes up most cats’ undercoats. They are a great option for people who have mild cat allergies.
A truly hypoallergenic cat does not exist because all cats have the protein allergen Fel D1 in their saliva, though cats are often referred to as hypoallergenic if they shed a little or not at all and if they produce lower levels of the allergen.
Devon Rex cats are considered hypoallergenic due to their wavy coat that does not shed much, which minimizes the spread of dander and other allergens in your home. With the proper grooming, the chances of eliciting an allergic reaction becomes even less.
If you or anyone you know is interested in taking a Devon Rex cat home, keep reading.
What is a Devon Rex cat?
The Devon Rex is a small to medium sized cat that may weigh between five to ten pounds. They have a short, wavy coat that may come in the colors white, black, blue, red, cream, chocolate, lavender, cinnamon, and fawn plus various patterns and shadings. The soft and curly coat on the Devon Rex is unusual because they lack of fur in some areas, specifically areas that they can lick. The coat is fragile and even grooming can cause the fur to break off completely.
They have a dainty, impish face with large, inquisitive eyes, short whiskers and eyebrows. Their head is triangular and the nose appears to change direction right below the eyes. Their butterfly ears, along with the other distinctive facial features, give the breed an elfish or pixie-like look.
Devon Rex Personality
The Devon’s favorite perch is right at eye level, on the shoulder of their favorite person. They take a lively interest in everything that is going on and refuse to be left out of any activity. Count on them to stay as close to you as possible, occasionally communicating their opinions in a quiet voice. They love people and welcome the attention of friends and family alike.
Because of their curly coat and tail that wags when they are happy, the breed is sometimes referred to as the poodle of the cat world.
This is a smart cat with a moderate activity level. They may not be in constant motion, but they like to learn tricks and play fetch. Puzzles and interactive toys are a delight to their inventive brains and will help keep them occupied while you are outside the house.
At mealtime, the Devon will try to seat themselves at the dining room table with the rest of the family, thinking that the food you just prepared is all for them.
They prefer to sleep under the covers like a heat-seeking missile. They will target the warmest spots they can find.
If you enjoy the company of a mischievous and agile cat, and will not be alarmed at seeing a cat peering down at you from atop a door, then you might love the Devon Rex.
Do Devon Rex cats make good pets?
Devons make wonderful pets for people of all ages. Their friendly yet playful nature makes them suitable for families with children.
As they love to demand attention, they are best suited for people that have a lot of time for them. They may have a hard time thriving in a household where they are constantly being left alone. They will become lonely and bored, and might even become destructive.
It is a social breed that loves nothing more than to play and cuddle.
How much do Devon Rex cats shed?
The Devon Rex cat is a low-shedding breed. Their delicate coat requires only occasional grooming to keep it healthy and to reduce any shedding. Due to their short, thin coat, they may need an occasional bath to reduce buildup of sebaceous oils.
What if I have cat allergies but I would like to get a Devon Rex cat?
Before getting a Devon Rex cat of your own, try to spend time with one and see how you react. Seek out friends or breeders with Devons and spend a couple of hours interacting with both adult cats and kittens.
This step is vital because if you get a Devon Rex immediately and then realize that it is not a good fit, you risk having to rehome the poor kitty.
Tips for reducing dander and allergens
Grooming
The Devon Rex is a low-shedding cat who does not need that much grooming. Brushing their delicate fur once or twice a week is enough to keep it healthy but infrequent enough to not break their fur. Bathing is not necessary for keeping the dander and loose hairs down, but it can help remove the sebaceous oils on their fur. Wiping your cat with a damp towel may be enough to clean them every couple of weeks.
Diet
Feed your cat a breed-appropriate diet to make sure that they are consuming the necessary amount of nutrients. Make sure that they are well hydrated at all times so their skin does not dry out. Give them high-quality cat food with Omega 3 to keep their skin and coat healthy.
Wash your hands after touching them
Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after every physical interaction with your cat. This is to make sure that you do not accidentally touch your face with your hands covered in allergens and trigger an allergic reaction.
Keep your cat out of the bedroom
Keep your cats out of your bedroom so that you have a space in your house that you can be sure is free of dander and allergens. Make sure that you change your clothes before getting into bed.
Cleaning is key
Wipe down surfaces around your house, like tabletops and floors, because dander may have floated in the air and settled. The Fel D1 protein that causes the allergy does not dissipate immediately and can just hang out in your home’s environment for long periods of time. So, vacuum often and use a microfiber cloth to gather dust and dander more effectively. If your budget allows it, invest in an air purifier to filter the air inside your home.
Medication
If none of the above tips work, you can always ask your physician about the most effective method of applying antihistamine medication for you.
Conclusion
The Devon Rex cat is considered a hypoallergenic cat because they are low-shedders who have thin coats. They are ideal cats for those who have mild allergies.
In order to successfully keep a Devon as a pet, you should groom them twice a week by brushing their delicate fur gently and giving them a bath every couple of weeks to lessen their dander. Wiping their fur with a damp towel can do the trick as well.
Feed your cat a breed-appropriate diet to ensure that they are receiving necessary nutrients. Make sure they have access to fresh water all day.
Be sure to keep your abode clean of allergens and dander by frequently vacuuming and wiping surfaces with a microfiber cloth and keeping your cat out of your bedroom.
If you follow these tips, you and your Devon Rex could have a harmonious relationship.
Image: istockphoto.com / Thomas Leirikh