If you’ve seen photos of curly-coated companions with big ears and slim bodies, you’ve probably wondered, ” Are they the same breed? Two breeds cause this confusion more than any others. At first glance, their wavy fur and slender build look identical. But their history, body type, and personality are completely different.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know before choosing one. No fluff, no repeated words. Just clear facts about origin, looks, behavior, and care. By the end, you’ll know which one fits your home and lifestyle better.
Origin and History: Two Different Mutations
Cornish Rex
The first curly-coated cat appeared in Cornwall, England, in 1950. A farm cat gave birth to a kitten named Kallibunker with unusual wavy fur. Breeders noticed it immediately. Through selective breeding, that single mutation became a recognized breed known for soft, short, rippled coats.
The name came from the region plus “Rex”—a term used for all curly-haired animals after Rex rabbits. So the Cornwall breed got labeled based on location + coat type.
Devon Rex
Ten years later, another curly kitten showed up in Devon, England. At first, breeders thought it was the same mutation. But when they bred the two together, the kittens had straight fur. That proved it was a separate genetic mutation entirely.
DNA testing later confirmed it. Same look, different genes. That’s why vets and breeders treat them as two distinct breeds today, even though they look like cousins.
Both breeds came from natural mutations, not lab breeding. That’s why their gene pool stayed relatively healthy compared to extreme breeds.
Coat and Texture: Cornish Rex vs. Devon Rex
This is where most people get confused. Both have curly fur, but the feel is totally different.
Cornish Rex: The coat is extremely short, fine, and silky. No guard hairs at all. When you pet it, it feels like crushed velvet or suede. The waves are tight and even all over the body. Because there’s no top coat, skin shows through slightly in some areas.
Devon Rex: The coat is also short but much more textured. Think “tousled” or “messy” waves. Some areas look curlier, some look straighter. The fur stands up more and has a rougher feel. You’ll often see patchy spots where fur grows in different directions.
Both lack a heavy top coat, which means less shedding than regular breeds. But it also means they get cold easily and need warm spots in winter.
Body Structure: Greyhound vs Pixie Build
Beyond the fur, their bodies tell them apart instantly once you know what to look for.
First breed build: Think elegance. Long, slender body with an arched back. Legs are long and thin. The tail is whip-like and long. The overall silhouette looks like a miniature greyhound. The chest is narrow, and the shoulders are delicate. This breed moves with athletic grace.
Second breed build: More compact and muscular. Shorter legs, wider chest, rounder belly. The body is sturdy but still light. The tail is shorter and thicker than the other one. This breed looks strong and playful, not delicate.
Weight is similar—6 to 10 lbs for both. But the compact build makes the second breed look heavier even at the same weight.
Face and Head Shape: Roman Nose vs Elf Ears
The face is the biggest giveaway. Put them side by side, and the difference is obvious.
First breed face: high cheekbones, straight Roman nose, oval eyes set slightly slanted. The head is egg-shaped with no flat planes. Ears are large but proportionate. The overall look is red. The second breed’s face is
Second breed face: completely different. Huge, low-set ears that look too big for the head. Short, broad muzzle. Eyes are wide-set and large, giving a “surprised” expression. The head is a modified wedge. People call it the “pixie” or “elf” look because it seems mischievous.
Those oversized ears aren’t just cute—they help regulate body heat since both breeds have thin coats.
Personality: Athlete vs Class Clown
Energy levels are high in both, but the way they use it differs a lot.
First Breed Temperament
These cats are athletes. They jump, run, climb, and chase toys for hours. They stay kitten-like until old age. People call them “greyhounds of the feline world” because they love speed and agility.
They bond deeply with their humans b, but in a calm way. They follow you room to room, sit near you, and prefer being part of daily life. They’re affectionate without being clingy. Great for active families who want a smart, engaged companion.
They learn tricks fast and enjoy puzzle toys. Boredom leads to trouble, so daily play is non-negotiable.
Second Breed Temperament
Just as energetic, but way more mischievous. This breed is the class clown. They open cabinets, hide your keys, and invent games on the spot. Smart and curious to a fault.
They crave human attention constantly. Leave them alone for 8 hours, and they’ll redecorate your house. They do best in homes with people around or with another pet for company.
Their play style is goofy. They’ll play fetch, roll on their back, and make funny faces. If you want entertainment 24/7, this is your breed.
Both breeds hate being ignored. They’re not independent like some short-haired breeds. They want interaction and mental stimulation daily.
Grooming and Care Needs
Good news: neither needs brushing like long-haired breeds. Bad news: their skin needs special care.
First breed care: The velvet coat traps body oils. Without guard hairs to absorb them, skin gets oily fast. Wipe down weekly with a soft, damp cloth. Use a gentle, cat-safe wipe. Too much bathing dries skin; too little causes greasy buildup.
Second breed care: Less oily but more sensitive. The messy coat can develop bald spots if overgroomed. Brush only once every 2 weeks with a soft rubber brush. Check ears often—big ears collect wax.
For both breeds:
- Keep home temperature at 70°F+ in winter. They chill fast.
- Provide warm blankets and heated beds. They’ll burrow under them.
- Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic shampoo if you must bathe. Once every 2-3 months max.
- Protect from direct sun. Thin coats sunburn easily.
Because they have less fur, allergens like dander spread more. Regular cleaning helps. Some allergy sufferers report fewer reactions, but no breed is truly hypoallergenic.
Health and Lifespan
Both breeds live 12-15 years on average with good care. Since they came from natural mutations, genetic issues are fewer than in inbred breeds. But a few conditions show up more often.
First Breed Health
Main concerns: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and patellar luxation. HCM is a heart condition common in many breeds. Patellar luxation means the kneecap slips out of place. Responsible breeders test for both.
Also watch for skin issues due to oil buildup. Yearly vet checks catch problems early.
Second Breed Health
Main concerns: hereditary myopathy and skin sensitivity. Myopathy causes muscle weakness in rare cases. Skin issues happen because thin coats offer less protection. Ear infections are more common, too, due to a large ear size. Clean ears monthly with a vet-approved solution.
For both breeds, get pet insurance early. Vet bills add up if issues appear. Cornell Feline Health Center has detailed info on HCM if you want to research more.
Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?
Choosing between them comes down to your daily routine and personality, not just looks.
Choose the first breed if you want: A sleek, athletic companion who loves activity but stays calm indoors. Perfect if you work from home and want a smart pet that learns tricks. They’re quieter and more graceful. Great with kids who play gently.
Choose the second breed if you want: A goofy entertainer who keeps you laughing. Perfect if your home is always busy and you can give lots of attention. They’re louder, sillier, and more demanding. Great with families and other pets.
Both adapt well to apartments if you provide climbing trees and toys. Both need warmth. Both bond intensely with humans. The difference is style—athlete vs. comedian.
Mixing with other pets works well for both if socialized early. Their playful nature makes them good companions for dogs and other cats.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Cornwall Breed | Devon Breed |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Cornwall, England – 1950 | Devon, England – 1960 |
| Coat Feel | Short, silky, velvet-like | Wavy, tousled, textured |
| Body Type | Sleek, long-legged, arched back | Compact, muscular, shorter legs |
| Face Shape | Egg-shaped, Roman nose, oval eyes | Wedge-shaped, big ears, round eyes |
| Personality | Active, graceful, affectionate | Mischievous, clownish, attention-seeking |
| Grooming | Wipe oils weekly, minimal brushing | Light brushing and ear cleaning monthly |
| Main Health Risks | HCM, patellar luxation | Hereditary myopathy, skin issues |
| Best For | Active owners wanting calm elegance | Families wanting constant entertainment |
FAQs
1. Do these curly breeds shed less?
Yes, both shed less than standard breeds because they lack guard hairs. But “less” doesn’t mean “none.” You’ll still find fine fur on furniture. Regular wiping reduces it.
2. Are they good for allergy sufferers?
Some people report fewer reactions because less fur means less dander spread. But AAA confirms no breed is hypoallergenic. Spend time with one before adopting if allergies are severe.
3. Which is easier to care for?
Grooming is easy for both—10 minutes weekly. The real care is temperature control and playtime. If you want lower maintenance, neither is ideal. If you want interaction, both are perfect.
4. Can they live with other pets?
Yes, both breeds are social. Introduce slowly. The second breed especially loves having a playmate. Just make sure other pets are gentle since their skin is sensitive.
5. How much do they cost?
From ethical breeders: $800-$1200. The price is similar for both. Avoid “cheap” listings—they often skip health testing. Rescue adoption is cheaper but rare for these breeds.
Final Thoughts
At first glance, these two look like twins. But once you live with one, the differences become obvious. One is the elegant athlete. The other is the mischievous comedian.
Neither is “better.” They’re just different. The right choice depends on whether you want graceful companionship or nonstop entertainment.
Both need warmth, play, and human interaction. If you can provide that, either breed will give you 12+ years of loyalty, laughs, and love.
Visit a breeder or shelter and spend 30 minutes with each. Your gut will tell you which personality fits your home. That’s always better than picking based on photos alone.