Devon Rex vs Sphynx: A Cat Coat Comparison

Cat Breeds & Comparisons Olivia Pierce March 19, 2025

When looking for cats with striking looks and unique qualities, the Devon Rex and Sphynx often top the list.

These two cat breeds stand out from typical house cats with their special physical traits and winning personalities.

Both make loving family pets, yet they have key differences in their coats, care needs, and behaviors.

This blog compares these two special breeds to help you decide which might be the right match for your home and lifestyle.

By looking at their physical traits, personalities, and the care they need, you can make a smart choice about which cat fits your life best.

Key Differences Between Devon Rex and Sphynx

Feature	Devon Rex	Sphynx
Coat Type	Short, soft, curly coat with minimal shedding	Almost hairless with fine down that feels like suede
Coat Maintenance	Less frequent grooming, but still needs care to prevent oil buildup	Weekly cleaning required to remove skin oils
Weight	6-9 pounds	6-12 pounds
Height	10-12 inches tall	8-10 inches tall
Body Type	Slim build with longer legs	More muscular, solid build
Special Needs	Climbing spaces for activity, some warmth needs	Extra warm spots, sun protection

Comparing Personality and Behavior

Playfulness and Sociability

With their friendly natures, both Devon Rex and Sphynx cats bring joy to homes. They form strong bonds with their families and want to be involved in daily activities.

The Devon Rex enjoys playing games and will often follow you from room to room. They’re known to start games of fetch and hide-and-seek with their owners.

Sphynx cats also love to play, but they take the social connection to another level. They often greet guests at the door and want to be part of every conversation.

Both breeds work well in multi-pet homes and can become good friends with cats and even dogs when properly introduced.

Temperament and Compatibility 

Devon Rex

Devon Rex cats have an active, sometimes silly personality.

They’re often called the “clowns” of the cat world because they perform antics to get attention.

They’re quite vocal and may “talk” to you throughout the day.

Their high energy means they enjoy climbing to high spots and watching the action from above.

Sphynx Cats

Sphynx cats are known for their deep loyalty. They often act more like dogs than cats in how they stick close to their owners.

They’ll supervise your activities and may even try to “help” with household tasks.

Their need for warmth means they often seek out laps and will happily curl up under blankets with you.

Compatibility with Children and Other Pets

Devon Rex cats do well with children thanks to their playful nature and high energy.

They can keep up with active kids and don’t mind the noise and movement. Their sturdy but light build makes them good playmates who can handle gentle play.

Sphynx cats also do well with children but may be more likely to seek quiet time on a lap. They form strong bonds with kids who give them attention and warmth.

Both breeds typically get along with other pets, including dogs, when introduced properly.

Their social nature means they often enjoy having animal companions rather than being the only pet.

Health Considerations

Common Health Issues

Devon Rex cats may develop several health concerns that owners should watch for. These include hip problems that can affect movement and comfort as they age.

They can also develop heart conditions that require regular vet checkups. Their thin coats might cause skin irritation if not kept clean.

Sphynx cats have their own set of health challenges. Without fur to protect them, they often get skin issues, including rashes, irritation, and even sunburn.

They need careful skin care to prevent oil buildup, which can lead to blackheads and acne-like problems. Like the Devon Rex, they can also develop heart problems that require monitoring.

Both breeds should have regular vet checkups to catch any potential issues early.

Lifespan Comparison

Devon Rex cats typically live between 9 and 15 years when well cared for. Proper care and nutrition tend to improve their overall health.

Sphynx cats have a similar lifespan, averaging around 8-14 years. With good care, proper nutrition, and regular vet visits, many live into their mid-teens.

For both breeds, indoor living significantly extends their lifespan by protecting them from outdoor dangers like traffic, other animals, and disease exposure.

Genetic Differences and Implications

Both breeds get their unique coats from genetic mutations in the same gene, though the specific mutations differ.

The Devon Rex has a recessive gene that creates their curly coat pattern, while the Sphynx has a different mutation that results in their nearly hairless condition.

When considering mixed breeding, it’s important to know that these genes don’t blend – they follow specific patterns of inheritance.

Mixing these breeds won’t create a “middle ground” coat type but will follow the dominant/recessive patterns of the genes involved.

The genetic makeup of both breeds can make them more sensitive to cold temperatures and sun exposure than cats with normal coats, so special care is needed regardless of which breed you choose.

Grooming and Care

Devon Rex Grooming Needs

The Devon Rex needs less grooming than many other cats. Their short, curly coat doesn’t shed much, which means less cat hair on your furniture and clothes.

However, they still need some care:

• Gentle wiping with a soft cloth once a week helps remove loose hairs and dirt
• Using a soft brush occasionally helps prevent tangles in their curly fur
• Bathing is only needed when they get dirty, about once every month or two
• Their large ears need weekly cleaning to prevent wax buildup

Despite their low-maintenance coat, Devon Rex cats can have oily skin. This means their fur might get greasy if not cleaned regularly, which can lead to skin problems if ignored.

Sphynx Grooming Needs

The Sphynx might not have much hair, but they need more grooming than most people expect:

• Weekly baths are necessary to remove oil buildup on their skin
• Use cat-specific shampoo that won’t dry out their skin
• Gently clean between skin folds where dirt and oil collect
• Clean their ears weekly as they produce more ear wax than other cats
• Wipe them down with a soft cloth between baths to remove body oils

Without fur to absorb body oils, Sphynx cats can leave oily marks on furniture and bedding.

Regular cleaning helps prevent this and keeps their skin healthy.

Skin Care

Sphynx cats need special skin care beyond regular bathing:

• Apply pet-safe moisturizer to dry areas as recommended by your vet
• Protect them from direct sunlight to prevent sunburn
• Keep them warm with sweaters and heated beds during cold weather
• Clean between skin folds to prevent irritation
• Check for blackheads around the tail and chin areas

Devon Rex cats also need skin monitoring but to a lesser extent. Their thin coat provides some protection but can’t fully shield them from sun exposure or cold temperatures.

Conclusion

When choosing between a Devon Rex and a Sphynx cat, consider your lifestyle and what you want in a pet.

Devon Rex cats need less grooming but still have a soft, curly coat.

They’re playful, energetic, and good climbers. Sphynx cats require more skin care with weekly baths but offer a unique, almost hairless look.

They’re extremely affectionate and often seek human warmth. Both breeds make loving family pets, get along with children and other animals, and have similar lifespans of 8-15 years.

Your choice depends on your preference for coat type, grooming time, and whether you want a more independent or clingy companion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Sphynx and Devon Rex the Same Breed?

No, they are different breeds. Sphynx cats have no fur, while Devon Rex cats have short, wavy fur.

Which Breed is Easier to Care for, Devon Rex or Sphynx?

Devon Rex is easier to care for as Sphynx cats need regular skin cleaning and protection from sunburn.

Can a Sphynx and Devon Rex Live Together?

Yes, Sphynx and Devon Rex cats can live together happily as both breeds are social and have similar personalities.