If you’re considering getting a Devon Rex cat, you might be wondering about their temperament and behavior. Are Devon Rex cats mean? The truth is, no, Devon Rex cats are not inherently mean. However, as with any breed, individual cats can exhibit certain behaviors that may be misinterpreted as aggression or meanness. In this section, we’ll dive into the unique personality, behavior, and temperament of the Devon Rex cat breed, so you can better understand their disposition.
Key Takeaways:
- Devon Rex cats are not inherently mean.
- Individual cats may exhibit behaviors that are misinterpreted as meanness.
- Understanding the breed’s personality, behavior, and temperament is key to fostering a positive relationship with a Devon Rex cat.
Understanding the Devon Rex Cat Breed
If you are considering getting a Devon Rex cat, it’s essential to understand their behavior, temperament, and personality traits. Knowing these characteristics will help you understand your cat’s needs and how to best care for them.
Devon Rex cats are known for their playful and affectionate nature. Their unique personality traits set them apart from other cat breeds, making them a popular choice for pet lovers.
The Devon Rex cat behavior is often described as mischievous and energetic. They love to play and can be quite rambunctious at times. But despite their high energy levels, they are also incredibly cuddly and affectionate towards their owners.
Their temperament is generally friendly and outgoing, making them an ideal choice for families with children. However, they can be quite vocal and demand attention, often meowing for your affection.
The Devon Rex cat personality is often described as intelligent, curious, and adventurous. They love to explore and can be quite resourceful when it comes to getting into places they shouldn’t be in. They are also known to be quite social and enjoy the company of other cats and even dogs.

“The Devon Rex cat breed is known for their playful and affectionate nature, mischievous behavior, and resourcefulness.”
Aggression and Behavior Problems
Devon Rex cats are known for being intelligent and playful, but they can also exhibit behaviors that may be perceived as mean. In this section, we will explore some of the specific behaviors that may be concerning for owners, as well as some tips for addressing these issues.
Aggression towards Other Pets
Devon Rex cats can be territorial and may exhibit aggression towards other pets in the household. This behavior can be particularly prevalent if the cat feels threatened or if they are not properly socialized. It’s important to introduce new pets slowly and carefully, allowing them to get used to each other’s scents before any physical interaction occurs.
Behavior Problems
Behavior problems in Devon Rex cats can manifest in many ways. They may exhibit destructive behavior, such as scratching furniture or chewing on household items. They may also display inappropriate litter box behavior, such as refusing to use the litter box or urinating outside of it. If your Devon Rex cat is exhibiting these types of behaviors, it is important to address the underlying issue and provide appropriate training and guidance.
Devon Rex Cats and Children
Devon Rex cats can be great companions for children, but it’s important to supervise their interactions. Young children may unintentionally hurt the cat, leading to defensive or aggressive behavior. Teach children to be gentle with the cat and never to pull their tail or ears. If your cat does exhibit aggressive behavior towards children, it may be helpful to keep them separated and seek guidance from a professional animal behaviorist.
Vocalization and Body Language
Devon Rex cats are highly communicative, and their vocalizations and body language can provide insight into their mood and behavior. If your cat is meowing loudly or hissing, they may be feeling threatened or scared. Pay attention to their body language, such as flattened ears or a puffed-up tail, as these can also indicate aggression or fear.

Above is an example of a Devon Rex cat’s body language, where the cat is displaying a relaxed and curious posture with their ears perked up and tail held high.
To address any concerning behavior issues in your Devon Rex cat, it is important to understand their unique personality and provide appropriate training and guidance. Seek advice from a professional animal behaviorist if needed, and always supervise interactions with other pets and children.
Training and Socialization
Proper training and socialization are key to managing Devon Rex cats’ behavior, as they are highly intelligent and can benefit greatly from structured routines and positive reinforcement.
When it comes to training, repetition and consistency are key. Use treats and praise to reward desired behavior, and avoid punishment or negative reinforcement, as it may lead to fear and anxiety.
As for socialization, introducing your Devon Rex cat to new people, pets, and environments can help prevent fearfulness and aggression towards strangers and other animals. This can also be achieved through playtime, grooming, and regular interaction with your cat.
Communication
Understanding your Devon Rex cat’s communication methods is also crucial in shaping their behavior. These cats are known for their vocalizations, which can range from purring and trilling to meowing and chirping.
Moreover, Devon Rex cats use body language to convey their feelings and intentions. For example, an arched back and raised fur may indicate fear or aggression, while a relaxed posture and slow blinking can signal contentment.

Tip: Consider using pheromone diffusers or calming music to create a peaceful environment for your cat during training and socialization.
Fears and Anxiety
Like any other cat breed, Devon Rex cats can experience anxiety and fearfulness, which may affect their behavior. It’s important to understand these behaviors to ensure that your cat’s well-being is taken care of.
Anxiety
Devon Rex cats may suffer from anxiety due to changes in their environment, such as new people or pets at home. Signs of anxiety in Devon Rex cats include excessive grooming, hiding, or excessive vocalization. If left untreated, anxiety can negatively impact your cat’s quality of life and behavior.
Fearfulness
Devon Rex cats may also exhibit fearfulness in certain situations. Fearfulness can lead to aggressive or destructive behavior, which can be challenging for owners to manage. Signs of fearfulness in Devon Rex cats include hiding, hissing, or aggressive behavior.
Behavior Changes with Age
As Devon Rex cats age, their behavior may change. They may become less active and more prone to hiding or sleeping. Owners should monitor their cat’s behavior and make adjustments to their care and environment accordingly.

Managing Behavior and Providing Enrichment
Devon Rex cats are known for their playful and affectionate nature, but they can also exhibit behaviors that may be challenging for owners to manage. Let’s take a closer look at some common behaviors and strategies for managing them.
Devon Rex Cat Grooming Behavior
Devon Rex cats have a unique coat that requires regular grooming. While some cats enjoy being brushed, others may resist or become agitated. Here are some tips for managing grooming behavior:
- Start grooming at a young age to get your cat used to it.
- Use a soft brush or comb to avoid discomfort.
- Offer treats and praise to reward good behavior.
- Take breaks if your cat becomes restless or agitated.
Devon Rex Cat Destructive Behavior
Devon Rex cats are active and curious, and may sometimes exhibit destructive behavior such as scratching furniture or chewing on cords. Here are some strategies for managing destructive behavior:
- Provide appropriate scratching posts and toys to redirect their energy.
- Use deterrents such as double-sided tape or bitter sprays to discourage destructive behavior.
- Keep cords and other hazards out of reach.
- Supervise your cat during playtime.
Devon Rex Cat Behavior Towards Strangers
Devon Rex cats are generally friendly and sociable, but may be wary of strangers. Here are some tips for managing their behavior towards visitors:
- Introduce your cat to new people gradually, using positive reinforcement such as treats and praise.
- Provide a safe space for your cat to retreat to if they become overwhelmed.
- Avoid forcing interactions with strangers.
Devon Rex Cat Attention-Seeking Behavior
Devon Rex cats crave attention and may sometimes exhibit attention-seeking behavior such as meowing or pawing for attention. Here are some strategies for managing attention-seeking behavior:
- Offer plenty of playtime and interactive toys to keep your cat entertained.
- Establish a routine for play, meals, and sleep to help your cat feel secure and content.
- Ignore attention-seeking behavior when it is not feasible to engage with your cat.

By understanding your Devon Rex cat’s unique personality and providing appropriate training and enrichment, you can help foster a happy and harmonious life with your feline friend.
Conclusion
After exploring the behavior, temperament, and unique personality traits of Devon Rex cats, we can determine that they are not inherently mean. However, certain behaviors may be perceived as such, such as aggression towards other pets or hiding behavior.
By providing proper training and socialization, managing their behavior, and providing enrichment, Devon Rex cat owners can foster a harmonious relationship with their furry friends. It is important to understand their dietary needs, exercise requirements, sleeping habits, and social behavior to ensure their well-being.
Devon Rex cats can be independent but also enjoy interaction with their owners. They may be suitable for first-time owners, but it is important to consider their potential for aggression and behavior around children and dogs. Their behavior around water, climbing, territorial marking, and attention-seeking should also be taken into account.
Overall, Devon Rex cats are unique and playful companions that can bring joy and love to their owners with proper care and attention.
Do Devon Rex Cats Have a Tendency to be Mean if they are Not Hypoallergenic?
Devon Rex cats are known for being hypoallergenic, making them a popular choice for people with cat allergies. However, their hypoallergenic nature doesn’t impact their temperament. Devon Rex cats are not inherently mean if they are not hypoallergenic. Their personality traits depend on their individual upbringing and experiences, just like any other cat breed.
FAQ
Are Devon Rex cats mean?
No, Devon Rex cats are not inherently mean. They can exhibit certain behaviors that may be misinterpreted as mean, but understanding their breed characteristics and providing proper training and socialization can foster a harmonious relationship with these unique companions.
What are the characteristics of the Devon Rex cat breed?
Devon Rex cats are known for their playful and mischievous behavior. They are highly sociable and enjoy being the center of attention. They have a unique curly coat and large, expressive eyes.
Do Devon Rex cats get along with other pets?
Devon Rex cats can generally get along well with other pets, especially if they are properly introduced and socialized from a young age. However, individual personalities may vary, and it’s important to monitor their interactions and provide a safe and comfortable environment for all pets involved.
How do I train a Devon Rex cat?
Training a Devon Rex cat requires patience and positive reinforcement. Use treats and rewards to encourage desired behaviors and never resort to punishment. Consistency and repetition are key to successful training.
Are Devon Rex cats high maintenance?
Devon Rex cats have unique grooming needs due to their curly coat. Regular brushing to prevent matting and occasional bathing is recommended. Additionally, providing mental and physical stimulation through play and interactive toys is essential to keep them entertained and prevent destructive behavior.
Article by Barbara Read

Barbara Read is the heart and soul behind CatBeep.com. From her early love for cats to her current trio of feline companions, Barbara's experiences shape her site's tales and tips. While not a vet, her work with shelters offers a unique perspective on cat care and adoption.