Cat Breed Comparison
Devon Rex vs LaPerm: Key Differences
Devon Rex and LaPerm are often confused. Compare their size, weight, lifespan, origin, temperament, and health — and learn how to tell them apart at a glance.
Quick Comparison
Visual Differences
Telling a Devon Rex from a LaPerm
Devon Rex has a much shorter, finer coat of tight marcel waves, a heart-shaped pixie face with oversized bat-like ears set low on the head, and a slender arched body. LaPerms have full-length loose curls, a modified wedge head, and a moderate athletic build.
Devon Rex Key Markers
- Large, bat-like ears set wide and low on the head — broad at the base with rounded tips and minimal inner fuzz; the most distinguishing feature of the breed, giving the face its characteristic pixie expression
- Short, soft, wavy coat with a distinct marcel wave pattern — the waves are most prominent on the back and sides; the coat is fine and delicate, with some Devon Rex cats having bald patches, especially on the top of the head and neck
- Short wedge-shaped head with prominent cheekbones, a short muzzle, and a defined whisker break — the CFA standard calls it a pixie face with a gentle curve from forehead to nose; the whiskers are crinkly and short
LaPerm Key Markers
- Soft, wavy, loose curls covering the body — the coat is the breed's defining feature: full, springy curls with a loose, open wave pattern; the curls are tightest around the neck (ruff), belly, and base of the tail; whiskers are long and curly with a distinctive crimp
- Modified wedge-shaped head with a gently rounded skull, a short muzzle, and prominent whisker pads — the CFA calls it "a modified wedge with soft curves"; the muzzle is short and well-developed with a visible whisker break and a gentle curve from forehead to nose
- Medium-large, almond-shaped eyes in gold, green, copper, or blue — wide-set and expressive with a sweet, gentle expression; the eye color complements the coat color in warmth and tone
Temperament & Personality
Devon Rex
- Extremely people-oriented — wants to be involved in everything you do, follows from room to room, and sits on your shoulder or keyboard given the chance
- Mischievous and playful — opens cabinets, steals small objects, and invents games; stays kittenish well into senior years
- Excellent jumper — routinely reaches the highest perches in the house and watches household activity from above
- Social with strangers, children, and other pets — rarely shy or territorial, greets visitors at the door like a dog
- Moderate vocalization — chirps and trills rather than yowling, but will voice displeasure at closed doors
- Heat-seeking — the short, fine coat offers little insulation, so Devon Rex cats gravitate toward warm spots, sweaters, and under the covers
LaPerm
- Gentle and affectionate — bonds closely with family members and enjoys being held, pet, and part of daily activities
- People-oriented without being demanding — follows owners around but settles quietly when you're busy
- Playful with moderate energy — enjoys interactive toys, climbing, and puzzle feeders without being hyperactive
- Good with children, dogs, and other cats — the calm temperament makes it adaptable to multi-pet households
- Intelligent and trainable — responds to name, learns tricks, and enjoys training sessions
- Quiet voice — communicates with soft trills and meows rather than loud persistent vocalization
Health Notes
Devon Rex
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — genetic heart disease affecting Devon Rex; echocardiogram screening recommended for breeding cats
- Congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) — a neuromuscular disorder causing generalized muscle weakness, head-bobbing, and easy fatigue in kittens; DNA test available through UC Davis VGL
- Patellar luxation — kneecap dislocation more common in Devon Rex than many breeds, likely due to fine-boned hind legs
- Skin sensitivity and dermatitis — the delicate single coat offers minimal skin protection; avoid harsh grooming brushes and over-bathing
- Dental disease — the narrow muzzle shape contributes to tooth crowding and gingivitis risk; regular dental care particularly important
LaPerm
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — reported in the breed; regular echocardiogram screening recommended for breeding cats; early detection through annual cardiac screening improves management outcomes
- Patellar luxation — kneecap dislocation seen in some LaPerm lines; ranges from occasional skipping to lameness requiring surgical correction
- Dental disease — the modified wedge muzzle contributes to some tooth crowding; regular dental care and annual oral exams recommended
- Skin oil management — the reduced guard hair coverage can lead to oilier skin and occasional breakouts; gentle bathing when needed helps manage buildup without stripping natural oils
- Obesity — moderate activity level means weight can accumulate without portion-controlled feeding; regular exercise and measured portions are important
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a veterinarian for health advice specific to your cat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell a Devon Rex apart from a LaPerm?
Devon Rex has a much shorter, finer coat of tight marcel waves, a heart-shaped pixie face with oversized bat-like ears set low on the head, and a slender arched body. LaPerms have full-length loose curls, a modified wedge head, and a moderate athletic build.
Are Devon Rex cats hypoallergenic?
Not fully, though they are often better tolerated — the short coat sheds little and produces less dander than many breeds, but they still produce the Fel d 1 allergen protein. Individual allergy responses vary widely, so spend time with the breed before adopting.
Are LaPerm cats hypoallergenic?
No — no cat is truly hypoallergenic. Some allergy sufferers report milder reactions to LaPerms because the curly coat sheds less, but they still produce the Fel d 1 allergen.
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Breed Profiles & More Comparisons
Devon Rex
A pixie-faced cat with oversized bat ears and a short wavy coat that feels like soft lamb’s wool. Mischievous, people-oriented, and endlessly energetic — the breed was discovered in Devon, England in 1960 when a stray cat gave birth to a curly-coated kitten.
LaPerm
A cat with a soft, wavy coat that feels like fine human hair — the LaPerm carries a dominant rex gene that produces loose curls, especially around the neck, belly, and tail. The breed started with a spontaneous mutation on a farm in Oregon in 1982. LaPerms are gentle cats that bond closely with their families.