Abyssinian vs Devon Rex
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Category IV — Siamese and Oriental
Abyssinian
The Abyssinian is named after Abyssinia, present-day Ethiopia, although the breed's origin is disputed and not known for certain. The short, close-lying coat has a distinctive ticked pattern, with each hair banded in different shades, which makes the colour look as if it glows warmly. The body is supple, muscular and long-legged, and adults typically weigh around 3 to 5 kilograms. Little grooming is needed. Abyssinians are known for being very active, curious and intelligent, and they enjoy climbing, play and exploring, so they need things to do. It bonds quickly with its family and dislikes being left alone for long. Life expectancy is typically around 12 to 15 years.
Category IV — Siamese and Oriental
Devon Rex
The Devon Rex arose in Devon, England, around 1960 and has a wavy coat, but the cause is a different gene from the Cornish Rex's, which is why the two are separate breeds. The coat is short, soft and sparse, and the head, with wide-set large ears and big eyes, has an elfin look. Adults typically weigh around 2.5 to 4.5 kilograms. The coat is not thick, so the cat can feel the cold and seek warmth. Grooming is simple, and stroking suits it better than brushing. Devon Rex cats are usually sociable, playful and like to be close to their owner. Life expectancy is typically around 12 to 16 years.
At a glance
| Abyssinian | Devon Rex | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (male) | 3.5–5.0 kg | 3.0–4.5 kg |
| Weight (female) | 3.0–4.0 kg | 2.5–3.5 kg |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 yrs | 12–16 yrs |
| Coat | smooth, short | wavy, short |
Temperament & Family Life
| Abyssinian | Devon Rex | |
|---|---|---|
| Family friendly | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Trainability |
Activity & Living Space
| Abyssinian | Devon Rex | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | ||
| Playfulness | ||
| Hunting instinct | ||
| Apartment friendly |
Personality & Communication
| Abyssinian | Devon Rex | |
|---|---|---|
| Affection | ||
| Independence | ||
| Vocality |
Grooming & Shedding
| Abyssinian | Devon Rex | |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding | ||
| Grooming need |
Trait scores (1–5) are editorial estimates, not measurements — every cat is an individual.