What's In A Name: Devon Rex

The Devon Rex was discovered, as you may have guessed, in Devon, UK in 1960 among a litter of kittens near a disused tin mine. The breed was initially thought to be linked with the Cornish Rex; however, test mating proved otherwise. Cats have three types of hair: guard hair, awn hair, and down hair. The Devon Rex's coat is unusual because there is little guard hair.  This also results in the Devon Rex shedding less, which in turn has earned it a reputation for being hypoallergenic (although not completely).

Now for the second half of the name: As some of you may or may not know, any breed name that contains the word "Rex" refers to a genetic mutation in various animal species that results in soft, curly fur. The Rexed coats are unusual but occur (and have been preserved) in cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs.