Devon Rex vs Siamese
Side-by-side comparison for prospective owners weighing both breeds.
| Trait | Devon Rex | Siamese |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6–9 lbs | 6–14 lbs |
| Lifespan | 9–15 yrs | 12–20 yrs |
| Est. monthly cost | $50–$110 | $50–$100 |
| Energy level | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Vocalization |
Where Devon Rex and Siamese differ most
- Lifespan: Devon Rex 9–15 yrs · Siamese 12–20 yrsSiamese much longer-lived
- Adult weight: Devon Rex 6–9 lbs · Siamese 6–14 lbsSiamese heavier
- Energy level: Devon Rex 4/5 · Siamese 5/5Siamese higher-energy
- Grooming needs: Devon Rex 2/5 · Siamese 1/5Devon Rex more upkeep
- Good with other pets: Devon Rex 4/5 · Siamese 3/5Devon Rex rated higher
- Vocalization: Devon Rex 3/5 · Siamese 5/5Siamese more vocal
Full trait-by-trait breakdown
| Trait | Devon Rex | Siamese | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult weight | 6–9 lbs | 6–14 lbs | Siamese heavier |
| Energy level | 4/5 | 5/5 | Siamese higher-energy |
| Daily exercise | ~30 min | ~30 min | About the same |
| Grooming needs | 2/5 | 1/5 | Devon Rex more upkeep |
| Shedding | 1/5 | 1/5 | About the same |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 4/5 | About the same |
| Good with kids | 4/5 | 4/5 | About the same |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 3/5 | Devon Rex rated higher |
| Vocalization | 3/5 | 5/5 | Siamese more vocal |
| Lifespan | 9–15 yrs | 12–20 yrs | Siamese much longer-lived |
| Est. monthly cost | $50–110 | $50–100 | About the same |
| Hypoallergenic reality | Lower-shedding (not hypoallergenic) | No | Differs — see profiles |
Which one should you choose?
Both breeds are highly social, vocal, and people-focused, so this comparison is less about temperament category and more about degree and coat. Few cats narrate their day as constantly as a Siamese does, while the Devon Rex talks less but makes up for it with near-constant physical interaction and curiosity.
Coat is the clearer divider: the Devon Rex's sparse, wavy fur sheds very little but needs attention to warmth and occasional skin care, while the Siamese's short, fine coat is close to wash-and-go and sheds minimally without any special skin considerations. Build differs too — the Siamese carries a slender, long-lined frame, while the Devon Rex stays compact, with an elfin face and oversized ears.
A household that wants a highly vocal, opinionated companion and doesn't mind frequent conversation should lean Siamese. A household that wants an equally attention-hungry cat but with less noise, and is willing to keep the house warm and manage the coat's specific needs, should lean Devon Rex.
Whichever breed fits your life, consider adoption or breed-specific rescue first — many purebred and mixed-breed dogs and cats are already waiting for homes.
General breed information, not veterinary advice — consult a vet for your pet's specific health, diet, and behavior needs.