Do Devon Rex Cats Need Baths?
Devon Rex cats are like little elves with curly coats and giant ears. They’re charming, mischievous, and full of personality. But one big question comes up for owners—do they need baths?
The answer: sometimes! Unlike most cats, Devons have very little fur to absorb the natural oils their skin produces. Some stay clean on their own, while others turn into greasy little gremlins.
Why Some Devon Rex Cats Need Baths
Not all Devon Rex cats need regular bathing, but some do. Here’s why:
- Thin Fur Means More Oil – Most cats have enough fur to soak up their skin’s natural oils. Devon Rexes don’t. That means some develop an oily or sticky coat, especially lighter-colored ones.
- Dirt Buildup – Their fine, wavy fur can collect dirt and dust easily. If they love rolling around, they might start looking a little grimy.
- Odor Issues – If your Devon starts to smell a bit off, their coat might be holding onto oil or sweat. A quick bath can freshen them up.
I once had a friend with a Devon named Pickles. That cat looked like he had been dipped in butter if he went too long without a bath. Meanwhile, my own Devon, Beans, stays fresh with just a wipe-down. It all depends on the cat.
By the way, if you're into Devon Rex stuff, you’ll wanna check this one out: How Many Devon Rex Cats Are in the U.S.?
How Often Should You Bathe a Devon Rex?
- If they get greasy: Every 2-4 weeks
- If they stay mostly clean: Once every few months (or not at all!)
- If they hate baths: Use alternative cleaning methods instead
Over-bathing can strip their skin of natural oils, which can cause irritation. So, only bathe them when necessary.
Oh, and speaking of Devon Rex, here’s another one you might like: How Big Do Devon Rex Cats Get?
How to Bathe a Devon Rex (Without a Fight)
Most cats hate water, and Devon Rexes are no exception. But if you need to bathe yours, here’s how to make it as painless as possible:
- Use a Mild Shampoo – Baby shampoo or cat-specific shampoo is best. Avoid anything harsh.
- Lukewarm Water – Too hot or too cold, and you’ll have a squirming, yowling mess.
- Be Gentle and Quick – Wet them down, lather gently, and rinse thoroughly.
- Avoid the Face – Use a damp cloth to clean their face instead of pouring water over their head.
- Dry Thoroughly – Towel-dry them well, and keep them warm after. Their thin coat doesn’t provide much insulation.
If your Devon really hates baths, don’t force it. There are other ways to keep them clean.
Also, just throwing this in—this Devon Rex post is a fun read too: How Long Do Devon Rex Cats Live?
Alternative Cleaning Methods
If your cat isn’t a fan of water, try these instead:
- Pet-Friendly Wipes – A great way to remove dirt and excess oil without a full bath.
- Damp Cloth – Wiping them down with a wet cloth helps distribute oils evenly.
- Regular Ear Cleaning – Devon Rex cats tend to get waxy ears. A gentle wipe with a cat-safe cleaner helps prevent buildup.
Grooming Tips Beyond Bathing
Devons have low-maintenance coats, but they still need some basic care:
- Ear Cleaning – Their large ears collect wax quickly. Check and clean them weekly.
- Minimal Brushing – Their coat doesn’t shed much, but gentle brushing helps remove loose hairs.
- Nail Trimming – Unless you enjoy surprise scratches, keep their claws trimmed.
Final Thoughts
Not all Devon Rex cats need baths, but some do. If your cat stays clean and fresh, leave them be. If they get oily, dirty, or smelly, a gentle bath or wipe-down will help.
Either way, Devons are quirky little creatures who bring plenty of fun—whether they’re clean or a little bit greasy.
