Sphynx vs Devon Rex: cost, health and care compared
The Sphynx and the Devon Rex side by side: size, care needs, health issues and what each costs to keep.
Last updated: October 2026 · 8 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Sphynx | Devon Rex | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6–14 lb [2] | 6–9 lb on average [3] |
| Life expectancy | [2] | About 9–15+ years on average [3] |
| Coat | Hairless (some fuzz) [4] | Shorthair (curly, wavy) [5] |
| Personality | Active, affectionate [4] | Pixie-like, playful [5] |
| CFA popularity, 2025 | No. 9 [6] | No. 5 [6] |
| Health issues to know | Ear infections, Allergies and itchy skin, Dental disease, Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy See health costs | Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Polycystic kidney disease, Hip dysplasia, Luxating patella See health costs |
| Routine vet visit | $190–$525 (any cat) [7] | $190–$525 (any cat) [7] |
| Yearly cost estimate | $800–$1,300 [1] | $800–$1,300 [1] |
| Rough lifetime cost | — | $7,200–$19,900 |
About the cost numbers
The yearly estimate starts with the ASPCA's yearly cost of care and, at the high end, adds one typical vet bill. [1] The lifetime figure is that yearly range times the life expectancy. It is simple math on sourced numbers, before inflation and before any major illness, not a quote.
For each breed's health risks and what they cost to treat, see Sphynx health problems and costs and Devon Rex health problems and costs.
Insurance and savings
Breed matters less than timing for insurance. The average accident and illness policy cost $435 a year for a cat in 2025. [8] Conditions found before you enroll are usually excluded, so many owners sign up while their pet is young. Some prefer a savings fund instead; see insurance vs savings.
Common questions
Which costs more, the Sphynx or the Devon Rex?
Our yearly cost estimate is the same for both: $800–$1,300.
Which lives longer, the Sphynx or the Devon Rex?
PetMD gives the Sphynx a life expectancy of not listed and the Devon Rex about 9–15+ years on average. Individual pets vary a lot.
What health problems do the Sphynx and Devon Rex have?
Sphynx: Ear infections, Allergies and itchy skin, Dental disease and Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Devon Rex: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Polycystic kidney disease, Hip dysplasia and Luxating patella.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.
Sources (8) — tap to show
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- PetMD – Sphynx cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- PetMD – Devon Rex cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- CFA – Sphynx breed profile
- CFA – Devon Rex breed profile
- CFA – Most Popular Breeds for 2025
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)