If you’ve ever seen a cat with extremely curly fur and a teddy bear-like appearance, you’ve probably heard of the Selkirk Rex breed. Known as the “cat in sheep’s clothing,” this breed is characterized by its soft, curly coat and charmingly calm personality.
The thick, soft coat of the Selkirk Rex distinguishes it from other Rex breeds, making it one of the most unique and affectionate cats you will ever see. This thorough guide will cover every aspect of the Selkirk Rex, including its temperament, history, appearance, upkeep needs, and health requirements.
Origin and History of the Selkirk Rex
The story of the Selkirk Rex began in Montana, USA, in 1987. A shelter cat gave birth to a litter of kittens, and one of them stood out with a curly coat. This unique kitten was adopted by Jeri Newman, a Persian breeder, who gave her the nickname “Miss DePesto,” after a character from the television program Moonlighting.
Six kittens—three with straight fur and three with curly fur—were produced when Miss DePesto mated with a Persian male.
A new breed known as the Selkirk Rex was created as a result of this natural mutation. The Selkirk Rex has a full coat with normal-length guard hairs that are just curly, unlike other Rex cats like the Devon or Cornish Rex. Major cat associations now recognize the breed, which is loved by cat lovers all over the world for its soft curls and loving disposition.
Physical Appearance
A sight to behold is the Selkirk Rex cat. Depending on the cat and the length of its coat, its curls can vary from loose waves to tight ringlets. Although there are long-haired and short-haired varieties of the breed, they both have the same thick, opulent coat.
They have a well-balanced, muscular, medium- to large-sized body. They have a round head, full cheeks, big, expressive eyes, and a charming face that makes them “smile” all the time. Their whimsical charm is enhanced by the fact that their whiskers are frequently curly as well.
Selkirk Rex comes in a wide array of colors and patterns, including solid, bicolor, tabby, and even pointed varieties. Their coat texture is soft, plush, and woolly—often compared to a teddy bear’s or a lamb’s fleece.
Personality and Temperament
The Selkirk Rex cat breed has a personality that is just as charming as its appearance. These felines are amiable, kind, and focused on people. They develop close relationships with their families and thrive in the company. The Selkirk Rex loves being around people, following them around the house, and cuddling up on their laps whenever they can, in contrast to other cats that would rather be left alone.
Combining the best qualities of their ancestors—the playful charm of the Exotic Shorthair, the loving disposition of the Persian, and the laid-back nature of the British Shorthair—they have a calm and balanced temperament. They are therefore perfect for homes with kids, other cats, or even dogs that get along with cats.
Although playful, they are not overly energetic or demanding. They love interactive play sessions but are equally content lounging beside their favorite humans. Their even-tempered personality makes them one of the most adaptable cat breeds around.
Grooming and Care
Despite their curly coats, the Selkirk Rex cat breed does not require overly complicated grooming. However, their unique fur texture can be prone to tangling or matting if neglected. Regular brushing—two to three times a week—helps maintain the coat’s softness and prevents knots. A stainless steel comb or a wide-tooth brush works best for removing loose hair without damaging the curls.
It’s important not to over-bathe them, as frequent washing can strip their coat of natural oils and reduce curl definition. When you do bathe them, use a gentle, cat-safe shampoo and let their curls air dry naturally to retain that signature fluffiness.
Their grooming routine should also include regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care. Keeping up with these habits ensures they stay healthy and comfortable throughout their lives.
Health and Lifespan
The Selkirk Rex cat breed is usually healthy, but like all purebreds, they may have some genetic problems. Breeders usually look for common problems like polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which are both found in Persian and British Shorthair lines.
To stay healthy, they need to see the vet regularly, eat a balanced diet, and get the right care. A Selkirk Rex can live for 12 to 15 years with good care, and sometimes even longer.
Because they have thick fur, it’s important to keep an eye on them in warm weather so they don’t get too hot. They should always be able to get to cool places and drink fresh water, especially in the summer.
Diet and Nutrition
A healthy diet is very important for keeping your Selkirk Rex in good shape. Pick cat food that is high in protein, essential fatty acids, and vitamins. Because they are strong, it is important to keep an eye on their portions and avoid obesity, which can lead to other health issues.
Staying hydrated is just as important. Wet food or a mix of wet and dry food can help keep your cat’s kidneys and urinary tract healthy by making sure they get enough water. Talk to your vet about the best feeding schedule for your cat based on its age, weight, and level of activity.
Living with a Selkirk Rex
It is a lot of fun to live with a Selkirk Rex. They fit in well with families, singles, and seniors, and they bring warmth and love to any home. They are great friends for kids and other pets because they are calm and patient.
These cats like toys that they can play with, puzzle feeders, and soft places to sit where they can see what’s going on around them. They like attention, but they aren’t clingy. They are the ideal mix of affection and independence.
They are well-suited for indoor living because they are quiet and gentle, and their coat and temperament can thrive without being exposed to harsh weather.
Why Choose a Selkirk Rex Cat?
If you want a cat that is cuddly, loving, and looks different from all the others, the Selkirk Rex is the breed for you. They are unique in the cat world because they have curly fur, a sweet personality, and don’t need a lot of care.
The Selkirk Rex is easy to care for, so whether you’re a first-time cat owner or a long-time cat lover, you’ll get lots of love, loyalty, and cute moments from it.
Conclusion
In summary, the Selkirk Rex cat breed is a curly-coated wonder with a heart as soft as its fur. From its origins in Montana to its global recognition, this breed has captured the hearts of cat lovers everywhere. With proper grooming, nutrition, and care, a Selkirk Rex can be your loyal, loving companion for many years.
Their unique curls may draw you in, but it’s their affectionate personality and gentle charm that will make you fall in love forever.
FAQs
1. Are Selkirk Rex cats hypoallergenic?
No, Selkirk Rex cats are not considered hypoallergenic. While their curly coat may trap some dander, they still produce allergens that can affect individuals with sensitive allergies.
2. How often should I groom my Selkirk Rex?
To avoid matting and tangles, you should brush your Selkirk Rex two or three times per week. In addition to keeping their curls soft and glossy, regular grooming aids in the distribution of natural oils.
3. How much do Selkirk Rex cats shed?
They do shed, but not a lot. Maintaining a clean home and reducing shedding are two benefits of routine grooming.
4. Do Selkirk Rex cats get along well with other animals?
Of course. They are a wonderful addition to homes with multiple pets because of their calm and amiable disposition, which enables them to get along with dogs, cats, and even kids.
5. What is the price of a Selkirk Rex cat?
A pedigreed kitten’s price can vary based on coat type, breeder reputation, and lineage, but it usually falls between $800 and $2,500.