The Selkirk Rex, known for its distinctive curly coat, stands out in the feline world with its plush, wavy fur, and gentle, patient temperament. This breed combines unusual looks with a heartwarming personality, making it a beloved choice for many pet owners. Dive into the comprehensive care sheet and breed profile to discover everything about the Selkirk Rex and see if this unique cat could be your next companion.
Breed Overview
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Selkirk Rex |
| Scientific Name | Felis catus |
| Characteristic | Patient, sociable, playful, tolerant |
| Life Span | 12-15 years |
| Build | Medium to large, muscular |
| Average Weight | 6-16 lbs (2.7-7.3 kg) |
| Average Height | 9-11 inches (22.9-28 cm) at the shoulder |
| Coat Length | Both short and long-haired varieties |
| Coat Colors | All colors and patterns |
| Coat Pattern | Curly |
| Eye colors | Corresponds to coat color |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Country of Origin | United States |
Physical Description
The Selkirk Rex is unique among cat breeds due to its curly coat, which is the result of a spontaneous mutation. These cats are medium to large in size, with a muscular build that gives them a sturdy appearance. Males typically weigh between 11-16 pounds, whereas females are lighter, weighing between 6-12 pounds.
The breed has two coat lengths: short and long, both characterized by loose, unstructured curls that give the Selkirk Rex its sheep-like appearance. The curliness of the coat can vary between individuals and can be more pronounced in some than in others. Their coats come in all colors and patterns, making each Selkirk Rex truly unique.
Their heads are round with full cheeks and a distinctly curled moustache and whiskers, adding to their charismatic presence. The ears are medium-sized, set wide apart, matching the rounded contours of their head. The Selkirk Rex’s wide eyes, which can be any color, are particularly expressive and add to the cat’s overall gentle expression.
One interesting aspect of the Selkirk Rex is the slight variation in appearance between males and females, with males generally being larger and more robust. However, both sexes share the breed’s hallmark plush and curly coat.
Behavior and Temperament of the Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex personality is as delightful as its appearance. This breed is known for its patience, making it an excellent companion for families with children or other pets. These cats are sociable creatures that cherish the company of their humans, often following them around the house, participating in activities, or simply sitting close by.
Despite their laid-back nature, Selkirk Rex cats are playful and will enjoy interactive toys and games well into their adult years. They possess a gentle demeanor, preferring to be part of the action rather than the center of attention.
The Selkirk Rex is also celebrated for its tolerance, easily adapting to new situations and people, which makes it an ideal pet for lively households or for owners who enjoy entertaining guests.
History and Origin
The Selkirk Rex breed began with a single kitten named Miss DePesto, born in a Montana shelter in 1987. This kitten, discovered by Persian breeder Jeri Newman, was unique due to her curly coat—a result of a spontaneous genetic mutation. Newman adopted Miss DePesto and mated her with a black Persian, starting the breed known today as the Selkirk Rex, the only Rex breed to be named after a person, Newman’s stepfather.
Unlike other Rex breeds, the Selkirk’s curly coat is not the result of targeted breeding for that trait but is a natural mutation that occurred independently. This genetic origin gives the Selkirk Rex its robust health and diverse gene pool.
Selkirk Rex Cat Care
Grooming a Selkirk Rex requires a careful approach to preserve their curls. Brushing should be minimal to avoid frizzing the coat; instead, gently untangling the curls with fingers is advisable. Bathing should also be done sparingly, as their fur absorbs a lot of water, making it difficult to dry.
Selkirk Rex cats are well-suited to indoor life, thriving in a safe environment where their playful disposition can be indulged with a variety of toys and climbing structures. Despite their social nature, they also appreciate quiet spots where they can retreat for some alone time.
Common Health Problems
Selkirk Rex cats are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health issues, including:
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Analogous to “Renal amyloidosis”, a hereditary condition leading to kidney failure.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): Similar to “Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy”, a common heart disease seen in certain breeds. Regular veterinary monitoring and care are fundamental to moderating this condition.
- Hip Dysplasia: Comparable to the need for regular dental care in managing “Periodontal disease”. In the same way, routine veterinary exams and preventive measures could mitigate the risk of this skeletal condition.
Routine veterinary care and screenings can help catch and manage these conditions early.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Selkirk Rex
Selkirk Rex kittens can be adopted from shelters or purchased from reputable breeders who conduct genetic testing and provide a healthy upbringing for their cats. Prices for Selkirk Rex kittens commonly range from $600 to $1500, varying greatly depending on pedigree, appearance, and location.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced diet is integral to the Selkirk Rex’s health, combining high-quality dry and wet cat food rich in proteins and essential nutrients. Portion control and regular feeding schedules are crucial to prevent obesity. Supplements should only be added under veterinary advice, and fresh water should always be available.
Comparable Breeds
If you find the Selkirk Rex intriguing, similar breeds worth exploring include:
- Devon Rex: Noted for their wavy coats and playful antics, reminiscent of the energetic and wild-looking Abyssinian.
- Cornish Rex: Features a distinctive curly coat and agile figure, echoing the slender build and spirited nature of the Siamese.
- LaPerm: Boasts a unique curly coat, exuding a diversity in texture comparable to the Oriental Shorthair’s wide coat color variation.
- Persian: Known for their long, luxurious fur and gentle temperament, akin to the opulent, long-haired appearance of the Somali.
For more cat breed profiles, feel free to explore our extensive collection.
FAQ’s about Selkirk Rex
Are Selkirk Rex rare?
Selkirk Rex cats are relatively rare compared to more common breeds, mainly due to their unique genetic mutation. These distinctively curly-coated cats are a charming and relatively recent addition to the feline world.
Why not to get a Selkirk Rex?
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance cat, the Selkirk’s grooming needs and potential health issues might be a deterrent. Otherwise, they make excellent companions.
Do Selkirk Rex cats shed a lot?
Like all cats, Selkirk Rex shed, but their unique coat may retain shed hairs, reducing visible shedding around the house. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles from forming.
Is a Selkirk Rex an indoor cat?
Yes, the Selkirk Rex thrives indoors where it can be safe and receive plenty of attention and stimulation. They are well-suited to an indoor lifestyle, making them perfect companions for apartment dwellers.
Do Selkirk Rex cats need baths?
Occasional baths are necessary for the Selkirk Rex but should be kept to a minimum to avoid drying out their skin and frizzing their curls.
Do Selkirk Rex like water?
Like most cats, individual Selkirk Rex’s tolerance to water can vary. Generally, they may not be fond of it, although there are always exceptions.