Selkirk Rex

The history of the Selkirk Rex breed began quite unexpectedly and not that long ago. In 1987, in a regular animal shelter in Montana, USA, an unusual kitten with a curly coat and twisted whiskers was born in a litter of a stray cat. A shelter worker, Peggy Voorhees, noticed this unique kitten and gave her to a local Persian cat breeder, Jeri Newman.

Jeri named the curly kitten Miss DePesto of Noface, after a character from the TV series “Moonlighting.” When Miss DePesto grew up, Jeri bred her with a black Persian cat. The litter produced six kittens, three of which inherited their mother’s curly coat. This proved that the gene responsible for the curls in this cat is dominant, unlike the recessive genes that cause curly coats in other Rex breeds, such as the Devon Rex or Cornish Rex. This means that only one parent needs to have the gene for a curly kitten to be born.

Jeri Newman named the new breed the “Selkirk Rex” in honor of her stepfather, Selkirk, making this the only cat breed named after a real person. The second part of the name, “Rex,” indicates the presence of a curly coat.

To expand the gene pool and establish the breed standard, Selkirk Rexes were crossed with other breeds, including:

• Persian cats (for bulk and head shape)
• Exotic Shorthair cats
• British Shorthair and Longhair cats (for a sturdy frame and plush coat)
• American Shorthair cats

Thanks to this selective breeding, a stable type of cat with a curly coat, a sturdy build, and a balanced character was created. The breed was officially recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1992 and by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 2000. Today, Selkirk Rexes are still considered a relatively rare breed, but their popularity is growing thanks to their unique appearance and wonderful temperament.

The Selkirk Rex is a medium to large cat with a massive, sturdy build and heavy bone structure, giving an impression of strength and power. They have a characteristic “plush” appearance, which is emphasized by their unique curly coat.

Head: Large, rounded, with a broad skull and full cheeks. The muzzle is medium in width, fairly short, with prominent whisker pads. The chin is strong and well-developed. A characteristic feature is their curly whiskers, which can be fragile.

Eyes: Large, round, and set wide apart. Eye color can be any shade and usually harmonizes with the coat color. The gaze is open and friendly.

Ears: Medium-sized, broad at the base, with slightly rounded tips. They are set wide on the head, continuing the rounded contour.

Body: Rectangular, muscular, with a broad chest and a level back. The build is described as semi-cobby, meaning strong but not overly short.

Legs: Medium length, with sturdy bones and round paws. They appear proportionate to the body.

Tail: Medium length, thick at the base, tapering slightly to a rounded tip. It is covered in curly fur.

Coat: This is the main distinguishing feature of the breed. The coat is soft, plush, thick, and noticeably curly all over the body, forming loose, unstructured curls. Unlike other Rex breeds, the Selkirk Rex has all three hair types—guard, awn, and down—curly. This gives the coat its unique density and volume. There are two variations:

• Shorthair (Selkirk Rex Shorthair): The coat is dense, plush, with distinct waves and curls.
• Longhair (Selkirk Rex Longhair): The coat is longer, and the curls are more pronounced, forming cascading ringlets, especially on the neck (ruff) and tail.

It’s important to note that the degree of curliness can change depending on age, sex, hormonal status, and even the climate. Kittens are born curly, but their fur may temporarily straighten at around 6 months of age before re-curling, reaching its final appearance by the time they are two years old.

Color: The Selkirk Rex breed standard allows for all possible colors and patterns, including colorpoint, bicolor, tabby, solid, and more. This makes each cat unique not only in coat texture but also in color.

The Selkirk Rex is known for its incredibly pleasant, balanced, and affectionate personality. They are true “teddy bears” not only in appearance but also in their disposition. They inherited the best traits from the breeds used in their creation: the calmness of Persians, the playfulness of Exotics, and the sociability of British Shorthairs.

Key personality traits of the Selkirk Rex:

• Affectionate and People-Oriented: These cats love to be close to their owners. They will gladly sit on your lap, sleep nearby, and follow you around the house. They need attention and companionship.
• Patient and Tolerant: Selkirk Rexes are generally very patient, which makes them wonderful companions for families with children. They handle hugs and games well, as long as the children are gentle with them.
• Calm but Playful: They are not hyperactive cats but love to play, especially when they are young. Teaser wands, balls, and interactive toys will help keep them active. However, most of the time, they prefer peaceful rest next to their favorite people.
• Sociable: Selkirk Rexes generally get along well with other cats and dogs, especially if they are raised together. They are not prone to conflict and can become part of a large multi-pet household.
• Smart and Curious: These cats are quite intelligent and can learn simple tricks or rules of behavior. Their curiosity may sometimes lead them to explore new places in the house.
• Not Overly Vocal: They have a quiet, pleasant voice and don’t usually annoy with loud meowing without reason.

Overall, the Selkirk Rex is an ideal family pet for those looking for a calm, gentle, and devoted friend. They don’t like to be left alone for long periods, so they are a better fit for families where someone is often at home.

The Selkirk Rex is considered a relatively healthy breed, thanks in part to the diverse gene pool obtained from crossing with several other breeds. However, like any breed, they are prone to certain genetic diseases inherited from their ancestors.

Potential health issues:

• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): This is an inherited condition that can be passed down from Persian and Exotic cats. It is characterized by the formation of cysts in the kidneys, which eventually leads to kidney failure. Responsible breeders test their breeding animals for PKD using ultrasound or a genetic test to prevent the disease from being passed on to kittens.
• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is the most common heart disease in cats, which can also occur in ancestral breeds (Persians, British Shorthairs). HCM causes the thickening of the heart muscle walls, making it difficult for the heart to function. It is diagnosed using a cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram). Regular veterinary check-ups and screening of breeding animals help detect and manage this condition.
• Hip Dysplasia: While more common in large cat breeds, it can sometimes be diagnosed in Selkirk Rexes due to their sturdy build.
• Excessive Earwax Production: As with some other curly-coated breeds (including hair within the ear canals), Selkirk Rexes may experience increased earwax buildup. This requires regular ear inspection and cleaning to prevent infections.
• Obesity: Selkirk Rexes have a good appetite and a tendency to gain excess weight, especially if they have a sedentary lifestyle. Portion control and a balanced diet are key to maintaining a healthy weight and preventing related problems (diabetes, joint issues).

Prevention:

• Choose a Responsible Breeder: Make sure the breeder performs genetic tests and screenings for PKD and HCM on their cats.
• Regular Vet Check-ups: Annual (or semi-annual for older cats) check-ups help detect problems at an early stage.
• Vaccination and Deworming: Follow the recommended schedule for vaccinations and parasite treatments.
• Healthy Diet and Weight Control: Provide a high-quality food and monitor your pet’s weight.
• Dental Care: Regular teeth brushing or using special dental treats will help prevent oral diseases.

With proper care and attention to their health, Selkirk Rexes can live a long and happy life, bringing joy to their owners for 12-15 years and even longer.

Caring for the unique curly coat of a Selkirk Rex has its own peculiarities, but it’s not overly complicated. The main rule is to avoid over-brushing to preserve the natural curls.

Coat care:

• Brushing: Unlike many long-haired breeds, Selkirk Rexes do not need to be brushed daily. Frequent brushing can straighten the curls and make the coat fluffy instead of curly. It is recommended to use a wide-toothed comb and brush the coat 1-2 times a week (for longhairs) or even less frequently (for shorthairs) to remove dead hairs and prevent mats, especially during shedding season. Do this very gently.
• Shedding: Selkirk Rexes shed, like most cats. During the shedding period (usually spring and fall), they may require slightly more frequent brushing to help remove old hair.
• Bathing: Bathe a Selkirk Rex only when necessary, when the coat becomes dirty or greasy. Use a high-quality moisturizing cat shampoo. After bathing, do not rub the coat with a towel—this will fluff out the curls. Gently blot the coat with a soft towel. For drying, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting with a diffuser or simply allow the coat to air dry naturally in a warm room. Lightly “scrunching” the damp coat with your hands will help restore the curls’ shape.
• Kitten Coat Development: Remember that a kitten’s coat goes through several stages of development. Don’t worry if the curls temporarily disappear—they will return.

Other grooming aspects:

• Ear Care: Regularly (once every week or two) check the ears for dirt, excess wax, or signs of infection (redness, unpleasant odor). Due to their tendency for increased earwax production, cleaning with a special ear lotion and cotton pads may be necessary. Never use cotton swabs for cleaning deep within the ear canal.
• Eye Care: Small discharge may accumulate in the corners of their eyes. It can be gently removed with a soft, damp cloth or wipe. If the discharge is abundant, yellow, or green, consult a veterinarian.
• Nail Trimming: Trim their nails every 2-3 weeks using special cat clippers to prevent them from growing into the paw pads and scratching furniture.
• Dental Care: Regular teeth brushing with a special cat toothpaste and brush will help prevent plaque, tartar, and gum disease.

While the Selkirk Rex coat requires a specific approach, overall care for this breed is no more difficult than for many other cats. The most important things are consistency and attention to the needs of your curly companion.

Selkirk Rexes are smart and clever cats who generally respond well to training and basic commands. Their calm and people-oriented nature makes the learning process enjoyable for both the cat and the owner.

Key aspects of training:

• Positive Reinforcement: The best training method for Selkirk Rexes is positive reinforcement. Use treats (small pieces!), praise, and affection to encourage desired behavior. Punishing a cat is usually ineffective and can cause fear or distrust.
• Litter Box Training: Selkirk Rexes are typically easy to litter train, especially if the kitten comes from a responsible breeder where it has already learned from its mother. It is important to keep the litter box clean.
• Scratching Post Training: To protect your furniture, it’s important to introduce the kitten to a scratching post early. Place it in an accessible location and encourage the cat to use it. You can try different types of scratching posts (vertical, horizontal, cardboard) to find one your pet likes.
• Basic Commands: While cats aren’t dogs, Selkirk Rexes can learn to respond to their name and simple commands like “come,” especially if the training is done in a playful manner with a reward.
• Intellectual Stimulation: Due to their intelligence, Selkirk Rexes need mental stimulation. Interactive toys, cat puzzles, and games with their owner will help satisfy their curiosity and prevent boredom.

Socialization:

Although Selkirk Rexes are naturally very sociable and friendly, early socialization is still important. Introduce the kitten to different people, sounds, and situations in a positive and controlled manner. This will help them grow into a confident and well-adapted cat.

If you have other pets, introduce them to the Selkirk Rex gradually and under supervision. Thanks to their patient nature, they usually get along well with other cats and friendly dogs.

Proper nutrition is essential for the health and longevity of your Selkirk Rex. Since this breed has a tendency to gain excess weight due to a good appetite and love for a calm lifestyle, diet control is especially important.

Main feeding principles:

• High-Quality Food: Choose a high-quality commercial food (dry and/or wet) that is appropriate for your cat’s age (kitten, adult, senior), activity level, and health status. Look for foods with a high animal protein content (meat or fish as the first ingredient) and a moderate fat content.
• Portion Control: This is a key point for Selkirk Rexes. Do not leave food freely available all day (free feeding). Feed your cat 2-3 times a day with clearly measured portions, following the manufacturer’s recommendations or your veterinarian’s advice. If the cat doesn’t finish the portion within 20-30 minutes, remove the leftovers.
• Balance of Dry and Wet Food: A combination of dry and wet food can be beneficial. Dry food helps clean teeth, while wet food provides additional hydration, which is important for preventing urinary tract problems.
• Fresh Water: Provide constant access to clean, fresh water. Some cats prefer drinking fountains, which encourage them to drink more.
• Avoid Overfeeding Treats: Treats should make up no more than 10% of the daily diet. Use them for rewards during training or as a rare indulgence.
• Monitor Weight: Regularly weigh your cat and assess its body condition. You should be able to easily feel their ribs under a thin layer of fat, and their waist should be noticeable when viewed from above. If you notice signs of excess weight, consult a veterinarian about adjusting the diet or switching to a weight management food.
• No Table Scraps: Human food can be harmful to cats and contribute to weight gain.

A balanced diet and weight control will help your Selkirk Rex stay healthy, active, and avoid obesity-related issues.

1. Named After a Person: The Selkirk Rex is the only cat breed named after a real person (the stepfather of the breed’s founder, Jeri Newman).
2. Dominant Curl Gene: Unlike the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, where the curl gene is recessive, in Selkirks, it is dominant. This means a curly kitten can be born even if only one parent is curly.
3. “The Cat in Sheep’s Clothing”: The breed earned this nickname thanks to its thick, soft, and curly coat, which resembles sheep’s wool.
4. Even the Whiskers are Curly: A characteristic feature of the Selkirk Rex is their curly and often brittle whiskers (vibrissae).
5. From a Shelter: The breed’s foundation cat, Miss DePesto, was found in a regular animal shelter in Montana.
6. Curl Development: The Selkirk Rex kitten coat goes through several stages of development, and the final curl structure forms around two years of age.
7. Diverse Ancestry: Persian, Exotic, British, and American Shorthair cats participated in the breed’s development, which gave them a sturdy build and a diverse gene pool.
8. Any Color Allowed: The breed standard allows for absolutely all possible coat colors and patterns.
9. Not Just Curly: Straight-haired kittens can also be born in Selkirk Rex litters (if one of the parents is heterozygous for the curl gene). Such kittens are called “Selkirk Straights” and are valuable for the breeding program, although they cannot be shown as Selkirk Rexes.

Are Selkirk Rexes hypoallergenic?

No, there are no truly hypoallergenic cat breeds. Allergies are caused by the Fel d 1 protein found in a cat’s saliva, skin, and oil glands, not the hair itself. While some people with mild allergies may tolerate Selkirk Rexes better (perhaps due to the nature of their coat, which may shed less and be less prone to causing a reaction), this is very individual. If you have allergies, it’s recommended to spend time with a representative of the breed before getting a kitten. It’s also worth considering other breeds, such as the hairless Sphynx cat, although even they don’t guarantee a lack of reaction. You might also consider the stunning, long-haired Neva Masquerade.

How much grooming does their coat need?

The grooming needs of the Selkirk Rex coat are moderate. The main thing is to avoid brushing too often to preserve the curls. Gently combing with a wide-toothed comb 1-2 times a week (or less often for shorthairs) is enough to remove dead hairs. Bathing is only necessary when needed.

Are Selkirk Rexes good for families with children?

Yes, Selkirk Rexes are an excellent fit for families with children. They are very patient, calm, and affectionate. However, it is important to teach children how to handle the cat gently.

What is the lifespan of a Selkirk Rex?

With proper care and nutrition, Selkirk Rexes typically live for 12-15 years, and sometimes even longer.

How active are these cats?

Selkirk Rexes have a moderate activity level. They are playful, especially when young, but also love to relax and spend time on their owner’s lap. They don’t require as much physical activity as some more energetic breeds.

Do they shed a lot?

Yes, Selkirk Rexes shed, like most cats. Shedding may be more noticeable in long-haired individuals and during seasonal changes (spring, fall). Regular (but not frequent) brushing will help control the amount of hair in the house.