Origins
The Selkirk Rex is a breed of cat with highly curled hair, originating from Montana, USA in 1987. Unlike other Rex breeds, the Selkirk Rex’s hair is of normal length and not partly missing. The breed has been developed in two coat lengths, long and short, and is known for its plush and thick coat.
The Selkirk Rex is a large and solidly built breed, similar to a British Shorthair. The coat is very soft and has a woolly look and feel with loose, unstructured curls. The head is round, with large rounded eyes, medium-sized ears, and a distinct muzzle.
The Selkirk Rex is playful and enjoys a variety of toys. They have a lot of the laid-back, reserved qualities of the British Shorthair, the cuddly nature of the Persian, and the playfulness of the Exotic Shorthair.
The Selkirk Rex is known for its robust nature. They form strong bonds with their human family and are known to be loyal companions. They are a robust breed with no known health problems specific to the breed.
The Selkirk Rex requires regular grooming due to its dense, plush coat. They also require a balanced diet and plenty of playtime to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Homozygous cats (with two copies of the dominant Selkirk Rex gene) may have a tendency towards excessive greasiness of the coat, requiring increased frequency of bathing.
Major concerns: None
Minor concerns: Obesity if overfed
Occasionally seen: Dental issues, polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Suggested tests: Regular vet check-ups, genetic testing for Polycystic Kidney Disease
Life span: Not specified
The Selkirk Rex’s development as a breed has led to its widespread popularity in various countries, where it is celebrated for its unique curly coat and friendly nature. Its legacy as a versatile and loving companion continues to endear it to cat lovers worldwide.
