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Cat Breed Profile: Things to Know About the Selkirk Rex Cat
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- PetsTime editorial team
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- Cat Breeds
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- 5 min read

Selkirk Rex cats are one of the most unique breeds of cats in the world. They are known for their curly fur, which gives them a very distinctive appearance. Selkirk Rex cats come in both short-haired and long-haired varieties, and they can be found in a variety of colors and patterns.
Selkirk Rex Cat Breed: Basic Information
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The Selkirk Rex is a medium to large sized cat with a thick, plush coat that can be either curly or wavy. They are known for their gentle and laid-back personalities, and make great companions for families with kids and other pets. While they are not overly active, they do enjoy playing and will keep you entertained with their silly antics.
Selkirk Rex: History
The history of the Selkirk Rex cat began in 1987 with a stray kitten named Miss DePesto. She was found on the streets of Montana by Persian breeder Jeri Newman, who noticed that she had something unusual about her fur. It was kinked, curly, and had a very different texture from the other cats in her cattery. Newman decided to see if she could reproduce this coat type, and crossed Miss DePesto with a black Persian male.
The resulting Selkirk Rex is known for its unusual coat, which is curly and reminiscent of lamb’s wool. Today, these cats are still relatively rare, but they are growing in popularity due to their unique appearance and loving personalities.
We develop the subject in a separate piece: The History of Himalayans.
Selkirk Rex: Appearance and Breed Characteristics
The Selkirk Rex is a type of cat that is known for its unique appearance. The most notable feature of the Selkirk Rex is its curly coat, which can range from loose and wavy to tight and spiraled. The coat is caused by a genetic mutation, and all Selkirk Rex cats are descendants of a single cat named Miss DePesto. The coat can come in a variety of colors and patterns, but all of these cats have a thick ruff around their necks. They typically have medium-sized bodies and round faces, with large eyes and ears.
Selkirk Rex: Maintenance and Grooming
The Selkirk Rex is a luxurious breed of cat known for its thick, curly coat. While the coat may be beautiful, it does require some special care to keep it looking its best. Daily brushing will help to remove knots and tangles, and regular trimming will help to prevent the coat from becoming too long or unruly.
In addition, the Selkirk Rex shed more than other cats, so regular vacuuming is also recommended. Despite the extra effort required, many owners find that the Selkirk Rex is well worth the effort thanks to its affectionate and loyal nature.
Selkirk Rex: Activity Levels
The Selkirk Rex is known for being a calm and easygoing cat, and it is an ideal choice for families with young children. The breed does not require a lot of exercise, and it is content to spend most of its time lounging around the house. Cats of the Selkirk Rex breed generally have good health, although they are prone to weight gain if they do not get enough exercise.
Selkirk Rex: Training
Selkirk Rexes are also intelligent and playful cats, making them enjoyable companions. However, they can be challenging to train, as they often prefer to do things their own way. As a result, Selkirk Rexes are not the best choice for those looking for a highly obedient pet. But for those who don’t mind a little extra effort, these cats can make loving and rewarding companions.
Related reading: Cat Breed Profile: Things You Should Know before Buying a Burmese Cat. Breed Information for Future Burmese Owners.
Selkirk Rex: Personality and Temperament
If you’re looking for a cat with a laid-back personality, the Selkirk Rex is a breed worth considering. These cats are known for being calm and mellow, and they tend to get along well with other pets and children. While they’re not particularly active, they do enjoy playing and can be quite vocal when they’re feeling playful.
They’re also known for being very affectionate, and they love to cuddle up with their humans. If you’re looking for a relaxed and loving companion, a Selkirk Rex might be the perfect fit for your family.
Selkirk Cat: Common Health Problems
Like all cats, Selkirk Rexes are susceptible to a number of health problems. Fortunately, many of these conditions can be prevented with proper care. For example, all cats should be vaccinated against common diseases such as rabies and feline leukemia.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint. It is a congenital condition, which means it is present at birth. Hip dysplasia can be mild or severe, and it can lead to arthritis in the affected joint.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle. It can be inherited or acquired. Cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure and death.
Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic kidney disease is a condition that affects the kidneys. It is a hereditary condition, which means it is passed down from the parents to the offspring. Polycystic kidney disease can lead to renal failure and death.
Selkirk Rex: For Whom?
They are very adaptable and can thrive in both indoor and outdoor environments. As a result, Selkirk Rex make ideal pets for families with small children or other pets. In addition, their short, dense coats require very little maintenance, making them perfect for busy households. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back lap cat or an energetic playmate, a Selkirk Rex is sure to fill the bill.
We cover this in more depth in the same section: The Exotic Shorthair Cat Breed Profile: The Short-Haired Counterpart to the Persian.
Selkirk Rex Kitten Price
What sets the Selkirk Rex apart from other Rex breeds is its dense, plush coat. Selkirk Rex kittens are typically born with straight fur, but as they mature, their coats begin to curl. Unlike some other breeds of curly-coated cats, the Selkirk Rex’s coat is non-matting and requires very little grooming. Due to their unique appearance and friendly personalities, Selkirk Rexes have become increasingly popular in recent years. While there is no set price for a Selkirk Rex kitten, potential buyers can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1,500.