Selkirk Rex History
  • This newcomer to the feline pedigree began July 4, 1988 when a Persian cat breeder named Jeri Newman of Montana bred a curly haired kitten from a nearby shelter with one of her black Persians. The litter of six yielding a trio sporting curly hair.
  • A breeding program was created that initially included Persians, British Shorthairs, Persians and Exotics until the unique Selkirk Rex look developed.
  • The Cat Fanciers Association accepted the Selkirk Rex in 2000.
Selkirk Rex Behavior Concerns
  • Super mellow and laidback, the Selkirk Rex prefers laps to running laps.
  • People enjoy this breed's quiet nature, gentleness and sweet affection.
  • One of the best traits of this breed is its patience with people and other pets. It is playful but not hyperactive.
  • This breed is best suited for stalking toys on the floor rather than leaping and swatting at wand toys.
  • Save room on your bed because this breed expects to share some Zzzz's with you.
Look of Selkirk Rexs
  • This breed puts the "C" in curly and cute, plus comes in many colors.
  • You can obtain shorthaired or longhaired plush coat versions. Both feel soft to the touch like a teddy bear.
  • One of the beefier breeds, the Selkirk Rex displays a cobby, solid build, strong legs and giant fuzzy paws. This is a heavy-boned and muscular breed.
  • Most are born with curls, but a few are born with straight hair. In some, the curls develop and become more prominent when the Selkirk Rex becomes an adult.
Grooming Selkirk Rex Cats
  • No need to brush more than once a week with a wide toothed comb - you don't want to take the curl out of its coat.
  • Selkirk Rexes belong to the "wash-and-wear" cat club, however, they are not recommended for individuals who are allergic to cat allergens.
  • Pay attention to the ears and keep them clean and free of ear wax.
  • Rarely needs a bath but when you do, blot them dry with a towel instead of using a blow dryer.
Suggested Nutritional Needs for Selkirk Rex
  • Serve high quality commercial food to keep its coat healthy and reduce shedding.
Fun Facts of Selkirk Rexs
  • The Selkirk Rex is often affectionately nicknamed a "cat in sheep's clothing" and the "cat with a bad hair day" due to its fuzzy, curly hair. However, some Selkirk Rexes have straight hair.
  • Sometimes confused as a curly British Shorthair or Persian.
  • The first Selkirk Rex kitten was named Miss DePesto after the curly-haired character in the popular television show, Moonlighting. All Selkirk Rexes trace their lineage to Miss DePesto.

Selkirk Rex

Selkirk Rex cat breed picture
Lifespan
10 - 15 years
Height
Weight
6 - 15 pounds
Selkirk Rex Traits
  • Lap Cat
    5 out of 5
  • Intelligence
    3 out of 5
  • Ease Of Training
    3 out of 5
  • Grooming Requirements
    2 out of 5
  • Shedding
    2 out of 5
  • Good With Children
    2 out of 5
  • Good With Dogs
    3 out of 5
  • Chattiness
    1 out of 5