Selkirk Rex cat breed: facts, temperament and care

About the Selkirk Rex

The Selkirk Rex began in Montana in 1987, when a curly-coated kitten named Miss DiPesto was born in a litter at a rescue. A breeder, Jeri Newman, took her in and named the breed for her stepfather. Miss DiPesto was bred to a black Persian, and the curl proved to be a dominant gene, so one curly parent is enough to pass it on. Breeders have since added British Shorthairs, Exotic Shorthairs and Persians to the line.

The cat is solid and broad, with a rounded head and a medium to heavy body. The coat is the signature: thick, soft and plush, with loose curls that vary from cat to cat. It comes in short and long lengths, and the whiskers and eyebrows are often curly too.

Temperament and living with one

Selkirks are placid, patient and affectionate. They like laps, enjoy being handled and are usually good with children and other animals. They are intelligent and playful without being demanding, and are generally quiet, though they will answer when spoken to. They do not like long stretches alone and fit well into a busy household. Energy is moderate rather than high, so a few play sessions and a cat tree are enough.

Care: coat, food and play

The curly coat is dense and does not mat easily. A comb through once or twice a month is the usual advice, but avoid brushing a curly coat while dry, which can turn curls into frizz; lightly dampening it helps. Longhair cats need a little more attention. The curl can irritate the ears, so look at them often. Trim nails regularly. Feed a complete diet in measured meals to keep the cat lean.

Health

The breed is described as healthy and robust, with no breed-specific problems established. Because Persians, Exotics and British Shorthairs were used in its development, breeders often screen for polycystic kidney disease, hip dysplasia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Some also test blood type, since type incompatibility can cause trouble in newborn kittens. Ask a breeder for the screening results, and ask your vet about check-ups. Cats with two copies of the curl gene may have greasier skin and need bathing sometimes.

Is it right for you?

Choose a Selkirk if you want a calm, loving, plush cat that suits children and other pets. Expect shedding, since a rex coat is not low-shedding, and expect regular coat care. If you want a lighter-built curly cat with big ears, look at the Devon Rex or the Cornish Rex. For a similar rounded, placid type with a straight coat, see the British Shorthair.