The Selkirk Rex looks like a cat wearing a sheep costume -- big, round, and covered in plush, loose curls that give them a permanently tousled, just-rolled-out-of-bed look. Unlike the Cornish and Devon Rex (which are lean and angular), the Selkirk is stocky, round-faced, and built for cuddling.
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Montana, USA, 1987 (natural mutation) |
| Weight | 6-16 lbs (2.7-7.3 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Coat | Short or long, dense, plush curls |
| Distinctive Feature | Curly whiskers and eyebrows |
| Activity Level | Moderate -- playful but calm |
Three Rex Breeds Compared
| Feature | Selkirk Rex | Devon Rex | Cornish Rex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body type | Stocky, round, heavy | Pixie, elfin, slight | Lean, arched, whippet-like |
| Curl type | Loose, plush ringlets | Soft, sparse waves | Tight marcel waves |
| Coat density | Dense, full coat | Thin, can be sparse | Only undercoat |
| Gene | Dominant (Se) | Recessive (re) | Recessive (r) |
| Personality | Calm, patient, cuddly | Clownish, energetic | Athletic, perpetual kitten |
Personality
- Patient and tolerant: One of the calmest curly breeds
- Cuddly: Love being held, sitting on laps, sleeping with humans
- Playful but not hyperactive: Enjoy games without being demanding
- Good with everyone: Children, other cats, dogs, strangers
- Quiet: Soft voice, not demanding
- Teddy bear personality: Matches their teddy bear appearance
Coat Care
- Do NOT brush vigorously -- separates curls and creates frizz
- Gentle finger-combing or wide-tooth comb
- Curls look best 2-3 days after bathing
- Humidity enhances curls; dry environments flatten them
- Long-haired Selkirks: more dramatic curls, slightly more maintenance
- Short-haired Selkirks: tighter, plush curls, easier care
Health Considerations
- Polycystic Kidney Disease: From Persian ancestry. DNA test available.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Screening recommended
- Skin irritation: Dense curly coat can trap moisture -- keep dry
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Selkirk Rex cats shed?
Yes -- despite the curly coat, Selkirks shed moderately. The curls can trap shed hair (reducing airborne allergen spread), but you will still find fur on furniture and clothes. They are NOT hypoallergenic. The curly texture may slightly reduce visible shedding compared to straight-coated breeds of similar density.
