Selkirk Rex
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.
