Selkirk Rex: Complete Breed Guide

What Is a Selkirk Rex?

The Selkirk Rex is a naturally curly-coated cat breed that originated in Montana in 1987. Unlike the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex — which have slender, delicate builds — the Selkirk Rex is a sturdy, round-faced, medium-to-large cat with a plush, dense coat that comes in both longhair and shorthair varieties. Think of them as the teddy bears of the cat world.

The breed traces its roots to a single kitten named Miss DePesto, who was born in a litter at a Montana animal shelter. A Persian breeder named Jeri Newman recognized the unique curly coat and began a breeding program. The rest, as they say, is history. The breed was named after the nearby Selkirk Mountains — making it one of the few cat breeds named after a real person's (well, real mountain range's) geographical feature.

Selkirk Rex Personality and Temperament

If you're looking for a cat that's equal parts playful and cuddly, the Selkirk Rex personality is hard to beat. These cats are known for being patient, affectionate, and genuinely social. They love people — adults, children, and even strangers who come to visit. They're the kind of cat that greets you at the door and follows you from room to room, not out of neediness, but because they genuinely enjoy your company.

Selkirk Rex cats inherited wonderful traits from the breeds used to develop them — the laid-back sweetness of the Persian, the playful curiosity of the Exotic Shorthair, and the sociable nature of the British Shorthair. The result is a cat that's adaptable, easygoing, and a joy to live with.

• Affectionate: Selkirk Rex cats love to cuddle, sit in laps, and be close to their humans.
• Playful: They retain a kitten-like playfulness well into adulthood without being hyperactive.
• Patient with kids: Their gentle, tolerant nature makes them excellent family cats.
• Social: They get along well with other cats, dogs, and visitors.
• Not overly vocal: They communicate but aren't as chatty as Siamese or Oriental breeds.
• Adaptable: They handle changes in routine and environment better than many breeds.

For families with children, the Selkirk Rex is a fantastic choice. Their patience and gentle disposition mean they can handle the enthusiastic love of little ones, and their playful side means they'll happily join in games of fetch or chase a feather wand for hours. Just be sure to teach kids how to handle any cat gently and respectfully — even the most patient kitty has limits.

Selkirk Rex Appearance: Coat Types, Colors, and Build

The most striking feature of the Selkirk Rex is, of course, that gorgeous curly coat. But there's actually quite a bit of variety within the breed. Not every Selkirk Rex looks the same, and understanding the differences can help you know what to expect.

Interestingly, not all kittens in a Selkirk Rex litter will have curly coats. The curly gene is dominant (unlike in other Rex breeds), so roughly 50% of kittens from a curly-to-straight pairing will be curly-coated. Straight-coated Selkirk Rex cats are sometimes called "Selkirk Straights" — they have the same wonderful personality, just without the ringlets.

Longhaired Selkirk Rex cats tend to have more dramatic, flowing curls, while shorthaired ones have a tighter, plushier wave. Both are incredibly soft to the touch. Many owners describe petting a Selkirk Rex as being similar to squeezing a stuffed animal — you just can't stop.

Selkirk Rex Care: Grooming, Diet, and Exercise

Caring for a Selkirk Rex is straightforward, but their unique coat does require a slightly different grooming approach than a typical cat. Here's what you need to know to keep your curly companion happy and healthy.

Grooming That Curly Coat

The Selkirk Rex's coat is low-maintenance compared to what you might expect from all those curls, but it does need regular attention to prevent matting — especially in longhaired individuals. Here are the essentials:

• Brush 2–3 times per week with a wide-toothed comb or slicker brush. Over-brushing can straighten and frizz out the curls, so be gentle.
• Avoid fine-toothed combs — they pull out the curly hairs and can damage the coat's texture.
• Bathe occasionally (every few weeks) to prevent oil buildup. Their curly coats can trap more natural oils than straight-coated breeds.
• Use a gentle, cat-safe shampoo and let the coat air-dry when possible to preserve curl structure.
• Clean ears regularly — some Selkirk Rex cats produce more earwax than average, and those cute curly ear hairs can trap debris.

Diet and Nutrition

Selkirk Rex cats don't have specific dietary requirements beyond what any healthy cat needs. A high-quality, protein-rich cat food — whether wet, dry, or a combination — will keep them in great shape. Because they're a medium-to-large, stocky breed, it's important to monitor portion sizes and keep treats in moderation to prevent obesity, which can stress their joints and lead to other health issues.

Always make sure fresh water is available. Some Selkirk Rex cats enjoy a running water fountain, which can encourage better hydration. If you're ever unsure about the best diet for your specific cat, your veterinarian is always the best resource.

Exercise and Enrichment

While Selkirk Rex cats aren't as high-energy as breeds like the Abyssinian or Bengal, they're far from couch potatoes. They enjoy interactive play sessions, puzzle feeders, and climbing structures. A good 15–20 minutes of active play per day is usually enough to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Because they're so social, they don't do well being left alone for long stretches. If you work long hours, consider getting a companion pet — another cat or even a cat-friendly dog — to keep your Selkirk Rex company. They truly thrive on interaction.

Selkirk Rex Health: Common Issues to Watch For

Overall, the Selkirk Rex is a healthy, robust breed with a typical lifespan of 12 to 15 years (and sometimes longer with excellent care). However, because they were developed using Persian, Exotic Shorthair, and British Shorthair lines, they can be prone to some of the same health conditions as those breeds.

• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Inherited from Persian lines. Reputable breeders screen for this with DNA testing.
• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A heart condition common in many cat breeds. Regular cardiac screening is recommended.
• Hip Dysplasia: Can occur due to their heavier, stocky build. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce risk.
• Dental Issues: Some Selkirk Rex cats are prone to periodontal disease. Regular dental care — including brushing and vet cleanings — is important.
• Ear Infections: Their curly ear fur can trap moisture and debris, so keep those ears clean.

With regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and an attentive owner, Selkirk Rex cats live long, happy lives. They're resilient little (well, medium-to-large) creatures with a lot of love to give.

Are Selkirk Rex Cats Hypoallergenic?

This is one of the most common questions people ask about Rex breeds, and unfortunately, the answer is no — the Selkirk Rex is not considered hypoallergenic. In fact, because they have a denser coat than Devon Rex or Cornish Rex cats, they may actually produce more allergens (which come from the Fel d 1 protein in saliva and skin, not the fur itself).

That said, some allergy sufferers report fewer symptoms with certain individual cats, regardless of breed. If you have allergies but have your heart set on a Selkirk Rex, spend time around the specific cat before committing, and talk to your allergist about management strategies.

Selkirk Rex Fun Facts You'll Love

Every breed has its quirky, delightful details. Here are some of our favorite Selkirk Rex facts that make this breed even more endearing:

1. Curly whiskers! Selkirk Rex cats often have curly whiskers and eyebrow hairs, adding to their adorably disheveled look.
2. They're nicknamed "the cat in sheep's clothing" because their curly coat resembles a sheep's wool.
3. Kittens can lose their curls temporarily. Many Selkirk Rex kittens are born curly, lose their curls around 6 months, and then regain them by about 2 years of age.
4. The breed is relatively new. It was only fully recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 2000 and The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1994.
5. Both coat types come from the same litters. A single litter can have both curly and straight-coated kittens.
6. They come in every color imaginable — from solid black and white to tortoiseshell, tabby, colorpoint, and bicolor.

Is a Selkirk Rex Right for Your Family?

The Selkirk Rex is an excellent choice for a wide range of households. Their calm, affectionate personality makes them wonderful companions for families with children, seniors, singles, and multi-pet homes alike. They're adaptable enough to thrive in apartments or larger homes, as long as they have enough interaction and enrichment.

If you love a cat that's always ready for a cuddle, has a playful streak, and looks like a living plush toy, the Selkirk Rex might just be your perfect match. They bring joy, warmth, and a whole lot of curly-haired charm to any home.

Bringing Your Selkirk Rex Home: What to Expect

Whether you're adopting from a rescue or bringing home a kitten from a breeder, your Selkirk Rex will likely settle in quickly thanks to their adaptable nature. Have their essentials ready — a cozy bed, quality food, a sturdy scratching post, and some engaging toys. Give them a quiet room to decompress in initially, and let them explore the rest of your home at their own pace.

Expect those first few weeks to be full of discovery — for both of you. Your Selkirk Rex will want to investigate every corner, test every lap for comfort level, and figure out exactly which treat-delivery human is the easiest to train. (Spoiler: it's you.)

One of the best things about bringing a Selkirk Rex into your life is the bond you'll build. These cats have an uncanny ability to sense your mood and offer exactly the kind of companionship you need — whether that's playful energy or quiet, purring comfort. They become true members of the family, and you'll wonder how you ever lived without those curls.