Selkirk Rex: Height, Weight, Lifespan, Personality, Special Info & More…

A medium to large cat, the Selkirk Rex’s build shares traits with other cats in the “rex” class, which refers to breeds that carry a genetic mutation for curly or wavy hair, such as the Devon Rex or Cornish Rex. She is solid like a Cornish and strong like a Devon, but the Selkirk’s body is stockier than these slender, elfish cats, and her face is round rather than narrow with ears.

According to The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), her legs, especially the feet, give her the appearance of a curly British Shorthair, but that is her breed.

The Selkirk Rex is famous for her soft, curly hair which has earned her the nickname “Cat in Sheep’s Clothing”. His loose, flowing curls and curly mustache are present at birth. The curly-haired gene is dominant, but not all Selkirks are born with these ringlets. Some have straight hair. Long-haired Selkirks have long ringlets, while short-haired Selkirks have short, tight curls. Her “teddy bear” physical characteristics make her the perfect choice for pet parents looking for a fun-loving and cuddly friend.

What the Selkirk Rex cat breed has in common with its Rex relatives is its lively, energetic, and friendly nature. She has a vibrant personality and is patient with youngsters and dogs (as long as they return the affection), making her a great addition to a family with children and other pets.

• Origin: United States
• Height: 9–11 inches
• Weight: 6–16 pounds
• Length: Up to 30 inches
• Lifespan: 15–20 years
• Colors: Selkirks come in all colors and coat patterns.

Selkirk Rex Breed Characteristics:

Curly-coated cats occasionally come along as a result of spontaneous genetic mutations. The tolerant and gentle Selkirk Rex is one such breed, developed in 1987 from a curly-coated cat found in a shelter.

It takes its name from the nearby Selkirk Mountains. Selkirk Rex are docile and sociable. He is affectionate and loves to cuddle, making him a good choice for families with older children, other pets or frequent guests. Assuming he was well socialized as a kitten, he can be a good traveler and make an excellent therapy cat.

The Selkirk is by no means a couch potato, but it is more comfortable to live with than a Cornish or a Devon Rex.

All three Rex breeds share the same curly coat, but Selkirk’s body type and personality are very different from Cornish and Devon Rex. Persian, Exotic Shorthair, and British Shorthair were used to develop it, it has a round head, round eyes, a heavy, muscular body, and a sweet, calm personality.

It is a medium-sized big cat weighing six to 16 pounds, with females on the smaller side. Selkirk rakes come in many colors and patterns, including pointed ones. The coat can be short-haired or long-haired. Selkirk Rexes typically live 13 or more years.

Which Types of Allergies for This Breed?

You may have heard that the Selkirk Rex coat is hypoallergenic due to its texture, but that is not true. Allergies are not caused by any particular type of coat but by dander, the dead skin cells that are shed by all cats (and people, for that matter). There is no scientific evidence that any breed or crossbreed is more or less allergenic than other cats.

Some people with allergies react less strongly to certain cats, but no reputable breeder will guarantee that his cats are hypoallergenic.

The Selkirk Rex is perfect for any home with people who will love it, play with it, and even care for it. Keep him indoors to protect him from cars, diseases spread by other cats, and attacks from other animals.

History About Selkirk Rex:

Making its debut in Montana in 1987, the Selkirk cat breed (named after the original breeder’s stepfather) is relatively new, but it didn’t take long for cat organizations and pet lovers to take notice.

Selkirk Rex curls are the result of a natural mutation found in the litter of kittens produced by a blue tortoiseshell cat and a white cat.

This curly-haired kitten, whose siblings all had straight hair, also had the curly whiskers for which Selkirk is known today.

The woman who adopted this unique kitten (and named her Miss DePesto because of her sad personality) discovered that while the mother cat’s fur was a bit frizzy,

“Ms. DePesto’s kittens all had normal coats and there were no other curly-haired cats in the area, leading her to believe that Miss DePesto may be the source of the new mutant Rex gene,” notes the International Cat Association…

What makes this Rex different from other curly-haired breeds is that the gene is dominant in the Selkirk, as in the Devon and Cornish breeds.

In just a few years, the charismatic Selkirk Rex cat breed was recognized by various cat associations around the world and, despite its rarity, continues to gain popularity.

Appearance of This Cat Breed:

Selkirk Rex can have short hair or long hair. Both coat lengths exhibit curls, but the curling is more dramatic in long-haired Selkirk Rex. Selkirk’s mustache is also curly. The coat is soft and plush, with a luxurious feel.

In a litter of Selkirk Rex kittens, some will have curly hair and some will have straight hair. Straight-haired Selkirk Rex kittens make wonderful pets, although you won’t see them competing in the show ring.

This breed is strongly built, with significant muscle and boning.

Temperament of Selkirk Rex:

Their curly coats aren’t the only thing that makes Selkirk Rex special. These elusive beauties are also valued for their quirky, energetic, and friendly nature.

“The Selkirk Rex is generally a very loving cat with a lot of personality,” says Bonk. “They are affectionate and sometimes needy, but not overly pushy. They love to cuddle in your lap but also have a fun-loving side that can cause them to do some hilarious antics when the mood strikes.”

As an intelligent breed, Selkirk Rex cats can easily become bored if not mentally stimulated. So as a pet parent, you need to make sure your cat has access to plenty of toys and quality play sessions. Their wavy coats make them extra huggable, but don’t expect them to be lazy lap cats—these cats love to be busy.

Personality of This Cat Breed:

One may first be attracted to the Selkirk’s cute and curly exterior, but these cats also make champion companions.

Selkirks can be sweet cats with a generous measure of love and affection for their human companions. Very people-oriented, they are loyal and loving throughout their lives. They are people-oriented cats who enjoy spending time with their favorite people.

Selkirks make very attractive and affectionate companions. They are people-oriented, enjoy sleeping with their human companions, and enjoy sitting next to you or you. They do not demand a lot of attention, but they are very social and like to interact with their people. They don’t do well in isolation.

Selkirks generally get along well with other cats dogs and other family members. They have incredibly loving, playful personalities.

What’s the Kind of Health Problem for This Cat Breed?

Like many purebred cats, the Selkirk Rex is susceptible to certain inherited genetic conditions. Some of the congenital diseases that can be seen in Selkirk Rex include:

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Hip dysplasia
Polycystic kidney disease is a condition in which cysts on the kidneys at birth cause problems with kidney function and eventually, kidney failure. PKD is common in Persian cats and exotic shorthairs.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a disease that causes the heart muscle to thicken, is common in Persian cats and British Shorthairs. Hip dysplasia is common in Persians.

All of these breeds are part of the Selkirk Rex background. Genetic testing for PKD is available, and screening may be performed to determine if a cat is likely to be free of HCM and hip dysplasia.

Reputable Selkirk Rex breeders screen their adult cats before breeding them to ensure they do not pass on the condition and maintain the health of the breed as a whole.

How to Take Care of Selkirk Cat?

The coat of the Selkirk cat is not excessive, but it requires unique care because any loose hair gets trapped in the coat instead of falling onto your clothes and furniture. When loose hair remains in the coat, it can cause the coat to become matted.

Excessive brushing of the coat is discouraged as it loosens the curls. Instead, combing with a wide-toothed comb will help prevent mats while maintaining the coat’s curls.

In addition to combing, regular bathing can also help prevent matting. The Selkirk Rex’s coat looks best when washed with a mild shampoo that doesn’t weigh down the coat. Ask your breeder or professional groomer for a shampoo recommendation.

Avoid using conditioner or conditioning sprays, which can tangle curls. After showering, towel dry to remove most of the water, then let the coat air dry. Hair dryers can result in frizz or flat coats instead of crisp curls.

Trim nails and check ears weekly. If the ears seem dirty, clean them with a cotton ball or gauze square and a pet-safe ear cleaner.

Which Types of Best Food For This Cat?

• Hill’s Prescription Diet y/d with Chicken Wet Cat Food
• Hill’s Prescription Diet y/d Chicken Flavor Dry Cat Food
• Hill’s Science Diet Adult Chicken Recipe Cat Food
• Hill’s Science Diet Adult Ocean Fish Entrée Cat Food

What kind of Feeding to This Cat Breed?

Every cat is unique and each has its unique likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food.

However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The amount of these nutrients varies based on age, lifestyle, and overall health, so it’s no surprise that a growing, energetic kitten needs different nutrients in its diet than a less active senior cat.

Other things to keep in mind include feeding the right amount of food to maintain an ‘ideal body condition’ according to dietary guidelines and catering to individual preferences regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Facts About Grooming Selkirks Cat:

Selkirks can develop mats in their coats. Prevent matting by combing once or twice a week. Combing will also remove dead hair. Do not overgroom, as you can straighten the coat.

Oil does not spread as easily in fine hair as it does in fine hair. Rex cats can accumulate oil on their skin, which can cause skin problems. Their skin may feel sticky or irritated.

Most cats rarely need a bath, but Selkirks may need an occasional bath to keep their hair from getting too oily. Blotting dry will preserve their disheveled appearance. Check your cat’s ears regularly for dirt and excess wax. Your vet can show you how to clean them.

A persistent build-up of earwax can mean an ear infection.

How to Train This Breed Cat?

Importance of Selkirk Rex Cat Training:

The Selkirk Rex is a breed of adorable curly-haired cats and their looks can fool you. You have to be strict with your cat from the moment he comes home. Your attitude towards your cat in the early stages will be a determining factor in the behavior of your adult cat. Selkirk Rex cats are cats that remain kittens throughout their lives.

They are chirpy and playful and can adapt to other pets you may have. They have that bubbliness and loads of energy. A daily evening walk may not satisfy your cat. Therefore, training and exercise are really important for them to lead a healthy and active life. You should not delay training your cat.

Useful Training Equipment and Accessories for Selkirk Rex Cat:

Earlier cat owners were very limited. They were considered ladies’ pets, but that stereotype has since been broken. The cat market is growing rapidly and you are offered a wide variety of training equipment to choose from.

You should research and analyze your cat’s preferences and choose the right training equipment accordingly. Training equipment not only increases the effectiveness of training but also makes it a fun exercise and playtime for your cat.

Clicker Training:

This is a tried and tested way to train your Selkirk Rex cat as he is playful and will fall in love with the sound of your clicker. You will see a playful kitten whenever he hears a sound. That will be his reward.

Positive Training:

Rewarding your cat when it exhibits the desired behavior will help it understand what is expected of it and continue to behave well for praise and rewards. This method of training is very motivating for your cat.

How to Training Exercise This Cat Breed?

Selkirk Rex cats love to play, especially when they have the opportunity to interact with their human or feline friends. These cats also have a strong appreciation for jumping and climbing; You may want to offer a tall cat tower and perhaps a window seat that offers a great view of the outdoors.

In addition, your cat will appreciate little scratching posts, puzzle toys that stimulate curiosity, and other play items, including empty boxes and crumpled paper bags.

You don’t need to encourage the Selkirk Rex to play during the cat’s younger years; however, they may need some encouragement as they age and become obese.

Selkirk Cat Breed Adoption Center:

A breeder is not your only option for obtaining a Selkirk Rex. Adult Selkirk Rex may be available from rescue groups. It’s unlikely you’ll find a Selkirk Rex in the shelter, but it doesn’t hurt to look.

Sometimes pedigree cats end up in a shelter after losing their home due to an owner’s death, divorce, or change in financial circumstances. Check listings on Petfinder, Adopt-a-Pet.com, or Fancier’s Breeder Referral List and ask breeders if they know of any Selkirk Rex that need a new home.

Wherever you get your Selkirk Rex, make sure you have a good contract with the seller, shelter, or rescue group that outlines the responsibilities on both sides. In states with “pet lemon laws,” make sure both you and the person you’re getting the cat from understand your rights and remedies.

Kitten or adult, take your Selkirk Rex to your veterinarian immediately after adoption. Your veterinarian will be able to detect problems and work with you to set up a preventative regimen that will help you avoid many health problems.

See More Cat Breeds For Further Research:

• Ragamuffin
• Singapura cat

FAQs About Selkirk:

How much is Selkirk Rex Cats’ price in India?

Selkirk Rex Cats Price ₹ 95,000.00.

Do Selkirk Rex cats shed a lot?

Regular combing will also keep your cat’s hair from accumulating throughout the house, as Selkirk Rex sheds moderately, especially in the summer when shedding is at its peak. The Selkirk Rex cat is a healthy breed that remains active throughout its life, especially with regular maintenance.

Is Selkirk Rex rare?

This cat breed is intelligent, loving, easy-going, and gets along well with people and other animals. Because the breed was only developed in the 1980s, Selkirk Rex is still not as common as some other breeds, but their one-of-a-kind looks and personalities are definitely worth seeking out.

Are Selkirk Rex cats friendly?

The tolerant and gentle Selkirk Rex is one such breed, developed in 1987 from a curly-coated cat found in a shelter. It takes its name from the nearby Selkirk Mountains. Selkirk Rex are docile and sociable.

How long does Selkirk Rex live?

Usually curly – they can be long-haired and curly, and short-haired and curly – but occasionally there are straight-haired Selkirk Rex cats. Despite the appearance, the coat does not require much grooming, allowing the curls to emerge. Lifespan: A life expectancy of about 14 years is normal.