You can recognize a Selkirk Rex right away. This cat breed has a distinctive coat: it’s delightfully curly. This breed is relatively new and not widely known, which is a shame because it’s a super cute breed. That’s why we’re here to tell you all about it!
In this blog:
- Where Does the Selkirk Rex Come From?
- The Character of a Selkirk Rex
- What Does a Selkirk Rex Look Like: Appearance and Coat
- Hereditary Diseases and Conditions of a Selkirk Rex
- How Long Does a Selkirk Rex Live?
- Caring for a Selkirk Rex
- Buying a Selkirk Rex (Kitten)
Where Does the Selkirk Rex Come From?
In Montana, America, a litter of ordinary domestic cats was born in 1987. They all looked quite ordinary, except for one kitten. Miss DePesto, a cat with a coat of beautiful curls. She owed her unique coat to her parents. Even though her parents had a regular coat, they carried a special gene that they passed on to the kitten, resulting in her distinct coat.
This unique appearance naturally caught the attention of breeders who decided to further develop the breed. However, they wanted to create a better and healthier version. To achieve this, they crossed the breed with other breeds, such as the Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, British Shorthair, and Persian. From these crosses, the Selkirk Rex was born – a cat breed officially recognized by TICA in 1992 and later by CFA.
The Character of the Selkirk Rex
If you’re looking for a calm family cat, a Selkirk Rex is an excellent choice. These cats are very relaxed, get along well with children, and love cuddling and playing. They are also devoted to their owners and can easily adapt to a life in a house or an apartment. They don’t mind being picked up either, which is quite handy because everyone who sees these cats wants to cuddle them and feel the texture of their unique coat.
Fun fact: Selkirk Rex cats love to be picked up!
What Does a Selkirk Rex Cat Look Like: Appearance and Coat
You can instantly recognize a Selkirk Rex by its coat – it can be either short or long and has a curly texture, just like their whiskers, ear tufts, and eyelashes. According to breed standards, their coat can come in various colors, but pure solid colors are preferred, and a white bib (chest) is also acceptable.
These cats are of medium size and are muscular. The tails of these cats are long, their heads are broad and round, and their bodies are robust. Selkirk Rex cats have moderately large ears, which are slightly spaced farther apart than those of ordinary cats. The eye color can vary and generally complements the coat color.
Diseases and Conditions in Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex is generally a healthy breed since it is not extensively bred. However, like all other cats, they can still develop health issues. These health problems may occur in Selkirk Rex:
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):
This is an inherited kidney condition that is more common in Persian and Exotic Shorthair cats. Since Selkirk Rex cats were crossed with these breeds, they have a higher risk of developing this condition.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM):
HCM results in heart failure due to the thickening of the heart muscle in cats. This condition is common in many cats and can also occur in Selkirk Rex cats.
Eye Problems:
Like all other cat breeds, Selkirk Rex cats can experience eye conditions. One that is often seen in cats is PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy).
Joint Problems:
Selkirk Rex cats have a sturdy build, making them more prone to joint issues, such as hip dysplasia. Therefore, providing a well-balanced diet is essential for these cats.
How Long Does a Selkirk Rex Live?
A well-cared-for Selkirk Rex cat can live to be ten to fifteen years old. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper nutrition are crucial.
Caring for a Selkirk Rex
A Selkirk Rex cat requires good care, just like any other cat. Pay special attention to their curly coat, which has a thick undercoat that can lead to mats and knots. Longhaired Selkirk Rex cats should be brushed daily with a wide-toothed comb or brush, while shorthaired Selkirk Rex cats need weekly brushing. Diet is also important for this breed. Being robust, they can easily develop joint problems, so feeding the right food and ensuring they do not become overweight is vital. Taking care of a Selkirk Rex is similar to caring for any other cat:
- Affection and attention
- A safe home
- Regular vet visits
- Good nutrition
- A cat tree suitable for the breed
- Comfortable sleeping spots
- A clean litter box with quality cat litter
- Varied cat toys
- A tall scratching post with spacious resting spots
- Treatment for parasites, such as fleas, worms, and ticks
- Regular vaccinations
Buying a Selkirk Rex (Kitten)
If you want to have a Selkirk Rex cat, that’s great! This breed makes for a lovely household companion, especially for families with children. However, make sure to go to a reputable breeder or seek information from a breed club. This way, you can be certain you are purchasing a healthy cat that you can enjoy for many years. Remember that you should never buy a (purebred) cat from platforms like Marktplaats, eBay, or from a backyard breeder. If you’re less concerned about a cat’s appearance, consider visiting an animal shelter or rescue organization in your area, as there are many wonderful cats waiting for a loving owner.
Disclaimer: Petrebels is not a veterinarian or a behavior expert. All the content, information, and tips on this blog are intended to inspire and have an informational character. If your cat has health problems or issues, and you are unsure about their health, always consult with a veterinarian or a behavior specialist.