Selkirk Rex. Read all about Selkirk Rex cats. Information on the Selkirk Rex breed, physical traits, personality and special breed requirements.

Exquisitely plush with cascades of colourful curls, the Selkirk rex is perfect if you like the permed look.


From the moment they are born, curly kittens can be distinguished from their straight haired littermates by their curly whiskers. As they grow, the curl varies, but is always there.

Currently there are not many curly pets available - most curly cats, especially females, are in breeding programs. Males are usually more readily available and make wonderful, affectionate pets.

Description

Unlike Cornish or Devon Rexes, Selkirk Rexes have heavy bone structures. They have huge paws, thick tails, and full cheeks.

The medium to large body is well balanced with a muscular torso and a straight back that rises slightly toward the hindquarters. The tail is medium length and heavy at the base.

The Selkirk's head is round, broad and full-cheeked with round underlying bone structure. Well-padded whisker pads give the muzzle a square appearance.

The medium-sized, tapering ears are broad at the base and set well apart on the head. Large, rounded eyes, set well apart, give the cat an alert, inquisitive expression.

Their noses have a distinct curve. Selkirks have medium-length, thick coats, which is why they're often referred to the cat in sheep's clothing.

Their curls are thick and loose especially around the head and tails. Their whiskers are curly too.

The Selkirk comes in both shorthair and longhair varieties, and considerable difference exists between the two.

The coat of the shorthaired Selkirk is plush, medium in length, and curls over the entire body.

In the longhair, the dense, semi-long coat hangs in loose individual ringlets and has a more dramatic look - you can't miss those curly locks.

They are curious, tolerant, extremely sociable cats that enjoy spending time with their preferred persons.

People-oriented without being clingy, Selkirks have a generous measure of love and loyalty for their human companions.

Selkirks fit in well with other family members including children, and usually get along well with other companion animals.

Because they are very social, they don't do well in isolation or when left alone for long periods.

Selkirks are fun-loving cats that stay playful and kittenish well into adulthood.

Special Requirements

Shorthaired Selkirks have medium-length hair with loose, individual curls. A good once-a-week combing and an occasional bath will keep the shorthair looking sharp.

Longhaired Selkirks require more grooming, although not as much as you might expect. Combing twice a week with a good steel comb removes dead hairs and prevents matting.