Selkirk Rex

Overview

The Selkirk Rex is a sturdy, plush-built rex breed with a uniquely curly coat that looks like a permed sheep. Sometimes called the "cat in sheep's clothing," the breed has a dense double curly coat - unlike the thin Devon or Cornish Rex coats - and a calm, patient temperament inherited from British Shorthair ancestry.

History & Origins

In 1987 a curly-coated kitten was born in a Montana animal shelter. The kitten - Miss DePesto - was adopted by Persian breeder Jeri Newman and bred to a Persian, producing the foundation of the breed. CFA recognition came in 2000.

Unlike the Devon and Cornish Rex (where the curl gene is recessive), the Selkirk curl gene is dominant. One curly parent produces some curly kittens.

Appearance

Medium-large, sturdy, cobby. Adults weigh 3.5-6 kg (8-13 lb).

• Coat: short or long, in dense loose curls all over the body. Two coat varieties - Selkirk Rex (short) and Selkirk Rex Longhair.
• Colour: all colours and patterns.
• Head: round, broad.
• Body: muscular, similar to British Shorthair.

Temperament & Character

Calm, patient, affectionate. The Selkirk has the British Shorthair's easygoing nature with a slightly more playful streak. Tolerant of children and other pets.

Care

Coat & Grooming

2-3 times weekly brushing for shorthair; daily for longhair. Don't over-brush - disrupts the curl. Bathe every 4-6 weeks.

Health & Lifespan

12-16 years.

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (Persian inheritance).
• Polycystic kidney disease (Persian inheritance).
• Hip dysplasia.

Choose a breeder DNA-testing for HCM and PKD.

Pros & Cons

Pros: unique curly coat, calm temperament, family-tolerant. Cons: PKD and HCM risks; moderate grooming.