Different Genetic Conditions of Selkirk Rex
The terms "homozygous," "heterozygous," and "straight" in the context of Selkirk Rex refer to different genetic conditions that affect the curliness of the cat's coat. These conditions are related to the presence or absence of the Selkirk Rex gene (also known as the "S gene") which controls the development of the curly fur in this breed.
Homozygous Selkirk Rex (ss):
A cat that is homozygous for the Selkirk Rex gene has two copies of the S gene, one from each parent. This results in a cat with a very curly or "rexed" coat. The curling of the fur is usually more pronounced in homozygous Selkirk Rex cats. These cats tend to have a very curly coat all over their body, including the whiskers.
Heterozygous Selkirk Rex (Ss):
A cat that is heterozygous for the Selkirk Rex gene has one copy of the S gene and one copy of the non-rexed gene (typically denoted as "s"). Heterozygous Selkirk Rex cats have a coat that is partially curly. The degree of curliness can vary from cat to cat, but it's usually less pronounced than in homozygous cats. Some heterozygous Selkirk Rex cats may have straighter areas of fur mixed with curly patches.
Straight-Haired Selkirk Rex (ss):
A cat that does not carry the Selkirk Rex gene (two copies of the non-rexed gene, "ss") will have a straight or normal coat without curls. These cats lack the characteristic curly fur associated with Selkirk Rex and typically resemble cats of other breeds in terms of coat texture.