Selkirk Rex Breed Information

Selkirk Rex is a captivating and distinctive breed that stands out in the world of domestic cats. With its unique and luxurious curly coat, charming personality, and wide range of colors and patterns, the Selkirk Rex captures the hearts of cat enthusiasts seeking a one-of-a-kind feline companion. If you're intrigued to learn more about their curly coats, appearance, body, personality, origins, grooming and health, please read the information below.

Origin of Selkirk Rex

Discovery and Development:

The Selkirk Rex breed traces its origins back to the late 1980s in Montana, United States. The breed's story began with a curly-coated kitten named Miss DePesto, who was found in an animal shelter. Miss DePesto had a unique and spontaneous genetic mutation that gave her a curly coat, distinct from other curly-coated breeds like the Devon Rex or Cornish Rex.

Recognizing the potential of this new mutation, breeder Jeri Newman decided to incorporate Miss DePesto into a breeding program. Miss DePesto was bred to a Persian cat, and the resulting litter included both straight-haired and curly-haired kittens. It was discovered that the curly coat was caused by a dominant gene, meaning that even when bred to straight-haired cats, the offspring could inherit the curly coat trait.

Naming and Recognition:

The breed was named after the picturesque Selkirk Mountains near the breeder's home. The name "Selkirk" paid homage to Miss DePesto's original shelter name and also evoked a sense of natural beauty and ruggedness.

In 1990, the International Cat Association (TICA) recognized the Selkirk Rex as an official breed, granting it championship status in 1994. Other cat associations, including the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), also eventually recognized the breed.

Genetics and Breeding:

The Selkirk Rex's curly coat is a result of a different genetic mutation compared to other curly-coated breeds. Unlike the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, which have mutations affecting the structure of the hair shaft, the Selkirk Rex's gene affects all three layers of hair, resulting in a unique and distinct coat texture.

Due to its dominant genetic trait, even when a Selkirk Rex is bred to a straight-haired cat, there is a chance that some of the kittens in the litter will inherit the curly coat.

Breed Characteristics:

The Selkirk Rex's unique coat, combined with its friendly and gentle temperament, quickly gained the breed popularity among cat enthusiasts. The breed's distinctive appearance and charming personality make it a sought-after companion for those looking for a cat that's both visually striking and emotionally rewarding.

Coat Texture and Composition:

The hallmark feature of the Selkirk Rex is its distinctive curly coat. Unlike other curly-coated cat breeds, the Selkirk Rex's curls are a result of a dominant genetic mutation that affects all three layers of hair found in a cat's coat: guard hairs, awn hairs, and down hairs. This unique composition gives the Selkirk Rex's coat a plush, soft, and dense texture. The curls can vary in tightness and size, ranging from gentle waves to tight spirals. The coat is known for being particularly inviting to touch due to its plushness and warmth.

Body Structure, Eyes and Ears:

The Selkirk Rex has a well-rounded and substantial body structure. This breed is often described as having a medium to large build, with a broad chest and a muscular, yet plush and inviting appearance. Their round faces are framed by a curly ruff of fur, adding to their charming and distinctive look.

Selkirk Rex cats typically have large, expressive eyes that can be round or slightly oval in shape. Eye color varies and can include shades of green, gold, copper, and blue. Their ears are medium-sized and rounded at the tips, often adorned with tufts of fur at the base.

Personality Traits of Selkirk Rex

Affectionate and Sociable:

Selkirk Rex cats are known for their affectionate and loving nature. They often form strong bonds with their human family members and enjoy being close to them. These cats are more than happy to curl up on your lap for a cuddle session or follow you around the house as you go about your daily activities.

Gentle Demeanor:

With their calm and gentle temperament, Selkirk Rex cats make excellent companions for households with children and other pets. They tend to be patient and tolerant, which means they are less likely to get easily stressed or agitated in bustling environments.

Adaptable and Easygoing:

Selkirk Rex cats have a flexible and adaptable nature, making them well-suited for various living situations. They can thrive in both apartment living and larger homes. Changes in routine or environment are generally handled well by these cats, as they tend to maintain their friendly and affectionate disposition.

Playful and Curious:

Despite their laid-back demeanor, Selkirk Rex cats also possess a playful and curious side. They enjoy interactive play sessions, especially those that involve toys that stimulate their minds and engage their hunting instincts. This combination of playfulness and curiosity makes them enjoyable companions for interactive playtime.

Intelligent and Communicative:

Selkirk Rex cats are intelligent and attentive, often observing their surroundings and their human companions with keen interest. They may communicate through soft chirps, trills, or gentle purring to express their contentment or to get your attention.

Attention Seekers:

These cats are not shy about seeking out attention and companionship. They enjoy being involved in family activities and are likely to follow you around the house. Selkirk Rex cats are known for their ability to form deep emotional connections with their owners, making them loyal and devoted companions.

Grooming of Selkirk Rex

Grooming for Selkirk Rex cats is an important aspect to consider due to their unique curly coat. Here's more information about their grooming needs:

Grooming Frequency:

Selkirk Rex cats require regular grooming to keep their curly coats in good condition. The frequency of grooming depends on the tightness of their curls and the individual cat's coat. On average, these cats should be groomed about once or twice a week to prevent matting and maintain the coat's texture and appearance.

Brushing:

Regular brushing is essential to prevent tangles and matting in the Selkirk Rex's curly coat. A wide-toothed comb or a soft-bristle brush is recommended to gently work through the curls. Start at the tips of the hair and work your way toward the skin, being careful not to pull or tug on the hair. Focus on one section at a time, and be patient, as their coat can be quite dense.

Bathing:

Bathing is another aspect of grooming that can be beneficial for Selkirk Rex cats. While not required as frequently as brushing, occasional baths can help maintain the coat's softness and manage oil buildup. Use a mild, cat-friendly shampoo and lukewarm water. It's important to dry the cat thoroughly after a bath to prevent chilling.

Special Considerations:

The curly coat of Selkirk Rex cats makes them less prone to shedding compared to other breeds. However, their unique coat structure can sometimes lead to tangles or matting if not properly cared for. Pay extra attention to areas like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the neck, as these spots can be prone to matting.

Professional Grooming:

If you're not confident in grooming your Selkirk Rex yourself or if the coat becomes particularly challenging to manage, consider seeking the help of a professional groomer who is experienced with curly-coated breeds. Professional groomers have the tools and expertise to keep the coat in top condition and prevent any discomfort for the cat.

Nail Trimming and Ear Cleaning:

Regular nail trims are important for all cats to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Additionally, routine ear cleaning can help prevent wax buildup and maintain ear health.

Genetic Health of Selkirk Rex

In our cattery, we prioritize the health and well-being of our beloved Selkirk Rex cats. Before embarking on our breeding program, we conduct thorough genetic tests on both our breeding dams and sires. This proactive approach ensures that we are working with cats that have a clean bill of health and reduces the risk of passing on hereditary health concerns. Additionally, we are committed to providing the best possible start for our kittens. That's why we offer a two-year genetic health guarantee for each of our kittens, demonstrating our dedication to their long-term health and happiness.

When considering the health of the Selkirk Rex breed, it's important to note that they are generally healthy cats; however, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic health concerns. Responsible breeding practices play a crucial role in minimizing the risk of passing on hereditary health issues. Here are some genetic disorders that are important to be aware of:

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):

PKD is a genetic disorder that affects the kidneys, causing fluid-filled cysts to form. Although it's more commonly associated with the Persian breed, it can also occur in some lines of Selkirk Rex cats. Responsible breeders perform genetic testing to identify cats carrying the PKD gene and work to exclude these cats from their breeding programs.

Hip Dysplasia:

Hip dysplasia, which affects the hip joint and can lead to arthritis, is not exclusive to the Selkirk Rex breed. Nevertheless, responsible breeders focus on breeding cats with good hip conformation to reduce the risk of passing on this condition.

Obesity:

While not a genetic disorder, obesity can be a concern for any cat breed. Selkirk Rex cats are known for their love of food and their affectionate nature, which can contribute to weight gain. Obesity can lead to various health issues, including joint problems and diabetes.

Regular Health Checkups:

Like all cats, Selkirk Rex cats should receive regular veterinary checkups to monitor their overall health and address any concerns. Regular checkups can help catch potential health issues early and ensure that your cat receives appropriate care.