Selkirk Rex Cats 101 : Fun Facts & Myths
Channel: Kitten Life
Date: 2020-11-17

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In today's video, we are going to talk about some interesting facts and myths, about the Selkirk Rex Cat.

The Selkirk Rex is an interesting cat breed, easily defined by their uniquely curly coats. While they are one of the only four, curly-haired cat breeds to date, this cat breed is much different from the other curly-haired Rex breeds, that you may know–such as the Devon Rex and the Cornish Rex.

The Selkirk Rex cat is the perfect feline, for someone who wants an extra soft companion to cuddle with. Called the "cat in sheep's clothing, their unusual curly hair is coupled with a gentle, calm temperament.

One of the interesting features of this breed is that they are the only cat breed named after a person, the stepfather of the original breeder. The cat was found in a shelter in Montana in 1987 and its curly fur is a naturally occurring genetic mutation. This curly-haired cat was bred to a Persian to produce more curly-hair kittens and the breed's development began. The Selkirk Rex was recognized by the International Cat Association in 1994 the Cat Fanciers' Association in 2000.

The Selkirk Rex breed has become a well-loved choice for owners, thanks to its peaceful and tender character.  

The Difference Between Selkirk and Other Rex Cats.

One of the main differences between these breeds is that the gene for the Selkirk's curly hair is dominant. In the Cornish, and Devon Rex breeds the gene causing their unique fur is recessive. In terms of their body shape, the Selkirk is also stockier, and rounder than the other two breeds.

1. Selkirk Rex Physical Characteristics.

The Selkirk looks much like the British Shorthair cat, with a cobby and heavy-boned body, and a round head and eyes. They also have a distinctive "flat" area between their ears, on the top of their heads. The breed weighs around nine to 16 pounds with males larger than females.

2. Naturally Occurring Curls.

These cats developed their curls through a natural genetic mutation. In 1987, a Calico shelter cat gave birth to a litter of kittens, and one of these cats was born with curly hair all over its entire body. This kitten then became the foundation of the breed, named the Selkirk Rex. The Selkirk Rex can come in both short and long hair varieties. It's also possible for a litter to produce kittens with straight hair. Their coat comes in about every solid color and pattern, including points, shaded, smoke, chinchilla, mink, sepia, van, bicolor, tabby, tortoiseshell, and calico. Not all Selkirk’s are born with curly hair, some change to curly as the cat matures through adolescence.

3. Grooming a Selkirk Rex.

They are not a heavy shedding breed, and their coat is relatively easy to care for. They will need a weekly combing to keep their hair clean and remove any mats. They should not be brushed as this can damage their curls which can be brittle. 

In spite of having a curly fur coat, the Selkirk Rex needs only a minimal amount of maintenance. You should brush the coat every week or 1 time per 3 days will keep it looking good

4. Is the Selkirk Rex Hypoallergenic?

No cat is truly hypoallergenic, and the Selkirk Rex is no exception. They produce the same type of dander that affects people with allergies. They also are moderate shedders, so they are not a good choice if pet hair is an issue for you.