Selkirk Rex (Longhair)
Breed Description

The Selkirk Rex name comes from the Selkirk Mountains near where the breed originated in Montana, combined with "Rex," a term used in cat fancy to denote curly or wavy coats. The breed's founder, Jeri Newman, named the breed after her stepfather's family surname, making it the first cat breed named after a person. This naming convention distinguishes Selkirk Rex from other Rex breeds like Cornish Rex or Devon Rex, which are named after their geographic origins.

Within the Selkirk Rex breed, there are two coat length varieties: shorthaired and longhaired. Both varieties share identical breed standards aside from coat length and grooming requirements. The longhaired variety is sometimes specified as "Selkirk Rex Longhair" or "Longhair Selkirk Rex" to distinguish it from the shorthaired variety. However, both are considered the same breed—Selkirk Rex—with coat length being the only significant difference. Both varieties can appear in the same litter.

The breed is sometimes nicknamed "the cat in sheep's clothing" or "poodle cat" due to the distinctive curly coat that resembles sheep's wool or a poodle's curls, particularly in the longhaired variety. These whimsical nicknames capture the breed's unique appearance and soft, plush texture. Some enthusiasts also call them "teddy bear cats" when referring to their cuddly, affectionate nature combined with their soft, curly coats.

No official alternate names exist beyond casual nicknames and coat length specifications. The breed is universally registered as "Selkirk Rex" across all major cat registries that recognize them, with coat length noted as a variety rather than creating separate breed names. The consistency in naming helps maintain breed identity while acknowledging the two coat length options.

The Selkirk Rex is officially recognized by all major cat registries including The International Cat Association (TICA), which granted championship status in 1992, and the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), which granted championship status in 2000. Other registries including the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) and international organizations also recognize the breed. This widespread recognition reflects the breed's appeal and the responsible development program established by early breeders.

Both shorthaired and longhaired Selkirk Rex are equally valued and shown in cat shows, with separate divisions for coat length in most registries. The longhaired variety often shows more dramatic curl and presentation due to their longer fur, though both varieties display the characteristic curly coat equally. Some people prefer one coat length over the other based on aesthetic preferences or grooming considerations, but both represent the breed equally.

The Selkirk Rex is one of four Rex breeds, each with distinct curl types and origins. Cornish Rex and Devon Rex have very different coat textures and body types—they're fine-boned with short, wavy coats. The LaPerm has a different curl pattern. Selkirk Rex stands apart with a more substantial, moderate body type and plush, loose curls rather than tight waves. The distinction between Rex breeds is important in breeding programs and show competition.

The Selkirk Rex is a medium to large cat with females typically weighing 6-12 pounds and males ranging from 11-16 pounds. They possess a substantial, well-muscled build described as semi-foreign or moderate—rectangular rather than cobby but not elongated. The body is medium-long with good muscle tone and medium-heavy boning creating a solid, powerful appearance. The overall impression is of a well-balanced, substantial cat with neither extreme bulk nor delicate refinement.

The Selkirk Rex's most distinctive and defining feature is the curly coat that sets them apart from all other breeds except other Rex varieties. The longhaired Selkirk Rex features loose, plush curls creating a soft, tousled appearance. The curls are most apparent in the coat on the body, the plumed tail, the ruff around the neck, and the toe tufts. The curl is uneven and random rather than uniform, creating a naturally tousled look that's particularly dramatic in the longhaired variety.

The coat texture is soft, plush, and springy with a dense feel. Unlike some Rex breeds with very short, tight waves, Selkirk Rex cats have looser, more relaxed curls creating a plush appearance. The longhaired variety's curls are particularly dramatic, with the longer fur creating loose ringlets and waves. Even the whiskers are curled, though they may break due to their curled structure. The curly coat is present from birth, though kittens go through various coat changes before developing their adult coat by about two years of age.

An interesting characteristic is that Selkirk Rex kittens are born with obvious curls that straighten somewhat around two weeks of age, then gradually curl again as the adult coat develops. The full coat curl stabilizes by about eight to ten months but continues maturing until about two years of age. This developmental progression means young Selkirk Rex cats may look quite different at various life stages before achieving their mature appearance.

Selkirk Rex cats come in all colors and patterns without restriction. Common colors include white, black, blue, red, cream, chocolate, cinnamon, lilac, and fawn. Patterns include solid, tabby (all variations), tortoiseshell, calico, bicolor, van, smoke, shaded, and pointed. This unlimited color variety means tremendous diversity within the breed, with every cat potentially looking unique. The curly coat enhances color and pattern expression, with the texture adding dimension to tabby markings and other patterns.

The head is round and broad with full cheeks and a well-developed muzzle. The skull is rounded, creating gentle contours rather than flat planes. In profile, the nose shows a gentle curve or stop rather than being completely straight or having a pronounced break. The muzzle is medium-short and well-developed with a firm chin. The overall head structure creates a sweet, gentle expression characteristic of the breed.

The eyes are large, round, and set wide apart. Eye color can be any shade and doesn't need to correspond to coat color, though pointed cats have blue eyes. Common eye colors include green, gold, copper, blue, and odd-eyed combinations. The large, expressive eyes contribute significantly to the breed's sweet, open expression. The wide setting and round shape create an alert yet gentle appearance.

The ears are medium-sized with rounded tips, set well apart on the head, and fitting into the rounded head contours. The ears may have curly furnishings in longhaired individuals, adding to the overall curly appearance. The ear placement and size contribute to the breed's balanced, proportionate appearance without dominating the facial structure.

The legs are medium in length with substantial bone and good muscle tone in proportion to the body. The paws are large, round, and firm with toe tufts in longhaired individuals. The tail is medium to long, in proportion to body length, and thickly furred with dramatic plumes in longhaired Selkirk Rex. The tail fur shows particularly dramatic curling, creating a luxurious, curly plume.

Not all Selkirk Rex cats have the same degree of curl. The curl gene is dominant, meaning only one parent needs to carry it for some kittens to have curly coats. Cats with two copies of the curl gene (homozygous) typically have more dramatic, consistent curl than cats with one copy (heterozygous). Some Selkirk Rex litters include straight-coated kittens that inherit no curl genes—these are called Selkirk Straight and are valuable in breeding programs for maintaining genetic diversity.

The overall impression is of a substantial, well-balanced cat with a unique, striking curly coat that creates instant recognition. The combination of moderate body type, rounded features, and plush curls creates cats that are both beautiful and distinctive, with particularly dramatic appearance in the longhaired variety.

The Selkirk Rex breed originated from a single spontaneous genetic mutation discovered in 1987 in Montana. A tortoiseshell and white kitten with an unusual curly coat was born in a litter of otherwise normal cats at an animal shelter in Sheridan, Montana. The kitten, later named Miss DePesto, had a distinctly curly coat, curled whiskers, and a unique appearance that immediately attracted attention. The shelter contacted Jeri Newman, a Persian breeder in nearby Livingston, Montana, who recognized the potential significance of this unusual kitten.

Newman adopted Miss DePesto and began studying her unique coat. Unlike other Rex breeds where the curl results from recessive genes, Newman discovered that Miss DePesto's curl was caused by a dominant gene. This meant that only one parent needed to carry the curl gene for some offspring to have curly coats, making breeding and establishment of the breed more straightforward than breeds with recessive traits.

To develop the breed, Newman bred Miss DePesto to her black Persian male, PhotoFinish of Deekay. The resulting litter in 1988 produced six kittens, three of which had curly coats. This confirmed that the curl gene was dominant and reliably heritable. The curly-coated kittens became foundation stock for the Selkirk Rex breed. Newman named the breed after the Selkirk Mountains near her home, making it the first cat breed named after a person (her stepfather's family surname) rather than a geographic location or physical characteristic.

Early breeding programs carefully established the breed through outcrossing to various breeds including Persian, Exotic Shorthair, British Shorthair, and American Shorthair. This outcrossing strategy was intentional and important—it prevented inbreeding, introduced genetic diversity, and influenced the Selkirk Rex's moderate body type and temperament. The Persian influence contributed to the plush coat texture and rounded features, while British and American Shorthairs contributed to the substantial body type and easygoing temperament.

The outcrossing also introduced both longhair and shorthair coat lengths into the breed, as longhair is recessive. From the beginning, both coat lengths appeared in litters and both were considered equally valid expressions of the breed. This differs from some breeds where coat length variations developed later or are considered separate breeds.

The breed gained recognition remarkably quickly given its recent origin. The International Cat Association (TICA) accepted Selkirk Rex for registration in 1990 and granted championship status in 1992—just five years after the breed's discovery. This rapid recognition reflected the breed's distinctive appearance, the dominant nature of the curl gene allowing consistent reproduction, and the responsible breeding program established by Newman and early breeders.

The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) accepted Selkirk Rex for registration in 1992 and granted championship status in 2000. Other registries followed with varying timelines, establishing the Selkirk Rex as internationally recognized. The breed standards emphasize moderate type—neither the extreme features of Persians nor the fine-boned structure of some other Rex breeds—creating a substantial, well-balanced cat.

Genetic studies have confirmed that the Selkirk Rex curl is caused by a dominant gene affecting hair shaft structure, making hair curl as it grows. The gene is different from those causing curls in other Rex breeds, meaning Selkirk Rex represents a unique genetic mutation. Researchers have mapped the gene responsible, contributing to understanding of hair structure genetics in mammals generally.

An interesting genetic aspect is that cats can be homozygous (two copies of the curl gene) or heterozygous (one copy) for the curl. Homozygous cats typically display more dramatic, consistent curl throughout their coats, while heterozygous cats may show more variable curl. Both are acceptable in breed standards, though breeders often prefer breeding heterozygous cats to maintain some straight-coated offspring for genetic diversity.

Straight-coated kittens born in Selkirk Rex litters are called Selkirk Straight. These cats share the breed's body type, temperament, and head structure but lack the curly coat. They're valuable in breeding programs, as breeding a Selkirk Rex to a Selkirk Straight produces curly and straight kittens while maintaining genetic diversity. Some registries allow Selkirk Straight cats to be registered and shown in separate categories.

Outcrossing was permitted in breed development and continues to be allowed by many registries to maintain genetic diversity. Accepted outcross breeds typically include Persian, Exotic Shorthair, British Shorthair, and American Shorthair. These outcrosses help maintain the moderate body type, plush coat texture, and genetic health that characterize well-bred Selkirk Rex cats.

Today, the Selkirk Rex is established worldwide with breeding programs in North America, Europe, and other regions. While not as numerous as some popular breeds, they maintain steady interest from people seeking unique appearance combined with wonderful temperament. The breed represents successful development from a spontaneous mutation through careful, ethical breeding practices that prioritized health, genetic diversity, and consistent type. From one curly shelter kitten in 1987 to an internationally recognized breed, the Selkirk Rex's development demonstrates how responsible breeders can establish distinctive, healthy breeds.

The Selkirk Rex temperament is characterized by patience, tolerance, and gentle affection. These cats are known for their easygoing, laid-back personalities and their devotion to their families. They're social without being demanding, affectionate without being clingy, and playful without being hyperactive. This balanced temperament makes them ideal for various household situations, from quiet homes to active families with children and other pets.

Affection is central to the Selkirk Rex personality. These cats form deep bonds with their families and show love through presence, gentle head bumps, and contentment to be near or on their owners. They're lap cats that enjoy being held and cuddled, often seeking out their favorite people for attention. Their affection is steady and reliable rather than erratic—they consistently offer companionship and warmth without being overwhelming or possessive.

The breed is notably social and friendly with everyone, including strangers. Selkirk Rex cats typically greet visitors with curiosity and confidence rather than hiding. They're outgoing enough to seek attention from new people but not so pushy as to be annoying. This sociability makes them excellent companions for households that entertain frequently or have varied visitors. They adapt well to new people and situations when properly socialized.

Patience and tolerance are hallmark Selkirk Rex characteristics. These cats accept handling, tolerate being groomed, and remain calm in various situations. They're patient with children who might be too enthusiastic, tolerant of other pets, and accepting of household changes. This patience doesn't mean they lack boundaries—they simply have high tolerance thresholds and prefer gentle removal from uncomfortable situations over defensive aggression.

Playfulness exists at moderate levels in Selkirk Rex cats. They enjoy interactive play with toys and games with their families, maintaining interest in play throughout their lives. However, their play style is gentle and controlled rather than wild or destructive. They appreciate regular play sessions but don't demand constant entertainment. Many maintain kitten-like playfulness well into adulthood, providing entertainment without being exhausting.

Intelligence is evident in Selkirk Rex cats. They learn quickly, understand household routines, and can be trained to perform tricks or follow commands. Many learn their names, come when called, and understand various words. They respond well to positive reinforcement training, eager to please their owners. Their intelligence combined with their patient nature makes training straightforward and rewarding.

Selkirk Rex cats are generally quiet and rarely vocalize excessively. When they do speak, their voices are soft and pleasant. They communicate needs through gentle meows and body language rather than constant chattering. This quiet nature makes them suitable for apartments and for people who prefer peaceful companions. They're not silent—they'll express themselves when necessary—but they're never demanding or intrusive with their vocalizations.

The breed adapts well to various living situations. They're comfortable in apartments or houses, with single people or large families, as only cats or in multi-pet households. This adaptability makes them versatile companions suitable for many different types of homes and lifestyles. They handle changes reasonably well when supported through transitions, though they appreciate routine and consistency like most cats.

Selkirk Rex cats typically get along well with other pets when properly introduced. They coexist peacefully with other cats and cat-friendly dogs, showing neither excessive dominance nor timidity. Their easygoing nature helps them integrate into multi-pet households smoothly. They often form bonds with other animals, providing and receiving companionship. Their non-confrontational temperament means they avoid conflicts rather than starting them.

Curiosity exists at moderate levels. Selkirk Rex cats take interest in their environment and household activities but aren't driven by intense curiosity like some breeds. They observe and occasionally investigate but don't compulsively explore every space or object. This moderate curiosity means they're engaging without being intrusive or constantly getting into things.

The overall Selkirk Rex temperament makes them ideal for people seeking affectionate, gentle, adaptable companions that truly become family members. They're suitable for first-time cat owners due to their easygoing nature. They're excellent for families with children due to their patience. They're perfect for seniors or people with limited mobility due to their calm demeanor. For those wanting cats that combine striking appearance with wonderful personality, Selkirk Rex cats deliver perfectly.

Caring for a Selkirk Rex involves understanding their social needs, providing appropriate grooming for their unique coat, and ensuring their physical and mental wellbeing. While their temperament is easygoing and adaptable, their curly coat requires specific care to maintain its health and appearance. Establishing good care routines early creates healthy habits that contribute to your cat's quality of life.

Physical exercise needs are moderate and manageable. Selkirk Rex cats benefit from daily interactive play sessions totaling 15-20 minutes or more, distributed throughout the day. Use toys that engage hunting instincts—feather wands, small prey toys, and interactive games. They enjoy climbing and jumping, so provide opportunities through cat trees and shelves. Regular play maintains healthy weight, provides mental stimulation, and satisfies their playful nature.

Environmental enrichment should include vertical space for climbing and observation. Cat trees, wall-mounted shelves, and window perches allow Selkirk Rex cats to survey their territory from elevated positions. Puzzle feeders and food-dispensing toys provide mental challenges that engage their intelligence. Rotating toys regularly maintains interest and prevents boredom. Their moderate energy means they don't require extreme environmental complexity but appreciate variety and stimulation.

Selkirk Rex cats are ideal indoor cats and should be kept exclusively indoors for their safety. Their friendly, trusting nature makes them vulnerable to outdoor dangers—they may approach anyone or anything without appropriate caution. Their unique appearance makes them theft targets. Indoor living with controlled temperature, safety from predators and traffic, and protection from diseases ensures the longest, healthiest life.

Grooming requirements for longhaired Selkirk Rex are moderate but specific to their curly coat. Brush 2-3 times weekly using a wide-toothed comb or soft slicker brush designed for curly coats. The goal is removing shed hair and preventing mats without destroying the curl structure. Excessive brushing can cause the coat to look frizzy or lose its curl pattern, so gentle, appropriate grooming is essential. Work through the coat carefully, paying attention to areas prone to matting: behind the ears, under the arms, the ruff, and the britches.

Unlike some longhaired breeds requiring daily grooming, Selkirk Rex coats trap shed hair within the curls, making loose hair less visible but requiring regular removal through grooming. The curly structure means the coat is less prone to severe matting than straight longhaired breeds when properly maintained, but neglect can still result in tangles requiring professional help.

Bathing is occasionally beneficial for Selkirk Rex cats, typically every 2-3 months. The curly coat can trap oils and dirt, and periodic bathing keeps the coat clean and enhances curl formation. Use lukewarm water and gentle cat-specific shampoo. Some owners use products designed for curly human hair, which can enhance curl definition. Towel dry gently and allow to air dry naturally—the coat will curl as it dries. Avoid excessive rubbing or blow-drying with high heat, which can damage curl structure.

Litter box management follows standard guidelines—one box per cat plus one extra, scooped daily, cleaned thoroughly weekly. Place boxes in accessible locations. Selkirk Rex cats are typically fastidious and maintain good litter box habits. Their curly coat may trap some litter, so regular inspection and gentle removal of any stuck litter helps maintain cleanliness.

Regular veterinary care is essential. Schedule annual wellness examinations where your veterinarian can assess overall health, update vaccinations, and check for early signs of health issues. Selkirk Rex cats are generally healthy but can be affected by conditions related to their diverse genetic background. Regular monitoring ensures any problems are caught early.

Maintain current vaccinations appropriate for indoor cats based on your veterinarian's recommendations. Implement year-round parasite prevention even for strictly indoor cats. Selkirk Rex cats should be spayed or neutered unless part of responsible breeding programs. This prevents unwanted litters, reduces certain health risks, and often results in calmer, more content pets. Microchipping provides permanent identification.

Socialization typically isn't challenging with Selkirk Rex cats due to their naturally friendly nature. However, providing varied positive experiences during kittenhood helps them become even more confident and adaptable. Handle them gently, introduce them to different people, and provide enriching experiences that build confidence.

The unique curly coat requires owners to understand appropriate grooming techniques. Over-grooming destroys curl structure, while under-grooming allows matting. Finding the right balance ensures your cat maintains their distinctive appearance while staying comfortable and healthy. Many breeders provide specific grooming guidance to new owners.

Feeding a Selkirk Rex properly supports their health, maintains their moderate build, and contributes to coat quality. As medium to large cats with moderate activity levels, they require high-quality, protein-rich diets. Look for cat foods listing meat, poultry, or fish as primary ingredients, with protein content of at least 30-40% on a dry matter basis for adults. Quality ingredients support overall health, energy levels, and the coat quality essential for this breed.

Both dry and wet food can be part of a healthy diet. Wet food provides excellent moisture content (75-80%) supporting hydration and urinary tract health. Many Selkirk Rex cats prefer wet food due to its palatability. Dry food offers convenience and may help maintain dental health through mechanical cleaning action. Many owners feed a combination—wet food for main meals and limited dry food for occasional snacking. Consult your veterinarian about the best approach for your individual cat.

Portion control is important for maintaining the Selkirk Rex's moderate build. These cats can gain weight if overfed, particularly given their moderate activity levels. Adult Selkirk Rex cats typically need 200-300 calories daily depending on size, age, and activity level. Males typically require more calories than females due to their larger size. Follow feeding guidelines on your chosen food package, adjusting based on your cat's body condition.

You should feel ribs easily without seeing them prominently, and cats should have visible waists when viewed from above. The breed's substantial build means they should feel solid and well-muscled without being overweight. Monitor body condition regularly and adjust portions if weight gain occurs. Preventing obesity is easier than treating it and supports overall health.

Establish regular feeding schedules rather than free-feeding. Most adult Selkirk Rex cats do well with two to three meals daily, spaced evenly throughout the day. Scheduled feeding helps monitor appetite and quickly notice changes that might indicate health issues. It also provides structure many cats find comforting. Kittens require more frequent feeding—three to four small meals daily until about six months of age—to support rapid growth.

Interactive feeding methods work well for intelligent Selkirk Rex cats. Puzzle feeders and food-dispensing toys provide mental stimulation while slowing eating to prevent digestive upset and obesity. These tools engage their problem-solving abilities and provide enrichment. Start with simple puzzles and gradually increase difficulty as your cat masters them.

Diet quality affects coat appearance and texture significantly. High-quality foods with appropriate nutrients support the distinctive curly coat that defines the breed. Foods with adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promote coat health, proper curl formation, and texture. Some lower-quality foods may cause dullness or changes in coat quality. The curly coat reflects overall health, making nutrition particularly important.

Some Selkirk Rex cats may have food sensitivities or allergies, though this varies individually. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive scratching, skin irritation, or ear infections. If your cat exhibits these symptoms, consult your veterinarian. They may recommend elimination diets or novel protein sources to identify problematic ingredients. Common feline allergens include certain proteins, corn, wheat, soy, and dairy products.

Fresh, clean water must be available at all times. Many cats prefer running water, so consider providing cat water fountains to encourage adequate hydration. Proper hydration supports kidney health, helps regulate body temperature, and contributes to overall wellbeing including coat quality. Change water daily and wash bowls regularly to prevent bacterial growth. Monitor water intake—significant changes can indicate health problems requiring veterinary attention.

Treats should comprise no more than 10% of daily caloric intake to prevent nutritional imbalances and weight gain. Use treats strategically for training and bonding, choosing healthy options like freeze-dried meat treats, small pieces of cooked chicken, or commercial cat treats designed for nutritional balance. Avoid human foods that are toxic to cats, including chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and products containing xylitol.

As your Selkirk Rex ages, dietary needs may change. Senior cats often benefit from foods formulated for mature cats that support kidney health, maintain muscle mass despite decreased activity, and provide appropriate calorie levels. Cats with health conditions may require prescription diets. Work closely with your veterinarian to adjust your cat's diet throughout life stages, ensuring optimal nutrition for changing needs while maintaining healthy weight.

Selkirk Rex cats are generally healthy with good genetic diversity resulting from careful breeding practices including outcrossing to various breeds during development. The breed's relatively recent origin and diverse genetic background help maintain overall health. With proper care, Selkirk Rex cats typically live 10-15 years. However, their genetic relationship to breeds like Persian and British Shorthair means they can potentially inherit health conditions from those breeds. Choosing kittens from responsible breeders who conduct health testing and avoid extreme features significantly reduces health risks.

While Selkirk Rex cats face potential health challenges primarily related to their diverse genetic background, many live healthy, active lives with proper care and attention. Choosing kittens from responsible breeders who prioritize genetic health and conduct appropriate testing, maintaining preventive care, managing weight, and addressing concerns promptly provides the foundation for your Selkirk Rex's best possible health and longevity. Their wonderful temperament and unique appearance make the commitment to their health care worthwhile for devoted owners.

The longhaired Selkirk Rex coat is the breed's signature characteristic—soft, plush, and distinctively curly with loose, relaxed curls creating a tousled, romantic appearance. The coat is medium-long to long with dramatic curl particularly visible in the ruff around the neck, the plumed tail, the britches on the hind legs, and the belly. Even the toe tufts and ear furnishings show curl. The whiskers are curled and may appear bent or broken due to their curled structure, which is normal and expected in the breed.

The curl texture is unique among cat breeds. The curls are loose and plush rather than tight or kinked, creating soft waves and ringlets particularly dramatic in the longhaired variety. The curl is random and uneven rather than uniform, giving each cat a unique appearance. Some areas may show more dramatic curl than others, which is normal and expected. The overall effect resembles soft wool or lamb's fleece, earning the breed nicknames like "cat in sheep's clothing."

Selkirk Rex cats come in all colors and patterns without restriction or preference. Common colors include white, black, blue, red, cream, chocolate, cinnamon, lilac, and fawn. Patterns include solid, tabby (all variations including classic, mackerel, spotted, and ticked), tortoiseshell, calico, bicolor, van, smoke, shaded, and pointed. This unlimited color and pattern variety ensures tremendous diversity within the breed. The curly coat enhances pattern expression, with tabby markings and other patterns appearing more dimensional due to the curl.

Eye color can be any shade and doesn't need to correspond to coat color, except that pointed cats have blue eyes. Common eye colors include green, gold, copper, blue, aqua, and odd-eyed combinations. This flexibility adds to the breed's diversity, allowing countless unique combinations of coat color, pattern, curl intensity, and eye color.

The coat development is interesting and unique. Kittens are born with obvious curls that straighten somewhat around two weeks of age. The coat then gradually curls again as the adult coat develops, with full curl not stabilizing until about eight to ten months of age. The coat continues maturing and may become more dramatic until about two years of age. This means young Selkirk Rex cats may look quite different at various life stages, which is normal for the breed.

Grooming requirements are moderate but specific to the curly coat. Brush 2-3 times weekly using a wide-toothed comb or soft slicker brush designed for curly coats. The goal is removing trapped shed hair and preventing mats without destroying the curl structure. Work through the coat gently, being careful not to over-brush which can cause frizzing or loss of curl definition. Pay attention to areas prone to matting: behind the ears, under the arms, the ruff, the britches, and the belly.

The curly coat traps shed hair within the curls, making loose hair less visible around the home but requiring regular grooming to remove trapped hair. This characteristic means Selkirk Rex cats may appear to shed less than straight-coated breeds, though the amount of hair shed is similar—it's just caught in the coat rather than falling freely. Regular grooming prevents the trapped hair from matting.

Bathing can enhance curl formation and is beneficial every 2-3 months. Use lukewarm water and gentle cat-specific shampoo, working it through the curly coat thoroughly. Rinse completely to remove all residue. Some owners use curl-enhancing products designed for human curly hair, which can help define curls. Towel dry gently without excessive rubbing, then allow to air dry naturally. The coat will curl as it dries. Avoid blow-drying with high heat, which can damage curl structure, though low, cool air-drying can be used if necessary.

Seasonal shedding occurs in spring and fall, with increased loose hair during these transitions. Increase grooming frequency during heavy shedding periods to remove trapped hair and prevent matting. Despite the curly coat, Selkirk Rex cats shed moderately and require consistent grooming to manage loose hair.

Nail trimming every 2-3 weeks maintains appropriate claw length and reduces scratching damage. Provide sturdy scratching posts to satisfy natural instincts. Most Selkirk Rex cats accept nail trimming well when introduced gradually with positive reinforcement.

Ear checks should be weekly, cleaning with veterinarian-approved ear cleaner only when wax or debris accumulates. The curly ear furnishings may trap dirt or wax, so regular inspection is important. Never insert anything into the ear canal. If ears show redness, excessive wax, or your cat shakes their head or scratches at ears frequently, consult your veterinarian.

Dental care through daily tooth brushing or dental treats supports overall health. Selkirk Rex cats generally tolerate tooth brushing well given their patient nature. Use cat-specific toothpaste and a soft brush or finger brush. The overall grooming routine for longhaired Selkirk Rex is moderate and manageable, requiring consistent attention but not excessive time. Understanding appropriate grooming techniques for curly coats ensures your cat maintains their distinctive appearance while staying comfortable and healthy.

Selkirk Rex cats are outstanding family cats that excel with children. Their patient, gentle nature and substantial size make them ideal companions for families with kids. They tolerate the activity and noise of family life well and often form special bonds with children. Their tolerance for handling that might annoy other breeds, combined with their playful but gentle nature, makes them among the best cat breeds for families with children of various ages.

The breed's remarkable patience makes them tolerant of children's antics. They accept being carried around, tolerate enthusiastic petting, and remain calm during active play. They rarely display aggression even during rough handling, preferring to tolerate or gently remove themselves rather than scratching or biting. However, teaching children appropriate interaction protects both cat and child and strengthens their relationship.

Children should learn to handle Selkirk Rex cats gently and respectfully. Teach kids to pet softly, particularly being careful with the curly coat which should not be pulled or excessively handled. Demonstrate gentle approaches and explain why chasing or startling cats is inappropriate. Supervise interactions with young children who may not understand proper handling. When children participate in feeding, gentle grooming, and play under guidance, they develop positive relationships with the family Selkirk Rex.

Selkirk Rex cats are suitable for families with children of all ages when appropriate supervision and teaching occur. Their patient nature and substantial size make them sturdy enough for family life with young children, though constant supervision with toddlers prevents accidental harm to either party. Older children who can understand and follow rules about gentle interaction make excellent companions for these cats.

Providing safe retreat spaces ensures the cat's comfort even in busy households. Cat trees, quiet rooms, or elevated spots give them places to rest when they want breaks from interaction. Teaching children to respect these boundaries helps everyone coexist happily. Most Selkirk Rex cats will eagerly return to family activities once they've had respite, as they genuinely enjoy being part of family life.

Regarding other pets, Selkirk Rex cats are exceptionally adaptable and integrate smoothly into multi-pet households. They get along well with other cats when properly introduced, showing neither dominance nor excessive timidity. Their easygoing nature helps them coexist peacefully with other felines. When introducing cats, follow gradual protocols with scent swapping, visual barriers, and supervised meetings. Selkirk Rex cats often form close bonds with other cats.

These cats appreciate having feline companions for entertainment and comfort. Their social nature means they often prefer having animal companions for interaction when humans are unavailable. Pairing a Selkirk Rex with another calm, friendly cat creates harmonious multi-cat households where cats provide mutual companionship.

Selkirk Rex cats also coexist exceptionally well with cat-friendly dogs, often forming close interspecies friendships. Their calm, friendly nature prevents them from provoking dogs, and their substantial size provides some protection. Many Selkirk Rex cats actively enjoy their canine companions' company, playing together and cuddling. Proper introductions involving controlled, supervised meetings help establish positive relationships.

Ideal canine companions include friendly, gentle breeds or individuals that enjoy feline company without being pushy or aggressive. Dogs with strong prey drives or that play too roughly aren't suitable companions for any cat. Introduce dogs and cats gradually, ensuring the dog is genuinely cat-friendly and will respect the cat's boundaries. Some Selkirk Rex cats initiate play with their dog companions and seek them out for companionship.

Small pets such as birds, hamsters, rabbits, or fish may be at risk around Selkirk Rex cats despite their gentle temperament toward humans and larger pets. All cats retain hunting instincts that can trigger predatory behavior toward prey-sized animals. While individual cats vary in prey drive, never assume any cat will consistently ignore small animals. Small pets should always be housed in secure, escape-proof enclosures inaccessible to cats.

With proper introduction, supervision, and respect for individual personalities, Selkirk Rex cats thrive in diverse family situations. Their patient temperament, friendly nature, and genuine enjoyment of companionship make them among the most adaptable and family-friendly cat breeds. They bring warmth, unique beauty, and devoted companionship to families who appreciate their combination of striking curly appearance and wonderful personality. Their tolerance, patience, and genuine enjoyment of family life make them ideal for households seeking fully integrated feline family members.