The Hypoallergenic curly-coated charmer

Is the Selkirk Rex your ideal companion?

The Selkirk Rex is a cat breed known for its naturally curly, dense coat, which can be either short or long. They are a friendly, patient, and people-oriented breed that adapts well to different living situations. A unique characteristic is that kittens are born with a curly coat that may temporarily straighten before regaining its curls around 8 to 10 months of age. 

Appearance and coat

• Coat: The defining feature is the curly coat, which can be short or long. The curls are soft and can be quite full. 
   
• Colors: Selkirk Rex cats come in all coat colors and patterns. 
   
• Body: They have a large, dense body, similar to a British Shorthair. 
   
• Face: They have a sweet, rounded face with big eyes and rounded ears. 

Temperament and personality

• Affectionate: They are known for being affectionate and people-oriented.
• Sociable: They are generally sociable and get along well with other cats and cat-friendly dogs.
• Patient: The breed is patient and tolerant, making them a good fit for families.
• Adaptable: They adapt well to various living situations. 

Health and care

• Grooming:

  The curly coat requires regular combing with a wide-toothed comb to prevent mats, but over-brushing should be avoided as it can loosen the curls. Regular baths can also help. 

   
• Health concerns:

  While generally a healthy breed, they can be prone to certain conditions inherited from their outcross breeds, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and polycystic kidney disease (PKD). 

   
• Ear care:

  The curly fur can lead to increased ear wax, so it's important to inspect and clean the ears regularly. 

   

Interesting facts

• Origin:

  The breed originated from a rescue kitten with a rare genetic mutation for curly fur found in Montana in 1987. 

   
• Dominant gene:

  The gene for the curly coat is dominant, unlike in other rex breeds where it is recessive. 

   
• Kitten coat development:

  Kittens are born with a very curly coat that may straighten out around 16 weeks of age before the curls return and become more pronounced by the time they are two years old.