Among the medium to large sized cats, the Selkirk Rex breed is certainly among the most prized for their very special coat. This feline has soft, wavy fur that makes it stand out from other cat breeds. Due to the characteristic appearance and texture of the fur, it is also called the "sheep-haired cat".
The Selkirk Rex is a medium to large sized cat with a robust bone structure that gives it a surprising weight and an impression of strength. It has a stocky body, a short muzzle and a round head. The fur of this breed can be both short and long. The three types of coat texture – straight, spiky and lying – are all present within the breed and are always wavy, making them incredibly soft to the touch. The degree of waviness of the fur can vary according to age, sex, climate and season. In long-haired Selkirk Rex cats, the curls on the tail have a feathery appearance, being further away from the base of the tail, and the longer strands in the collar area frame the face nicely. This breed can have an impressive variety of colors and patterns.
Subject
Characteristics of the Selkirk Rex breed
In short, the characteristics of this cat breed are as follows:
- Origin: United States, 1987
- Size: Medium to high
- Weight: Males 6-7 kg, females 4-5 kg
- Fur: Wavy, soft, can be short or long
- colors: Wide variety including solid, bicolor, tabby, tortoiseshellThe eyes: Large, round, various colors
- ear: Medium size, rounded
- Personality: Affectionate, friendly, playful
- Adaptability: Suitable for apartments and large houses
- Fur care: Brushing two to three times a week
- Health: Regular visits to the vet, prone to dental conditions and cardiomyopathy
- Exercise: Requires regular mental and physical stimulation
History and Origin of the Race
The Selkirk Rex cat breed takes its name from the Selkirk Mountains in Wyoming, where in 1987 the first specimen with this distinctive trait was discovered in an animal shelter. This chick had remarkably wavy fur, which attracted the attention of breeders. Through an experimental breeding program it was found that the wavy coat mutation was a dominant trait, so that half of the pups inherited the trait. Unlike other Rex breeds, where the trait is recessive, the Selkirk Rex quickly became known for this trait. Popular especially in the USA and Canada, the breed has been nicknamed the "Sheep Cat" due to its rich, thick and wavy fur.
Over time, the breed has been refined through crossbreeding with other breeds, such as the British Shorthair and the Exotic Shorthair.
The physical characteristics of the Selkirk Rex cat
As mentioned before, the Selkirk Rex is a medium to large cat with a robust build and heavy weight due to the strong bone structure inherited from the British Shorthair and Exotic Shorthair crosses. Its body is compact and stocky, and its round head is complemented by a short, square muzzle, a feature influenced by crossbreeding with Persian cats. Large, expressive eyes contribute to the breed's friendly and adorable appearance. A unique feature of the Selkirk Rex is that its wavy fur is found even on the hairs inside the ears.
The fur is soft, dense and wavy, with a special texture that earned it the nickname "sheep cat". It can be short or long, and the curls are more pronounced on the tail, in the collar area and on the belly. Selkirk Rex cats can come in any color and pattern, giving them an amazing variety of appearances. The degree of curliness of the fur can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, climate or season, but it always remains a distinctive feature of this fascinating breed.
Behavior and personality
Selkirk Rex cats are very sociable, affectionate and reliable, making them ideal partners for families who want a very special cat. They get along great with children, other pets and even strangers due to their friendly and patient nature. They are cats that love to be the center of attention and can spend hours lying on their owner's lap, begging for affection. This close bond with family makes them excellent cats for households where there is a lot of human interaction.
Despite being intelligent and curious cats, Selkirk Rex are not hyperactive, having a balanced and relaxed temperament. They love to explore their surroundings and participate in moderate physical activity, but their gentle and calm demeanor makes them perfect for families looking for a quiet cat. Their ability to combine an active nature with a laid-back personality makes them versatile and easy-to-love pets.
Selkirk Rex Care and Requirements
Grooming a Selkirk Rex cat requires constant attention to maintain the health and beauty of the coat, as well as general hygiene. Their matted coat requires regular but not excessive brushing to prevent shedding and tangling. It is recommended to use a brush specially designed for curly hair and to opt for a shampoo dedicated to wavy fur, if a bath is required. In addition, nails should be trimmed regularly, as nails that are too long can catch on furniture or carpets, causing discomfort to the cat and damage to the home.
Special attention should be paid to the ears and eyes. Hair inside the ears can irritate the skin and promote excessive wax build-up, so regular checking and cleaning with dedicated products is essential. Also, being a related breed to the Persian, the Selkirk Rex can tear excessively, which can cause spots around the eyes. Daily cleaning of the fur around the eyes helps prevent these spots. These cats also love to be in control of their environment and like to have access to high spaces, such as furniture or a tree to climb, that provide them with physical and mental stimulation.
So, in summary, this breed needs your attention, both for the emotional side and for the maintenance.
Food
Cats of this breed do not require a space type of food. They must be fed a balanced and high-quality diet adapted to their age, weight and activity level. A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals is important for maintaining the health and vitality of the Selkirk Rex cat.
Breed specific health issues
In general, cats of this breed are healthy and do not suffer from specific ailments or diseases. However, like any other breed, the Selkirk Rex is prone to certain genetic health problems. These include polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and hip dysplasia.
The best breeders, however, try to reduce the risk of a cat of this breed developing these problems through proper breeding practices. Therefore, before buying a Selkirk Rex cat, make sure that it has resulted from a healthy cross and that the breed is reliable. Do not consider breeders who are not willing to give you a written health guarantee.
It is also highly recommended to take your pet to the vet for regular check-ups.
How long do Selkirk Rex cats live?
If the cat is the result of a healthy cross and is taken to the vet frequently for check-ups, it can live happily for 12 – 15 years. In some cases, this limit is exceeded, even reaching 18-19 years.
How much does a Selkirk Rex cat cost?
The price for a Selkirk Rex cat starts at $1,500 for straight-haired cats and goes up to $4,500-$5,000 for long-haired, curly-haired cats. Of course, prices can be much higher if you want to buy this cat from a region where availability is low.
Also, the price may vary depending on the breeder. Reputable breeders who have pedigree cats and who participate in shows will generally command higher prices. When buying a cat, make sure you choose a responsible breeder who takes care of his animals in good conditions and who can provide you with all the necessary documents (pedigree, health card).
Other recommended cat breeds:
- Ragdoll cat - Top 5 characteristics of this breed.
- Norwegian Forest Cat - Top 5 characteristics of the breed.
Conclusion
Bottom line, race Selkirk Rex it is a perfect choice for those who want an affectionate, sociable cat with a calm personality. Its unique, wavy coat and pleasant appearance make it an ideal companion for families, being easy to care for if given the necessary attention. Although it may be prone to certain genetic conditions, a responsible breeder and proper care can ensure a long and healthy life for this pet. If you want a playful yet relaxed cat that will bring lots of affection to your home, the Selkirk Rex could be the perfect choice.
