Selkirk Rex

Unlike the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex, which have been around for longer, the Selkirk Rex is a fairly new breed whose journey began in the late 1980s in Montana. While raising Persian Cats, a dedicated cat breeder named Jeri Newman developed a passion for feline genetics and sought out unusual cats. She encountered a litter of kittens that included one with a curly coat like a soft, plush toy. 

Intrigued by this unique find, Newman began a program to understand the genetics behind the curly coat. Through careful breeding, she discovered that the gene responsible for the curls was dominant, meaning it could be passed on to future generations. Newman named the breed after her stepfather, making the Selkirk Rex the only cat breed named after an individual.

Gentle giants, Selkirk Rex cats thrive on human companionship and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. If you're looking for a friendly cat who loves to cuddle and doesn't demand constant attention, a Selkirk Rex might be the perfect match.

While they appreciate playtime and the opportunity to climb around, Selkirk Rexes are generally quite content with human company. Interactive toys like "things on strings" can be fun, but they often prefer the simple pleasure of cuddling on your lap. It's important to note that Selkirk Rexes don't tolerate long periods of alone time, so regular companionship is essential to their well-being.

Selkirk Rex cats are undeniably indoor cats. Their friendly and trusting nature, combined with their sweet appearance, makes them prime targets for theft. While they enjoy spending time outdoors, it's crucial to provide a safe and secure environment, such as a fully enclosed area or fenced-in yard. Climbing platforms and branches within an enclosed space can provide additional enrichment and stimulation without risking their safety.

Selkirk Rex cats need regular grooming to keep their fluffy coat looking good. Both long and short-haired varieties benefit from brushing often. Longer-haired Selkirks, however, may need even more frequent, in-depth grooming sessions.

While they might not be as eager to learn tricks as some other breeds, Selkirk Rex cats are as smart as they are cute and can be taught basic commands with patience and positive reinforcement. 

While they appreciate attention, Selkirk Rex cats are not super demanding and can adapt well to different lifestyles. They are happiest in a quiet home environment where they can bond with their humans. Their friendly and gentle nature makes them excellent family companions.

The cost of a Selkirk Rex from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.