Selkirk Rex

The Selkirk Rex has a very precise and relatively recent origin: it was born on 4 July 1987 in Montana, USA, when a litter of domestic cats produced a kitten with an unusually curly coat. This cat, named Miss DePesto of Noface, was adopted by Persian cat breeder Jeri Newman, who immediately recognised the potential of this new spontaneous genetic mutation.

Unlike the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex, the Selkirk mutation is dominantly inherited, meaning that just one mutated gene is sufficient for the curly coat to be expressed. Jeri Newman crossed Miss DePesto with a Persian and the result confirmed that the mutation was heritable and dominant. The breed was developed in its early generations using Persians, British Shorthairs and Exotic Shorthairs to provide robustness and expand the genetic base.

The name of the breed honours the adoptive father of Jeri Newman (Selkirk) and the Selkirk Mountains of Idaho. The Selkirk Rex was recognised by the TICA in 1992 and by the CFA in 2000. It is the only feline breed whose name honours a person rather than a geographical location.

The Selkirk Rex is a medium to large-sized cat with a robust and muscular constitution, much more solid than the Cornish Rex or Devon Rex. The head is round and broad with full cheeks and a well-defined muzzle. The eyes are large, round and very expressive. Its most striking feature is its curly and fluffy coat, which can be short or long depending on the variety, giving it a three-dimensional plush appearance.

The Selkirk Rex exists in two coat varieties: the short-haired version has more compact and defined curls, while the long-haired version has broader and more voluminous curls forming soft tufts. A charming peculiarity of the breed are its curly whiskers, irregularly curved, which add a touch of character to its expression.

In terms of temperament, the Selkirk Rex is known for its sweet, patient and tolerant character. It is a cat that enjoys human company without being excessively demanding. It adapts well to different types of household and lives without problems with children and other animals. It is neither as active as the Bengal nor as vocal as the Siamese: it is the perfect cat for those seeking a calm companion with a touch of originality.

Coat care for the Selkirk Rex requires gentle brushing two or three times a week with a wide-toothed comb to keep the curls defined and remove dead hair. Excessive brushing or the use of unsuitable brushes should be avoided, as these can over-fluff the coat and break the curl structure. A monthly bath with a gentle shampoo helps keep the coat clean and curly.

The Selkirk Rex is a moderately active cat: it enjoys playing and moments of interaction with its family, but also appreciates long periods of quiet rest. Interactive toys, scratching posts and intelligence games are valued elements. It is a cat that tolerates periods of solitude well when accustomed to it from a young age, but prefers company.

The diet should be high quality, balanced in proteins and fats, with controlled caloric intake to avoid overweight. Access to fresh water is essential, especially if the diet is based on dry food. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to detect cardiac and renal diseases in time.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most frequent cardiac disease in the Selkirk Rex, as in many feline breeds. It involves thickening of the heart muscle and can be asymptomatic for years. It is recommended to perform regular echocardiographies from two years of age to detect any changes early. Responsible breeders carry out cardiac tests on their breeding animals.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), inherited from crosses with Persians and Exotics, is another condition that can affect the Selkirk Rex. It involves the development of cysts in the kidneys that over time can compromise their function. A genetic test is available that allows carriers of the responsible gene to be identified. Regular blood and urine tests are fundamental for preventive monitoring.

Give your Selkirk Rex the best nutrition with OnlyFresh, formulated with high-quality ingredients that support its cardiac and renal health, keeping it curly, healthy and happy at every stage of life.