Selkirk Rex
The Good
- Uniquely gorgeous curly coat that's a real conversation starter
- Incredibly patient and gentle with children and other pets
- Adaptable to various living situations from apartments to houses
- Moderate exercise needs perfect for busy Australian lifestyles
The Real
- Regular grooming required to prevent matting in those lovely curls
- Prone to certain inherited health conditions from their diverse ancestry
- Can feel lonely if left alone for extended periods
- May be challenging to find from reputable Australian breeders
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Selkirk Rex is truly one of a kind - imagine a teddy bear that purrs and you're halfway there! These remarkable cats are the largest of all Rex breeds, sporting dense, soft curls that can be either short or long. What sets them apart from other curly-coated breeds like the Cornish Rex is their sturdy, muscular build and those wonderfully round, expressive faces.
Originally developed in Montana from a chance encounter with a curly-coated shelter kitten, the Selkirk Rex combines the best traits from several beloved breeds. They've inherited the Persian's loving nature, the British Shorthair's patience, and the Exotic Shorthair's playful bursts - creating a cat that's as charming as they are beautiful.
These cats are natural cuddlers who genuinely enjoy human companionship. They're not demanding attention-seekers, but rather gentle souls who appreciate being included in family life. Whether you're working from your Brisbane home office or relaxing on a Melbourne winter evening, a Selkirk Rex will happily settle nearby, content to simply be in your presence.
Their laid-back temperament makes them excellent choices for Australian families dealing with the chaos of school holidays or the stress of footy finals season - they'll take it all in stride with their characteristic calm demeanour.
History
The Selkirk Rex has one of the most charming origin stories in the cat world, beginning with pure serendipity in late 1980s Montana. A Persian breeder named Jeri Newman discovered an unusual kitten at a local animal shelter - the only curly-coated member of an otherwise ordinary litter born to a feral mother. This special kitten, affectionately named Miss DePesto (or "Pest"), would become the foundation of an entirely new breed.
Newman recognised the genetic potential in Pest's unique coat and curly whiskers. She adopted the kitten and later bred her to a black Persian named PhotoFinish of Deekay. The results were remarkable - three of the six resulting kittens inherited the wavy coat, confirming that the curly gene was dominant, unlike other Rex breeds.
To establish genetic diversity and refine the breed's characteristics, Newman strategically incorporated British Shorthairs, Exotic Shorthairs, and American Shorthairs into her breeding program. This careful selection process gave the Selkirk Rex their wonderfully balanced temperament - combining the Persian's affectionate nature with the British Shorthair's calm disposition.
The breed gained official recognition in the 1990s, and interestingly, it's the only cat breed named after a person - Newman chose to honour the Selkirk Mountains near her Montana home. Today, Australian cat fanciers can appreciate this remarkable breed that literally started with one special shelter cat.
Traits & Characteristics
Selkirk Rex characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Selkirk Rex cats generally enjoy robust health with lifespans reaching 14-20 years, but their diverse genetic background does predispose them to certain inherited conditions. The most significant concern is polycystic kidney disease (PKD), inherited from their Persian and British Shorthair ancestry. This condition causes cysts to develop in the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure if left unmanaged. Fortunately, genetic testing can identify carriers, so always ask Australian breeders for PKD testing certificates before purchasing.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is another consideration, causing heart muscle thickening that can progress to heart failure. Watch for symptoms like shortness of breath, lethargy, or loss of appetite, and ensure your Brisbane or Sydney vet includes cardiac screening in regular check-ups. Some Selkirk Rex cats may also inherit progressive retinal atrophy from their Persian lineage, leading to gradual vision loss.
Due to their stocky build and British Shorthair ancestry, some Selkirk Rex lines may be prone to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn't form correctly, leading to arthritis. While not as common as in some dog breeds, it's a possibility. Reputable breeders may screen for this, and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to reduce stress on the joints.
Australian Climate Considerations: During scorching Adelaide summers reaching 40°C+, ensure your Selkirk Rex has access to air conditioning and plenty of fresh water. Their dense, curly coat can trap heat, so consider cooling mats for particularly hot days. In cooler Canberra winters, these cats appreciate warm, draft-free sleeping spots and may benefit from heated beds during those frosty 5°C mornings.
For humid coastal areas like the Gold Coast, maintain good ventilation to prevent skin issues under their dense coat. Regular vet check-ups every six months help catch any health concerns early, and pet insurance is particularly worthwhile given their predisposition to certain genetic conditions.
As obligate carnivores, Selkirk Rex cats require high-quality, protein-rich diets to maintain their robust build and luxurious coat. Look for Australian pet food brands displaying AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statements, ensuring the food meets veterinary nutritional standards. Given their larger frame - they can reach up to 7 kilograms - portion control becomes especially important to prevent obesity-related health issues.
Kittens should receive kitten-specific or "all life stages" formulations until around 12 months, while adults do well on maintenance diets. As your cat approaches their senior years around 7-8, discuss transitioning to senior-specific nutrition with your local vet. The key is matching food to your cat's current life stage and activity level.
Free-feeding isn't recommended for Selkirk Rex cats due to their tendency toward weight gain. Instead, provide measured meals two or three times daily. A typical adult might need 200-300 grams of quality wet food daily, but consult your Australian vet for personalised portions based on your cat's weight, age, and activity level.
During Perth's sweltering summers, many cats prefer wet food over dry kibble - it provides additional hydration while being easier to digest in hot weather. Consider puzzle feeders to slow down enthusiastic eaters and provide mental stimulation during those long, air-conditioned afternoons. Dental health treats approved by veterinary oral health councils can help maintain their teeth between professional cleanings, particularly important given their predisposition to certain health conditions.
The Selkirk Rex's signature curly coat is their crowning glory, but it requires thoughtful maintenance to stay healthy and beautiful. Unlike their Persian relatives, they're not high-maintenance, but those gorgeous curls need regular attention to prevent matting and preserve their distinctive texture.
Brush your Selkirk Rex twice weekly using a wide-toothed comb rather than traditional brushes, which can disrupt their curl pattern and create frizz. Focus on areas prone to matting - behind the ears, under the arms, and around the chest. During Melbourne's humid summer months, you might need to increase grooming frequency as moisture can encourage tangles.
These cats benefit from baths every few weeks, particularly if they have oily skin - a trait some inherit from their Persian ancestry. Use lightweight shampoos that won't weigh down their curls, and avoid conditioners which can loosen the curl pattern. After bathing, towel dry gently and let them air-dry completely - hair dryers will turn those beautiful curls into frizzy disappointment!
The unique structure of their coat means loose hairs get trapped rather than falling onto your furniture, which is great news for your black work clothes but means regular grooming is essential to prevent matting.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Available in both short and long varieties, with long-haired versions showing more dramatic curling
- Coat Colours: Any genetically possible colour including black, white, cream, chocolate, tabby, and pointed varieties
- Coat Patterns: Tabby, shaded, tortoiseshell, chinchilla, smoke, calico, bicolor, tricolor, pointed, mink, and sepia
- Hypoallergenic: No - they produce normal levels of allergens despite their unique coat texture
Selkirk Rex cats are intelligent and responsive to positive reinforcement, making them surprisingly trainable for various behaviours and tricks. Their patient, people-oriented nature means they actually enjoy interactive training sessions, especially when treats and praise are involved. Start with basic commands like "sit" or teaching them to come when called - perfect for those times when you need to bring them inside during Cairns' sudden tropical downpours.
Mental stimulation is crucial for preventing boredom, particularly during Darwin's wet season when outdoor exploration might be limited. Puzzle feeders work wonderfully for these food-motivated cats, slowing down eager eaters while engaging their problem-solving skills. Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty - feather wands, laser pointers (always end with a physical catch), and small balls they can bat around your Hobart living room.
Their moderate energy levels mean they appreciate short, intense play sessions rather than marathon activities. A good 15-minute interactive play session twice daily will satisfy most Selkirk Rex cats, perfect for busy professionals working from their Sydney home offices.
Socialisation remains important throughout their lives. While naturally friendly, regular positive experiences with visitors, delivery drivers, and new situations will keep them confident and adaptable. Their patient temperament makes them excellent candidates for therapy cat work, and many enjoy car rides to visit elderly relatives or accompany families on weekend getaways to the Blue Mountains.
Create vertical territory with cat trees and shelving - they enjoy observing household activities from elevated perches while still being part of the family action.
Who is an ideal owner?
The Selkirk Rex thrives with owners who appreciate a gentle, affectionate companion without demanding high-maintenance care routines. They're perfect for Australian families who want a cat that genuinely enjoys being part of daily life - whether that's working from your kitchen table during lockdowns or hosting weekend barbecues on the Gold Coast.
These cats suit households where someone is home regularly, making them ideal for retirees, work-from-home professionals, or families with school-aged children. They don't cope well with being alone for 10+ hours daily, so FIFO workers or those with extensive travel commitments might want to consider other breeds. However, they're excellent for shift workers who are home during different parts of the day.
First-time cat owners often find Selkirk Rex cats forgiving and easy-going, while experienced cat people appreciate their balanced temperament. They adapt beautifully to apartment living in inner-city Melbourne or Brisbane, provided they have adequate enrichment and aren't left alone excessively.
Families with young children will love their patient, gentle nature - these cats rarely scratch or bite, even when handled by enthusiastic toddlers. They're equally content in multi-pet households, getting along famously with other cats and even friendly dogs.
The ideal Selkirk Rex owner enjoys regular, gentle grooming sessions and doesn't mind investing in quality nutrition and preventive veterinary care. They're suited to people who want an affectionate lap cat that's also independent enough to entertain themselves when needed.
Interesting facts about the Selkirk Rex
Interesting Fact
The Selkirk Rex is the only cat breed named after a person - breeder Jeri Newman chose to honour the Selkirk Mountains near her Montana home
Interesting Fact
Even their whiskers are curly, giving them a permanently whimsical expression
Interesting Fact
They're the largest of all Rex breeds, with some males reaching impressive 7+ kilogram weights
Interesting Fact
In a litter of Selkirk Rex kittens, some will have curly coats while others have straight hair - the straight-haired siblings make wonderful pets but can't compete in cat shows
FAQ
Expect to pay between $1,200-$2,500 AUD from reputable Australian breeders, with show-quality cats commanding higher prices. Always verify health testing certificates and meet the breeding cats before purchasing.
They're moderate shedders, but their unique coat traps loose hair rather than dropping it on furniture. Regular twice-weekly brushing significantly reduces the amount of hair around your home.
Absolutely! Their calm temperament and moderate exercise needs make them excellent apartment cats. Just ensure they have adequate enrichment and aren't left alone for extended periods.
They're exceptional with kids due to their patient, gentle nature. They rarely scratch or bite, even when handled by enthusiastic children, making them ideal family pets.
Brush twice weekly with a wide-toothed comb, and bathe every few weeks if they have oily skin. Avoid over-brushing as it can loosen their beautiful curls.
With proper care, yes. Ensure air conditioning access during extreme heat, provide cooling mats, and maintain fresh water. Their coat can trap heat, so monitor for overheating signs during 35°C+ days.
Definitely! Their forgiving, laid-back nature makes them excellent choices for newcomers to cat ownership, though they do require regular grooming commitment.
They prefer company and can feel lonely if left alone for 8+ hours daily. They're better suited to households where someone is home regularly or works flexible hours.