The Selkirk Rex is an interesting cat breed, easily defined by their uniquely curly coats. While they are one of the only four curly haired cat breeds to date, this cat breed is much different from the other curly haired Rex breeds that you may know–such as the Devon Rex and the Cornish Rex. Check out our 5 things you didn’t know about the Selkirk Rex:
1. Naturally Occurring Curls
These cats developed their curls through a natural genetic mutation. In 1987, a Calico shelter cat gave birth to a litter of kittens, and one of these cats was born with curly hair all over its entire body. This kitten then became the foundation of the breed, named the Selkirk Rex. Fun fact: Not all Selkirk’s are born with curly hair, some change to curly as the cat matures through adolescence.
2. A Curly Persian?
This special kitty born at the shelter back in the late 80’s was then crossed with a Persian, through a specialty Persian breeder out of Wyoming. The breeder thought of the name Selkirk, in honor of her stepfather. Fun fact: This is the only cat breed that is ever to have been named after a person!
3. Curly From Head to Toe
Everything about this cat is curly, even its whiskers! But much different than the other curly cat breeds, this breed has all of the 3 layers to its coat. The Selkirk also comes in a vast variety of colors and markings–as well as both long and short hair varieties.
4. A Cat That Needs a Bath?!
Some Selkirk’s are reported to get greasy easily, so it’s recommended to keep up with routine baths to keep them looking fresh. Obviously, brushing is going to be a requirement of this breed as well. Fun fact: These cats are known by many as the “cat in sheep’s clothing.”
5. Not Your Typical Lap Cat Despite the Lineage
While Persians may be known by all for loving to cozy up right in your lap, the Selkirk Rex is not so big on the idea. A Selkirk is generally more active, yet still affectionate, and does well in a home with children as well as other pets. If you’re looking for a curly cat that’s sweet and loves to play, but you don’t mind the required grooming, then the Selkirk Rex may be just the cat breed for you!