Cat · Large Breed
Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex is a sturdy, medium-to-large cat known for its plush, curly coat and relaxed, affectionate personality. Often described as patient and easygoing, this breed tends to bond closely with people while still keeping a playful, curious side.
The Calculator
How old is your Selkirk Rex in human years?
At 1 year old
Your Selkirk Rex is approximately 15 in human years.
Field Notes
About the Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex is a relatively modern breed that began in the United States in the late 1980s after a curly-coated kitten was born in a rescue litter. That kitten became the foundation of the breed, which was developed with careful outcrossing to breeds such as Persian, British Shorthair, and Exotic Shorthair. Unlike some other rex breeds with fine, close-lying waves, the Selkirk Rex is known for a heavier body and a soft, dense coat with a distinctly tousled look.
In temperament, Selkirk Rex cats are usually gentle, social, and adaptable. They often enjoy being near their families, tolerate handling well, and tend to do well in calm homes as well as busier households with respectful children or other pets. Most are affectionate without being overly demanding, making them a good fit for owners who want a friendly but not constantly vocal companion.
Care centers on coat maintenance, weight control, and routine preventive health care. Their curly coat can mat if neglected, especially in longer-haired individuals, so gentle combing and regular checks behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail are important. Because some lines may inherit conditions seen in related breeds, routine veterinary exams, dental care, and screening from responsible breeders are especially valuable.
Exercise needs are moderate, and these cats usually benefit from daily interactive play rather than nonstop activity. Wand toys, climbing trees, puzzle feeders, and short play sessions help prevent boredom and excess weight gain. They are often content indoor cats as long as they have enrichment, scratching areas, and regular social interaction.
Temperament
Exercise Needs
moderate
Health Watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
- Hip dysplasia
- Obesity
- Dental disease
Grooming
The Selkirk Rex needs gentle regular combing to prevent tangles and matting, with frequency depending on whether the coat is shorthaired or longhaired.
Growth Curve
Selkirk Rex weight chart
Typical weight progression from young to adult. The tinted band marks the healthy adult range — 3–7 kg.
Nutrition, Staged
Selkirk Rex Feeding Guide
Stage-based portions tuned to breed energy requirements. Use as a starting point — your veterinarian tailors the final numbers.
Formative years
Young
Follow breed-specific puppy feeding guidelines
Peak years
Adult
Follow breed-specific adult feeding guidelines
Mature years
Senior
Follow breed-specific senior feeding guidelines
Questions, Answered
On the Selkirk Rex
Yes, Selkirk Rex cats are generally known for their calm, affectionate, and tolerant nature. They often do well with children, other cats, and cat-friendly dogs when introductions are gradual and respectful.
No, Selkirk Rex cats are not truly hypoallergenic. Their curly coat may trap some loose hair, but they still produce allergens in skin oils and saliva, so allergic individuals can still react.
They need more grooming than many people expect because the dense curls can tangle or mat, especially in longhaired cats. Gentle combing once or twice weekly is often enough for short coats, while longer coats may need more frequent maintenance.
They are often healthy cats overall, but some bloodlines can be prone to inherited conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, and hip dysplasia. Choosing a breeder who performs appropriate health screening and keeping up with routine veterinary care are important.
This breed is usually moderately active rather than extremely energetic. Daily play, climbing opportunities, and food puzzles help maintain a healthy weight and provide enough mental and physical stimulation.
Adjacent Breeds
