MyCatBreedsThe Selkirk Rex originated in the USA in 1987. A host of cats have been used to develop this cat breed – Persians, British Shorthairs, Himalayans, American Shorthairs, Exotic Shorthairs, and others.
There was a litter of kittens and the odd one out, one with an unusual coat – was placed with the breeder, Jeri Newman, who bred the cat with a black Persian.
Three Selkirk Rex kittens were born as well as three straight-haired kittens. The cat has been developed with either long- or short coats. The Selkirk Rex cat breed is recognized by various cat associations such as the International Cat Association, the American Cat Fanciers Association in the 1990s as well as the Cat Fanciers Association in 2000.
The Selkirk Rex is a medium- to large-sized cat that will weigh between 3 to 6kg. He is a well-built cat of which you get a short- and long coat variety. The coat is available in all colors. The coat has a soft, woolly look to it with some curls.
With the long-haired variety, the cat has a well-plumed tail. One drawback perhaps is that the cat is a fairly heavy shedder, and perhaps wouldn’t be a good choice for those with allergies.
This is a lively, playful, energetic cat with a friendly temperament. Cat experts will tell you that it is the Persian and British Shorthair ancestors that have given him his placid, lovable nature. He is, however, more active than those cat breeds and loves to play.
Tolerant and affectionate, the Selkirk isn't a lap cat. Because he has a sociable nature, he dislikes being left alone for long periods of time.
The Selkirk Rex fits in well with households where there are well-behaved children and other pets. He is such a loving cat and loves to be in the company of his human companions. He isn’t demanding and likes to talk to you in a quiet voice.
When you welcome a Selkirk Rex cat into your home, you’ll have a loving friend and companion.
They love to bask in the attention they get as they’re quite unusual with their wavy to curly coats. People are always wanting to touch it.
The Selkirk Rex cat is an active, playful cat and has a whole lot of love to offer you.
The Selkirk Rex cat, if looked after well and given excellent food can live to be 15, 16, or 17 years of age. Some of these cats can suffer from hair loss. Remember, that every cat will require vaccinations and de-worming.
Chronic kidney failure usually develops over a number of months. Chronic kidney failure in cats is a progressive illness but if you get your cat to the vet it can be managed. The vet will want a sample of your cat's urine and possibly a blood test.
Your Selkirk Rex will need to have his fur brushed. You don’t want to brush him too hard every week as this can cause the curls to frizz. Rather use a spray bottle with some cat conditioner and lightly spray the curls and use your fingers to ‘comb’ his hair.
Provide your cat with well-balanced meals. Your Selkirk Rex is a carnivore and you have to ensure that his food is made up of meat. The best commercially manufactured cat foods know how to correctly balance your cat’s food so that it gets the perfect blend of vitamins and minerals. Always choose a good brand of cat food that will meet your cat's nutritional needs. If you’re unsure, you can always ask your vet for suggestions about good quality food that will help towards ensuring good health for your cat.
The cheaper, unknown brands may not have the best ingredients to keep your cat happy and healthy. Remember to read the labels as a growing kitten will require different food to a senior cat.
Provide your Selkirk Rex with a litter box, scratching post, and a climbing tree.
Your kitten will need to be vaccinated to protect him from some of the life-threatening diseases cats can get. Most of the vets these days recommend a combined vaccine, starting at about 8 weeks of age. These vaccines will protect your kitten from Feline Leukaemia Virus, Feline Parovirus, and cat flu.