Selkirk Rex: guía de pelo corto, largo y variantes

The Selkirk Rex is a delightful and distinctive breed, known for its curly, plush coat and affectionate personality. Unlike most Rex breeds, which tend to have very sparse, fine coats, the Selkirk Rex has a full, dense coat that curls in loose, random ringlets. This gives the breed a soft, fluffy, teddy bear-like appearance that makes it immediately appealing. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Selkirk Rex.

Selkirk Rex Appearance

The Selkirk Rex is a medium to large cat with a rounded, broad head, full cheeks, and large, round eyes. The body is well-muscled and substantial, giving the breed a sturdy, cobby build. The coat is the breed’s most distinctive feature: it consists of three layers (undercoat, middle coat, and outer coat), all of which curl, producing a plush, luxurious texture. The curls are loose and random rather than tight and uniform, and the coat can be short or long.

The Selkirk Rex is found in virtually all colours and patterns. The coat quality and degree of curl can vary between individuals, and some cats may have a straighter coat that still has a softly wavy texture.

Selkirk Rex Temperament

The Selkirk Rex is known for being calm, patient, and affectionate. They enjoy human company and are typically good with children and other pets. They are sociable cats that like to be involved in household activity, but they are not as demanding or vocal as some other breeds. Their temperament has been compared to that of the British Shorthair (one of the foundation breeds) — easygoing, tolerant, and gentle.

Selkirk Rexes are playful and curious, and they enjoy interactive toys and games. They form close bonds with their owners but are generally adaptable and do not tend to be anxious when left alone for reasonable periods.

Selkirk Rex Grooming

The Selkirk Rex’s curly coat requires gentle, careful grooming to maintain its texture without causing frizz. A wide-toothed comb or a gentle finger-comb is recommended rather than a slicker brush, which can over-straighten the curls. Grooming frequency depends on coat length: longhaired individuals generally need more frequent attention than shorthaired ones. The coat can become slightly greasy and may benefit from occasional bathing.

Selkirk Rex Lifespan and Health

The typical Selkirk Rex lifespan is between 14 and 15 years. As with all breeds derived in part from the British Shorthair or Persian, there is a risk of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in some lines. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is also a consideration. Responsible breeders carry out relevant health testing and are transparent about the health status of their breeding cats.

How Much Does a Selkirk Rex Cost?

Selkirk Rex kittens from reputable, health-tested breeders in the UK typically cost between £600 and £1,500. The breed is not especially common, and finding a reputable breeder may require some research. Always seek a breeder registered with a recognised body such as the GCCF or TICA, and ask about health testing before committing to a purchase.