Characteristics

  • Playfulness
  • Activity Level
  • Friendliness to Other Pets
  • Friendliness to Children
  • Grooming Requirements
  • Vocality
  • Need for attention
  • Affection towards owners
  • Docility
  • Intelligence
  • Independence
  • Hardiness

History and Origins
The Selkirk Rex is distinguished by its unique curly coat, a result of a natural mutation first observed in a rescue cat named Miss DePesto in Montana, 1987. This kitten’s distinct curls caught the eye of a Persian breeder, Jeri Newman, who adopted her and later bred her to a Persian male, producing a litter with three curly-haired kittens. This confirmed the gene for the curly coat was dominant. Named after the nearby Selkirk Mountains, the Selkirk Rex quickly gained popularity for its distinctive appearance and endearing personality, becoming officially recognized by major cat registries in the 1990s.

Personality
Selkirk Rex cats are known for their patient, loving nature. Often referred to as "cat in sheep's clothing," they combine the playful and curious traits of their Rex genetics with a laid-back, affectionate disposition. Selkirks form strong bonds with their families and are known for their sociable nature, making them excellent companions. They adapt well to various household environments, including those with children and other pets, thanks to their gentle demeanor and tolerant personality.

Nutrition and Feeding
A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining the health of a Selkirk Rex. High-quality cat food that provides all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals is essential for supporting their overall wellbeing. Given their moderate activity level, monitoring portion sizes to avoid obesity is important. It's advisable to establish a regular feeding schedule and provide fresh water at all times. Consultation with a vet can help determine the best diet plan based on the cat’s age, weight, and health status.

Grooming and Care
The Selkirk Rex's curly coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its texture. Weekly brushing with a wide-toothed comb or fingers is recommended to gently detangle the fur without damaging the curls. Unlike other Rex breeds, the Selkirk’s coat can vary from plush to loosely curled, affecting the grooming needs. Bathing should be done sparingly to avoid drying out their skin. Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are also crucial for their overall health.

Specific Needs
While the Selkirk Rex is generally a healthy breed, they can inherit some health issues common to their Persian and British Shorthair ancestors, such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help manage these risks. Their dense coat also makes them more susceptible to overheating in warm environments, so ensuring they have a cool, comfortable place to rest is important.

Training
The intelligent and adaptable nature of the Selkirk Rex makes them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods like treats and praise. Early socialization and consistent training help foster good behaviors and enhance their sociability. They can learn to use a scratching post, perform tricks, and even adapt to leash training for safe outdoor adventures.

Need to Know
Prospective Selkirk Rex owners should be prepared for a cat that craves attention and affection. Understanding their grooming needs, dietary requirements, and potential health issues is key to providing a nurturing home. Their calm, loving nature makes them suitable for families and individuals alike, offering companionship and joy. With proper care, the Selkirk Rex can be a delightful addition to any household, bringing with them a unique blend of charm and warmth.

Available Selkirk Rex Kittens

At this moment, we're experiencing a temporary pause in availability for the specific breed you're seeking. However, your journey to finding the perfect purebred kitty doesn't end here. Explore our diverse collection of other enchanting breeds ready to find a loving home. If your heart is set on a particular breed, we welcome you to submit a request, and we'll diligently work to match you with your ideal companion. Additionally, if you're a breeder looking to introduce a new furry friend into the world, consider joining our network by submitting a breeder application. Together, let's connect hearts and homes with the joy of a purebred kitten.

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Selkirk Rex Cat  Adoption

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Selkirk Rex Cat  Health and Nutrition

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Purrfect matches

Pawsome reviews

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Caitlin H.

5

Purebred Kitties made the adoption process so easy. I never felt like I was in the dark at any point, which I found so helpful. Alona was genuine, kind, and answered all of my questions in a timely manor. I really appreciate everyone's help in bringing our new baby home, he's loved so much already!

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Elise H.

5

I am so impressed! Instant clarification, communication, compassion. Video calls offered to assure that this company is not a scam. Caring consultants connect breeder with buyers making the middle person a fast facilitator of the transaction and steps.

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Caitlin H.

5

Purebredkitties is a class outfit. They made the transaction easy and worry free. Adoption specialst Kim A worked tirelessly to address issues on my behalf. Even responded to me in an e- mail at 3 am her time. :o) This interaction has been an exceptionally rewarding experience

img_5

Karen P.

5

Communication is great. We were able to FaceTime with our baby pay by credit card, and when we want to pick her up, she was exactly as we expected. Only in our house two days and she’s already doing wonderfully with the family! It would be nice if for the cost the pedigree papers were included as many breeders do this the additional cost for these was hundreds of dollars and since she was arriving spayed we didn’t feel the need to pay the additional money. As my title says it’s expensive, but it was worth it the quality And size of this kitten is amazing.

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Caitlin H.

5

The entire adoption process between myself and this wonderful team was amazing. I am being a loving new pet mom to a beautiful kitten that I named Princess. I intend to adopt another one in the future with Maria again. I am over the moon happy. Thank you guys so much

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Micke L.

5

Sphynx mom of 4. I have 4 Sphynx kittys from Maria at purebredkitties.com love them all - she's amazing to work with

Victoria H.

5

The entire process to get our fluffy bundle of joy was stellar. Maria is super sweet and was so helpful in answering any and all of our questions. I love how the health of the cat is taken seriously throughout the process, ours just came in with some minor sniffles (but were pretty sure that's from traveling through the airport and it was quickly/easily cured). On top of all that, the video call we had to meet our little guy before we bought him was a great way to get an small sneak peak at his personality and reinforce that we were making the right choice. I'm recommending Purebred Kitties to any of my friends looking to get their own Maine Coon.

Victoria H.

5

Just got my second Sphynx from purebred kitties, as my first experience was perfect and without issue. My second experience was just as good as the first. I love both of my cats to death, they have the best personalities, both are healthy, and absolutely adorable.

Caitlin H.

5

Purebred Kitties made the adoption process so easy. I never felt like I was in the dark at any point, which I found so helpful. Alona was genuine, kind, and answered all of my questions in a timely manor. I really appreciate everyone's help in bringing our new baby home, he's loved so much already!

Elise H.

5

I am so impressed! Instant clarification, communication, compassion. Video calls offered to assure that this company is not a scam. Caring consultants connect breeder with buyers making the middle person a fast facilitator of the transaction and steps.

Michael R.

5

Purebredkitties is a class outfit. They made the transaction easy and worry free. Adoption specialst Kim A worked tirelessly to address issues on my behalf. Even responded to me in an e- mail at 3 am her time. :o) This interaction has been an exceptionally rewarding experience

Karen P.

5

Communication is great. We were able to FaceTime with our baby pay by credit card, and when we want to pick her up, she was exactly as we expected. Only in our house two days and she’s already doing wonderfully with the family! It would be nice if for the cost the pedigree papers were included as many breeders do this the additional cost for these was hundreds of dollars and since she was arriving spayed we didn’t feel the need to pay the additional money. As my title says it’s expensive, but it was worth it the quality And size of this kitten is amazing.

Pamela L.

5

The entire adoption process between myself and this wonderful team was amazing. I am being a loving new pet mom to a beautiful kitten that I named Princess. I intend to adopt another one in the future with Maria again. I am over the moon happy. Thank you guys so much

Micke L.

5

Sphynx mom of 4. I have 4 Sphynx kittys from Maria at purebredkitties.com love them all - she's amazing to work with

Victoria H.

5

The entire process to get our fluffy bundle of joy was stellar. Maria is super sweet and was so helpful in answering any and all of our questions. I love how the health of the cat is taken seriously throughout the process, ours just came in with some minor sniffles (but were pretty sure that's from traveling through the airport and it was quickly/easily cured). On top of all that, the video call we had to meet our little guy before we bought him was a great way to get an small sneak peak at his personality and reinforce that we were making the right choice. I'm recommending Purebred Kitties to any of my friends looking to get their own Maine Coon.

Alec B.

5

Just got my second Sphynx from purebred kitties, as my first experience was perfect and without issue. My second experience was just as good as the first. I love both of my cats to death, they have the best personalities, both are healthy, and absolutely adorable.

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