by Barbara George
Tellington Ttouch Behaviourist
The Selkirk Rex is a relatively new breed. The first curly kitten was found in an animal shelter in 1987. She was bred to a Persian cat and produced 3 curly kittens which are the original cats of this breed. The ‘Rex’ in the name refers to the curly coat similar to the Cornish and Devon Rex but this is a different cat altogether.
These are medium to large cats with a strong and muscular body and round head. The coat is thick and lush and can be either short or long haired and any colour or combination of colours. There is a ruff around the neck which is more distinct in the longhair cat. Kittens are born curly then go through a straight-fur phase before showing their final adult coat. Their whiskers are always curly. They have a quiet and gentle voice to match their personality.
The Selkirk is a gentle, loving, patient and tolerant cat, from his Persian and British Shorthair ancestors. He is not generally a lap cat but does enjoy interaction and games. He is a social cat that prefers the company of others to being on his own and will make friends with other cats, dogs, children or adults. They do not do well in isolation and may exhibit behaviour issues or wander to find the required company and stimulation.
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