Selkirk Rex

• ExerciseLow

  Gentle play sessions and a warm windowsill keep them content.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing a few times a week keeps the coat mat-free.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes; cat trees and window perches help.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment10–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Kidney disease · Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy · Hip dysplasia

The Selkirk Rex is the 'cat in sheep's clothing' — a plush, randomly curled coat over a sturdy, huggable body and one of the most laid-back temperaments in catdom. Patient, tolerant and affectionate, it takes children, other pets and household bustle in its stride, and it is content to be a mellow, cuddly companion rather than a demanding livewire, which makes it an easy fit for many homes. The curly coat needs a careful touch: brush gently and not too often, because over-grooming pulls the curl straight, and this is a real shedding cat that benefits from a weekly comb-through to manage loose hair. Bathing should be occasional and followed by air-drying to let the curls reform. Because the breed was developed using Persian, British Shorthair and Exotic outcrosses, it inherits some of their risks — polycystic kidney disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in particular, plus hip dysplasia — so buy from a breeder who screens for these. Keep the cat at a healthy weight, maintain good dental care and routine kidney and heart monitoring as it ages.

• How much play does a Selkirk Rex need?

  Low. Gentle play sessions and a warm windowsill keep them content.

• How much grooming does a Selkirk Rex need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing a few times a week keeps the coat mat-free.

• Is a Selkirk Rex suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes; cat trees and window perches help.

• Is a Selkirk Rex a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Selkirk Rex live?

  10–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Selkirk Rex?

  Keep an eye out for Kidney disease, Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Hip dysplasia. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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