Pet Wiki

Selkirk Rex

Also called Selkirk

Recognised breedShort profile

From United States (Montana), from a curly-coated kitten found in a shelter litter; sources date her birth to 1986 or 1987.123

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male5.4 to 7.3 kg123
Weight, female4.1 to 5.4 kg123
Lifespan15 years2
Sizemedium

CFA gives males 12-15 lb (about 5.4-6.8 kg) with females somewhat smaller; GCCF gives 9-16 lb (about 4.1-7.3 kg) for the breed. Female range here is the lower part of the GCCF range.

laid-back, cuddly companion
patient with children and other pets
one-of-a-kind curly coat
123

Coat and looks how to spot one

curly coat, in shorthair and longhair

A solid, well-muscled cat with heavy bone, a round full-cheeked head and big round eyes. Its trademark is a coat of loose, random curls that grow in clumps rather than neat waves, with curly whiskers too. Shorthairs look plush and teddy-like, while longhairs can grow long ringlets.123

Coloursall colours and patterns, including pointed, bicolour, cinnamon, chocolate, silver and smokeany eye colour123

Personality what they are like

Relaxed, loving and happy to be handled, with a goofy side that comes out in sudden bursts of play. Selkirks like to be near their people, mix well with children and other animals, and tend to stay on the ground rather than climb to the highest shelf.123

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate. Enjoys daily games and toy chasing but is content to relax between sessions.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Care varies by coat. CFA says the curls need little more than a gentle finger fluff and occasional combing, and rarely tangle. GCCF advises that longhairs benefit from daily work with a wide-toothed comb, and some cats need an occasional bath if the coat gets oily. Avoid over-brushing, which can flatten the curls.123

Company who they like around

A people-oriented cat that enjoys company and usually accepts children and other household pets.12

The story where it all began

In Montana in the late 1980s, a rescued cat gave birth to a kitten with a permed-looking coat. Persian breeder Jeri Newman adopted her, named her Miss DePesto, and bred her to a black Persian; half the litter had curls, proving the gene was dominant. Crosses with Persians, Exotics and British Shorthairs built the breed, which was named after Newman's stepfather.123

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It is the only cat breed named after a real person, Jeri Newman's stepfather.1

  2. 2

    The foundation cat, Miss DePesto, was named after a curly-haired character in the TV series Moonlighting.3

  3. 3

    Unlike Cornish and Devon Rex curls, the Selkirk's curl comes from a dominant gene, so one curly parent can produce curly kittens.3

  4. 4

    The breed first reached the UK from Austria in 2002.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named after the Selkirk Mountains, and the 'Rex' refers to the curly coat, similar to other Rex breeds.4

Name ideas for your new friend

CurlyMooseWoollyJellybeanPuddingBiscuitMuffinSquishNoodleCocoFuzzyPatches

A day in the life told by a Selkirk Rex

I woke up on my favorite rug, stretched my curly paws, and yawned. My human laughed and gave me a scratch behind the ears. I rolled over for belly rubs, then followed them to the kitchen for a snack. After breakfast, I chased a toy mouse across the living room, skidding on the hardwood floor. I flopped down for a nap in a cardboard box. Later, I sat on the couch, watching the world through the window. When my human came home, I greeted them with a purr and a headbutt. A lazy, lovely day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

TICA
Recognised 19923
ACFA
Recognised 19983
CFA
Accepted for registration 1992; championship status 20001
GCCF
Preliminary recognition 2004; championship status June 20092

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Selkirk Rex. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Selkirk Rex tip

Choose VOHC-approved dental treats to help keep your Selkirk Rex's teeth clean between check-ups. Because this breed can be prone to weight gain, keep treats to a minimum and factor them into your cat's daily calorie allowance.

Source: petmd.com

Cat-Friendly Pancakes

A simple, no-bake treat that is high in protein and low in fat, making it a suitable occasional reward for cats who gain weight easily.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water, no salt added
  • 1/2 cup finely diced cooked chicken
  • 1/2 cup pure sweet potato puree (no added sweeteners)

How

  1. Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
  2. Break the tuna into small bits with a fork.
  3. Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
  4. Slowly stir in the sweet potato puree until the mixture binds together, being careful not to make it too watery.
  5. Shape the mixture into mini pancakes.
  6. Serve to your cat as an occasional treat.

How much: Give small amounts occasionally, as treats should not exceed 10-15% of daily calorie allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Tuna Biscuits for Cats

These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
  • Extra water as needed

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
  4. Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  6. Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
  8. Allow to cool completely before storing.

How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

Tuna Catnip Biscuits

A vet-approved recipe from PDSA that uses simple ingredients to create a tasty, crunchy treat your cat will love.

You need

  • 145g tuna chunks in spring water
  • 120g plain flour
  • 1 tablespoon dried catnip
  • 1 egg

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
  2. Drain the tuna and mix it with the flour, catnip and egg in a bowl until a dough forms.
  3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  4. Use a small cookie cutter to cut out biscuit shapes.
  5. Place the biscuits on a greased baking tray and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool completely before serving.

How much: One biscuit equals 10% of your cat's recommended daily calories. Reduce their main meal by 10% on treat days.

Recipe from PDSA

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Selkirk Rex, and at what times?

Feeding frequency and times vary with your cat's age, size and routine, so follow the food label and your vet's advice. Most adult cats do well with two meals a day at consistent times. Kittens need more frequent meals, so ask your vet for a schedule.

What should a Selkirk Rex eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a balanced commercial cat food that suits their life stage, and check the label for amounts. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, alcohol, yeast dough, and xylitol, as listed by ASPCA. Always ask your vet about any specific diet concerns.5

Does a Selkirk Rex need baths?

Baths are only needed occasionally if the coat gets oily or dirty, as some cats may require them. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests gentle care with a soft glove or cloth for brushing. Over-bathing can strip natural oils, so keep it rare and ask your vet if unsure.2 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Selkirk Rex need brushing?

Brushing depends on coat length: shorthairs need a gentle finger fluff or occasional combing, while longhairs benefit from daily wide-toothed combing. Avoid over-brushing as it can flatten the curls, and Furry Diary suggests brushing every 14 days with a soft glove.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Selkirk Rex's claws, and how often?

Trim claws gently every three weeks, using a cat nail clipper and avoiding the quick. Start with one or two claws per session to keep it stress-free, as ASPCA advises. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you the technique.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much play does a Selkirk Rex need?

Selkirk Rex enjoys daily play sessions with toys and chasing, but is content to relax between games. Furry Diary suggests daily play to keep them happy and engaged. Their goofy bursts of energy make playtime fun for both of you.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Selkirk Rex's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth daily if possible, as Furry Diary suggests every two days as a starting point, using a vet-approved toothpaste. Check ears weekly for dirt or wax and clean gently with a soft cloth, but avoid deep cleaning. For any concerns, ask your vet. Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Selkirk Rex live?

A Selkirk Rex typically lives around 15 years, which is a good lifespan for a cat. With proper care, regular vet checks and a loving home, they can enjoy a long, happy life. Senior years usually start around age 11, so adjust care then.2 Pet Wiki plan

Is a Selkirk Rex good with children and other pets?

Yes, Selkirk Rex is relaxed, loving and mixes well with children and other animals, making them a great family pet. They enjoy being near people and are happy to be handled. Their gentle nature helps them adapt to a busy household.12

Can a Selkirk Rex be left alone?

Selkirk Rex is people-oriented and prefers company, so they may not do well alone for long periods. They can cope with short absences if they have toys and a comfortable space, but daily interaction is important. If you're away often, consider a pet sitter or another pet.12

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. CFA: Selkirk Rex cfa.orgused for history, recognition, body, weight, coat, colours, temperament, grooming
  2. GCCF: Selkirk Rex gccfcats.orgused for history, UK recognition, weight, lifespan, grooming, temperament
  3. Wikipedia: Selkirk Rex en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, recognition dates, genetics, fun facts
  4. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.