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Selkirk Rex
United States
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–7 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- patient
- affectionate
- easy-going
- playful
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex began in Montana in the late 1980s with a curly-coated kitten from a rescue litter. The curl proved to be dominant, and breeders crossed the line with Persians, British and Exotic Shorthairs. It is a sturdy, rounded cat with a loosely curled, plush coat in long or short forms.
Temperament
Patient, affectionate and easy-going. Selkirks enjoy company and handling, and tend to be calm with children and other pets.
Play & activity
Moderately active. Playful but not overly busy; a few daily play sessions suit it.
Grooming
Comb gently a couple of times a week to avoid flattening curls. Occasional bathing can help define the coat.
Care & wellbeing
Polycystic kidney disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy have been reported due to Persian and British ancestry. The curly coat can shed and isn't a reliable choice for people with allergies.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 5 kg adult- Water
- 200 ml–300 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 280 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 20–30 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Selkirk Rex
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Selkirk Rex arose in the United States from a curly-coated kitten and was bred with Persians and British Shorthairs. It has a plush, curly coat in short or long form. It is patient, calm and affectionate.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- PKD DNA test
- Heart scans for HCM
Not every Selkirk Rex is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Selkirk Rex right for you?
Could suit
- Homes that can offer daily play sessions
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Common questions
How big does a Selkirk Rex get?
Adult Selkirk Rexs typically weigh around 3–7 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Selkirk Rexs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Selkirk Rex?
Expect to spend around 20–30 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Selkirk Rex need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Selkirk Rexs affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Selkirk Rexs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Selkirk Rexs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Selkirk Rex live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Selkirk Rexs have?
The breed can be prone to polycystic kidney disease (pkd), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (hcm). Not every Selkirk Rex is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.