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Cats

Selkirk Rex

Selkirk Rex

Classification and scientific name: Felis catus

Sources checked:

A full curly coat and a rounded body; coat texture differs among Rex breeds

The Selkirk Rex developed from a curly-coated domestic cat found in Montana in the United States. Despite similar names, its curls do not share the same origin as those of the Devon and Cornish Rex.

Origins and distribution
Developed from a curly-coat trait in Montana, United States

  • Selkirk Rex
  • Domestic cat
  • Assess each individual’s temperament
Reference photograph: Selkirk Rex

Reference photograph

Reference photograph of Selkirk Rex. Examine this individual’s color and form alongside the identification descriptions in the text.

Source: Ciaccia at English Wikipedia · Original material · CC BY 3.0

1. Classification, origins and habitat

The Selkirk Rex developed from a curly-coated domestic cat found in Montana in the United States. Despite similar names, its curls do not share the same origin as those of the Devon and Cornish Rex. Distinguish the domestic cats used in breeding from modern registration standards. The word Rex alone does not mean that coat care and genetic traits are identical across all breeds. Coat forms can differ within a family, so check the photograph together with registration categories.

2. Appearance and identification

A rounded head, sturdy body and a full coat with loose curls are typical, with both short-haired and long-haired varieties. Whiskers may also look curved. Curling and coat volume can vary between young and adult cats and with the season. The impression differs from the Cornish Rex’s short, fine coat. Comparing it to a sheep does not mean the coat has wool’s structure or needs the same care. Consider coat volume alongside skin and actual body shape.

3. Behavior and way of life

Interaction with people and calm play are described as tendencies, but individuals do not enjoy brushing and touch to the same degree. Give the cat a break if its body tenses or it withdraws during handling. A doll-like coat may be an appearance feature, but does not justify carrying the cat around like an object. Let it choose play, exploration and time to rest alone, while observing individual growing-up experiences and current relationships.

4. Observation, conservation and care

Check tangles and skin when caring for the curls, without applying arbitrary products or human perm treatments to preserve their shape. Gentle care should suit coat length and actual condition. Provide stable resting places and scratching posts that support a large body, along with safe climbing supports. Do not copy sparse-haired breeds’ care simply because they also have Rex in their names. Check coat length and the whole body in photographs to align them with the text.

Evidence and references