Selkirk Rex Cat Breed 2025: The Cuddly Curly-Coat “Teddy Bear” Companion 🧸💕

Hi, I’m Dr Duncan Houston BVSc with Ask A Vet! Join me in this 2025 breed guide to the Selkirk Rex—our plush, curly-coated “teddy bear” feline companion. Known for its calm, family-friendly demeanor, this breed offers love and softness in one. Let’s explore its history, appearance, care necessities, health insights, and whether it fits your home. 🏡

Contents

• Breed Overview & Quick Facts
• Origin & Development
• Look & Distinctive Traits
• Temperament & Behavior
• Care, Grooming & Enrichment
• Health & Genetic Considerations
• Is a Selkirk Rex Right for You?
• Ask A Vet, Woopf & Purrz Support

🐾 1. Breed Overview & Quick Facts

Origin: Montana, USA – discovered 1987 from a curly-coated shelter kitten :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Size: Medium to large; up to ~16 lb (7 kg) :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Coat: Curly, woolly fur—short or long variety—in any color/pattern :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Eye Color: Any shade—from amber to green :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Lifespan: ~14–20 years :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Temperament: Patient, affectionate, calm yet playful—ideal family cat :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

📜 2. Origin & Development

The Selkirk Rex began in 1987 when a curly-coated kitten named DePesto was found in a Montana shelter. Bred with a Persian, several curly-coated kittens confirmed the dominant trait. Breeders later used Persians, British and Exotic Shorthairs for refinement and genetic health :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.

Recognized by TICA in 1992, ACFA in 1998, and CFA in 2000, it’s one of four official “rex” breeds—uniquely named after the breeder’s stepfather, Selkirk :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

🎯 3. Look & Distinctive Traits

• Coat:** Plush curly fur feels teddy-bear soft—short or long—comes in any pattern or color :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Body: Heavy-boned, muscular build with strong legs and broad chest :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
• Head & Face: Round head, full cheeks, square muzzle, large round eyes, medium ears often with curly furnishings :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
• Tail: Medium length with lush curls on longhair variants :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.

💬 4. Temperament & Behavior

• Mellow & Affectionate: Love laps and close human contact—“purring teddy bears” :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
• Family-Friendly: Patient with children, dogs, and other cats—sociable and warm :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
• Playful Yet Calm: Enjoy gentle play and puzzles but aren't hyperactive :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
• Intelligent: Smart and curious—appreciate toys, towers, and interactive games :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
• Low Drama: Quiet and understated—not overly vocal :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.

🛁 5. Care, Grooming & Enrichment

Grooming

• Brush 1–2x weekly—prevents mats, retains curls :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
• Occasional light bathing if coat becomes greasy—curly fur traps oils :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}.
• Trim nails, clean ears, brush teeth as part of your routine.

Enrichment

• Provide puzzle feeders, cat trees, scratching areas—keeps them active mentally :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}.
• Play sessions twice daily to stimulate and bond.
• They enjoy human company—companion pets or interactive days are beneficial.

Nutrition

• High‑protein, age‑appropriate diet; wet food helps urinary health.
• Control portions and treat limits—obesity is a risk :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}.
• Monitor weight and adjust diet as needed.

🩺 6. Health & Genetic Considerations

• Generally healthy and robust—no breed-specific issues :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}.
• Inherited conditions: PKD (from Persian lineage), HCM (British Shorthair lineage), hip dysplasia :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}.
• Coat care concerns: Homozygous curly cats can have greasy coats—occasional bathing helps :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}.
• Ear wax buildup: Curly whiskers may trap debris—regular cleaning needed :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}.
• Obesity: Risk without enrichment—careful feeding required :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}.

Vet care checklist:

• Annual exams including heart (echo), kidney (PKD test), joints.
• Dental care, vaccinations, parasite control.
• Monitor coat texture and cleanliness.

✅ 7. Is a Selkirk Rex Right for You?

👍 Pros:

• Snuggly, mellow, great with families and pets.
• Unique curly “teddy bear” appearance.
• Moderate care—cozy without high grooming demands.

⚠️ Cons:

• Potential inherited health conditions—requires screenings.
• Needs enrichment—can gain weight if idle.
• May not suit those seeking a low-touch or hypoallergenic pet.

Ideal For:

• Families, multi-pet households, and affectionate owners.
• Those who want a calm, loyal companion with character.
• Homes ready to provide moderate grooming and playtime.

Less Suited For:

• Busy households that leave pets alone long-term.
• Small apartments without engagement opportunities.
• Allergy sufferers—cozy coat is not hypoallergenic.

🔧 8. Ask A Vet, Woopf & Purrz Support

• Telehealth screenings for heart, kidney, and joint health.
• Nutrition plans via Woopf feeder to manage weight & support urinary health.
• Behavior coaching—interactive toy ideas, cuddle routines.
• Grooming tips for coat and ear care via video tutorials.
• Provide mental enrichment & calming gear from Purrz products.

Download the Ask A Vet app today for personalized care plans, reminders, and expert support! 📲

Final Thoughts 💕

The Selkirk Rex is a genuine “teddy bear” cat—curly, affectionate, playful yet calm, with a personality that warms any home. With thoughtful care and health screening, this breed offers years of loving companionship and cozy cuddles.

Thanks for reading! I’m Dr Duncan Houston BVSc—let Ask A Vet help you welcome a Selkirk Rex into your life and care for them with confidence. 🩺