Selkirk Rex Longhair
The Selkirk Rex Longhair is a domestic cat breed instantly recognizable for its plush, curly coat and gentle, sociable temperament.
Origin Story
Originating in Montana, USA, in 1987, the Selkirk Rex Longhair traces its roots to a shelter-born kitten named Miss DePesto, whose unusual curly fur inspired Persian breeder Jeri Newman to establish the breed. By crossing Miss DePesto with Persians, British Shorthairs, and Exotic Shorthairs, Newman created a new lineage with a dominant curly coat gene. The breed takes its name from the Selkirk Mountains, and the longhaired variety developed alongside its shorthair counterpart, gaining recognition as a distinct division within major cat registries.
Classification
The Selkirk Rex Longhair belongs to the species Felis catus and is classified as a rex-type domestic cat breed, distinguished by its curly coat. It is recognized as a unique breed by several major cat registries, with the longhair variety considered either a division or a subtype depending on the authority.
Appearance or Form
This breed is celebrated for its voluminous, wavy fur that ranges from loose waves to tight ringlets, giving it a soft, tousled, and distinctly plush texture. The Selkirk Rex Longhair features a sturdy, muscular build, a broad head, and substantial bone structure. Its curly whiskers and eyebrows add to its "teddy bear" appeal, while the dense coat invites gentle touch and regular grooming.
Behavior or Usage
Known for its gentle, patient, and affectionate demeanor, the Selkirk Rex Longhair thrives as a companion animal and show cat. Its sociable nature makes it well-suited for families and multi-pet households, and it interacts warmly with both adults and children. The breed is valued for its unique appearance and loving personality, with no utilitarian or culinary uses.
Merchandise & Prints
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Selkirk Rex Longhair Poster
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Selkirk Rex Longhair Mug
Stoneware mug, dishwasher safe
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Selkirk Rex Longhair Shirt
Soft cotton tee, unisex sizes
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Taxon-Specific Insights
🌍Cultural Significance
The Selkirk Rex Longhair has gained popularity in cat shows and among enthusiasts for its distinctive "teddy bear" look and charming disposition. While not deeply rooted in folklore or myth, its striking appearance and gentle nature have made it a favorite in modern cat culture, often featured in breed showcases and admired for its novelty among rex-type cats.
📌Notable Facts
- The breed's curly coat is the result of a naturally occurring autosomal dominant gene.
- Selkirk Rex Longhair cats have curly whiskers and eyebrows, a rare trait among felines.
- Unlike other rex breeds, the Selkirk Rex has a substantial bone structure and a plush, dense coat.
- The breed is sometimes called the "teddy bear cat" for its cuddly appearance.
- Some lines may inherit polycystic kidney disease (PKD) from Persian ancestors, making health screening important.
📜Breed Recognition
- The International Cat Association (TICA)
- Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA)
- Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe)
Visual Variations
Composition & Context
Taxon-Specific Insights
😺Temperament And Personality
Selkirk Rex Longhair cats are renowned for their gentle, patient, and affectionate nature. They are sociable, enjoy companionship, and adapt well to families and homes with multiple pets. Their easygoing personality makes them excellent companions for children and adults alike.
❤️Health And Lifespan
Generally robust and healthy, the Selkirk Rex Longhair may inherit polycystic kidney disease (PKD) from its Persian lineage. Regular health screenings are recommended. Lifespan is typical for domestic cats, though exact averages are not specified; with proper care, they are expected to live well into their teens.
🧼Grooming And Care
The breed's long, curly coat requires consistent grooming to prevent matting and maintain its plush texture. Weekly brushing is advised, paying special attention to the undercoat and curly whiskers. Routine health checks and screenings for PKD are recommended, and regular nail trimming and dental care will help keep them in optimal condition.
🎨Common Colors And Patterns
Selkirk Rex Longhair cats can be found in all recognized colors and patterns, including solid, tabby, bicolor, and pointed. This diversity adds to their visual appeal and makes each cat truly unique.
🌟Famous Examples
While the breed is well-known in cat show circles and admired for its distinctive look, there are no widely recognized individual Selkirk Rex Longhair cats in popular media or history. The original foundation cat, Miss DePesto, remains notable as the breed’s ancestor.
🌍Regional Variants
Recognition and naming conventions for the Selkirk Rex Longhair vary by registry. Some organizations treat the longhair and shorthair varieties as divisions within a single breed, while others distinguish them more formally. Regional terminology may include "Selkirk Rex LH" or "Longhaired Selkirk Rex."
🔖Synonyms And Nicknames
- Longhaired Selkirk Rex
- Selkirk Rex LH
- Teddy bear cat