History
The origination of the Selkirk Rex is one of pure chance. Upon the birth of a litter of kittens taking refuge in an animal shelter in the late nineteen eighties, a shelter worker observed that one of the kittens had a distinctively, poodle like coat.

Falling in love with this curly haired marvel, she then bred that kitten with a Persian, resulting in three curly haired and three normal hairedkittens. The breeder then decided to give them the name Selkirk Rex which was from the name of the mountains that were near her home.

Since the three curly haired kittens contained the Rex gene, it is dominant. This means that any out-crossing with other varieties of cat breeds still produces the Selkirk Rex. This breed of cat is available in several different colors and patterns and also comes in a longhaired version and a shorthaired version.

Appearance and Grooming
The physical characteristics of a Selkirk Rex includes a body that is muscular and slightly square, a rounded head, round eyes and pointed ears that are set wide apart and a tail that tapers gracefully at the tip. Another unique physical trait this breed displays are its brilliant gold colored eyes. However, there are on occasion, blue eyed cats as well.

With the Selkirk being bred back to the Persian breed for purposes of creating a healthier and sturdier breed, it only stands to reason that this beautiful, curly haired marvel would require some extensive grooming. Both the shorthair and the longhair require a brushing routine of several times a week in order to prevent tangles and gnarls.

This breed also has a tendency to shed quite frequently, so grooming helps alleviate loose hairs that may have ended up on your furniture or in your cat’s stomach. It is important to note, that you must be extremely careful when grooming your Selkirk Rex as too much combing can result in the straightening of the beautiful plush curls. In addition, this breed has very fragile and delicate whiskers that can break rather easily, so take special care when grooming around that area.

Health Problems
The Selkirk Rex is a very healthy breed and does not seem to be prone to the more common Rex hereditary problems. However, as with any longhaired cat breed, this breed does have a tendency to succumb to hairballs. A consultation with your veterinarian will help you decide which specially formulated hairball prevention food is best for you and your cat.

Behavior and Characteristics
The Selkirk Rex is the perfect breed for anyone who spends a lot of time away from home. These cats are more than happy and willing to find ways to amuse themselves, but will definitely be ready and willing for affection and attention when their owners return home. The Selkirk Rex is also a perfect addition to family homes and homes with multiple cats. This breed has a laid back, relaxed attitude and is happy and content to indulge the imaginations of children and participate in dress up and tea party games.

Anyone who is thrilled with owning a unique looking cat who has a loving and tolerant personality, combined with a calm and relaxed attitude is sure to want to take a look at the plush and beautiful Selkirk Rex.

The Manx breed of cat has been around since before the seventeen hundreds and originated on the Isle of Man. When a cat lover hears the word “Cat”, they often envision a fluffily animal with a distinctively graceful tapering tail. However, what makes the Manx breed unique is that it is completely tailless.

Quite often, cat fanciers are able to come upon a variety of this breed called “Tailless, or Tailies.” While this variety holds the same characteristics as a Manx, it is highly affectionate and perfect as a family pet, however, the tailless Manx is the only breed recognized by cat associations for participation in the cat show ring.

Appearance
In addition to the uniqueness of having no tail, the Manx also displays another unusual physical characteristic. The Manx has back legs that are much longer than its front legs. When this unique creature is viewed walking, many comment that it resembles that of a bunny hop type motion. When this breed is in a sitting position, it holds its back legs bent sot that their backs remain in a fairly straight position.

Along with this odd physical trait, the Manx has a solidly built round body, which typically weighs in at a respectable eight to twelve pounds. With a wide and rounded head, the Manx also has very prominent cheeks, long ears, which are slightly rounded at the tip and gold or amber colored eyes. The Manx, in keeping with its distant descendant, the British Shorthair, is available in every color and pattern your heart could possibly desire.

Behavior and Characteristics
The Manx’s personality is one of a sweet-natured, fun-loving, playful cat who on occasion has his quiet unassuming moments. While this breed is happy to play with children, it also makes the perfect pet for anyone having a career that keeps them away from home for lengthy periods of time. Unlike other breeds, the Manx does not require the company of additional cats to keep it company.

Children often find the Manx to be a playful and endearing companion. Despite the unusual lengths of its legs, this breed of cat is able to leap higher than any other breed. Typically, an owner will discover that the Manx’s favorite perches include door frames, refrigerators and any other high obscure area they can get into. The Manx is also highly intelligent and has the ability to be taught tricks such as fetch, coming when his name is called along with many other simple and entertaining tricks.

It has often been said that the Manx has a lot of dog-like traits within him as he enjoys the game of burying his toys and searching for them later. This beautiful and unusual breed is also great for multi-unit living as it is for the most part a quiet cat. While the Manx can mewl, for the most part he chooses not too.

Health Problems and Grooming
Along with the many varieties of colors and patterns to choose from, this breed is also offered in long or short hair versions. While the shorthair’s coat is on the thick side, it still does not require an extensive amount of grooming. Typically, a once a week brushing with a comb or brush is sufficient in keeping his coat smooth and healthy. The longhair version has a silk like texture to his coat, but still only requires a good once a week grooming to keep his coat soft and shiny.

In addition to grooming, you should also implement a regular tooth brushing routine when your Manx is a kitten. All cats are prone to tartar build-up as well as tooth decay and dental diseases, so starting a regular routine when your Manx is a kitten will help ensure your cat’s dental health stays safe as he ages.

The Manx is the perfect choice for anyone who is looking for a fun-loving, playful and distinctly unique addition to their family and their home.