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 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.
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