Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
🐈 Persian
🐈 Selkirk Rex
Group
Long Hair
Long Hair
Origin
Persia (modern Iran)
United States
Weight
3–5 kg
4–7 kg
Height
25–38 cm
20–25 cm
Lifespan
12–17 years
14–17 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK
🐈 Persian
Temperament
Quiet, gentle, dignified, low-energy. Persians prefer calm households, attach to one or two people, and are generally undemonstrative.
Exercise
Very low. A few short play sessions a day. They're mostly sedentary indoor cats.
Grooming
Daily brushing is non-negotiable — long fine hair mats within days. Bathe every 4–6 weeks. Wipe facial folds and tear stains daily.
