Selkirk Rex
Curly-coated "sheep cat" with a calm, family-friendly temperament.
Photo: Chen EdisoN / Pexels
The Selkirk Rex emerged from a single curly-coated kitten in a Montana shelter in 1987. Unlike the Devon and Cornish Rex, the Selkirk has plush, longer curls — leading to its "cat in sheep's clothing" nickname. Calm and sociable.
Temperament
Patient, easy-going, cuddly. Excellent with families.
Exercise needs
Moderate.
Grooming
Curly double coat. Brush 2–3× weekly to prevent matting; avoid over-brushing (loosens the curl).
Common health issues
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Polycystic kidney disease (Persian heritage).
👍 Best for
Families with children, first-time owners, multi-pet homes.
👎 Not best for
Allergy-sensitive owners — fur is curly but not particularly hypoallergenic.
Buying guides for Selkirk Rex owners
Recommended for Selkirk Rex owners
Buying guides for Selkirk Rex owners
Compare Selkirk Rex with…
Similar breeds
Devon Rex
Pixie-faced curly-coated cat. Elf-like, playful, often well-tolerated by allergy sufferers.
Cornish Rex
Slender, ultra-curly cat. Athletic, sociable and warm to the touch.
British Shorthair
Calm, dignified, plush-coated. The classic "British Blue" cat.
Persian
Glamorous longhair. High grooming demands and brachycephalic health concerns.
