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
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.