Selkirk Rex cats typically live between 14 and 20 years. Regular checkups, vaccinations, and preventive healthcare can help identify and address potential health issues early on.

Selkirk Rex cats stop growing and reach their full size around two years old. Like most kittens, Selkirk Rexes experience rapid growth during their kittenhood, typically up to six months old. Growth slows down considerably after the first year, but they continue to fill out for a bit.

The Selkirk Rex originates from Montana in the United States. In 1987, a kitten with a plush, curly coat was born to an otherwise normal litter of Persian cats and breeder Jeri Newman decided to develop it into a new breed. This breed is named after Newman’s stepfather, Selkirk, making it the first cat breed named after a person. There are two types: long-haired and short-haired.

Yes, Selkirk Rexes are known to meow. They don’t shy away from telling you their thoughts, but not every detail: they’re not a vocal nuisance.

Yes, Selkirk Rex cats are very friendly. They are quite affectionate with their pet parents and even love playing with children who know how to properly handle them.

Yes, Selkirk Rex cats have a good chance of getting along with other cats due to their temperament. Selkirk Rexes are incredibly easy-going and, as such, get along well with most other animals.

Yes, Selkirk Rex cats generally do well with dog companions. Their docility makes them the perfect house companion for a frisky dog. Early socialization with dogs, ideally during kittenhood, helps them feel comfortable around canine companions.

No, Selkirk Rexes are rather decile and not recognized for being the most intense hunters. However, their playful side and natural instincts may still lead them to stalk, swat, and pounce on anything that catches their eye.

Yes, Selkirk Rex cats are good indoor cats. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that all cats be kept indoors for their own safety.

No, Selkirk Rex cats are not overly active. This is a mellow breed, so while they are somewhat playful, they mostly love to lounge around or on their favorite humans.

Yes, Selkirk Rexes are good lap-cats. They love their people, and they love their people’s laps, too. They are not typically shy of visitors and are truly fond of engaging with all humans and other animals.

Yes, Selkirk Rex cats shed moderately, so while they won’t leave your house fur-free, they also won’t coat your furniture in a constant layer. Shedding might increase slightly during peak shedding seasons, such as summer and winter.

Yes, you need to groom Selkirk Rex cats. The Selkirk Rex has a dense, fluffy, soft coat that can feel like lambswool. Prevent mats and tangles in your Selkirk Rex’s coat by brushing or combing them twice weekly. In addition to brushing, all cats should have their claws trimmed every two weeks or so. Cats are also prone to periodontal disease and should have their teeth brushed two to three times a week.

No, Selkirk Rex cats are not hypoallergenic. Cat allergies stem from Fel d 1, a protein found in cat saliva, urine, and dander. All cats produce Fel d 1, regardless of breed. Some people with allergies may find they react less severely to certain cats, but it’s unpredictable and not a guarantee. If you’re set on a Selkirk Rex but have allergies, consider spending time with one before bringing it home to gauge your reaction.

Yes, Selkirk Rexes are mostly healthy but can have some issues that plague them, including:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): HCM is an abnormal thickening of the left ventricle of the heart that leads to improper blood flow. It is the most common cause of heart disease in cats and can result in sudden death.

• Hip dysplasia: Selkirk Rex can suffer from hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when the hip joint grows abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from adequately meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can be done to fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis.

• Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): PKD is an inherited condition that causes cysts in the kidneys, leads to enlarged kidneys, and may result in renal failure. There is a genetic test available to pinpoint this disease.