Selkirk Rex Shorthair
Large
4.1–7.3 kg
10–15 years
Recognizing organizations
Independent registries that list this breed. Tap a badge to learn more.
These statuses reflect each registry’s recording and show systems. They are not a health, quality, or superiority score.
Breed Traits
Moderate energy
High compatibility
Moderate grooming need
Easy to train
Fits apartments well
Half-day is hard
Manageable with guidance
Generally gets along well with other pets
The Selkirk Rex Shorthair is the short-coated form of the Selkirk Rex, a modern breed founded from a naturally curly kitten born in Montana in the late 1980s. Persian breeder Jeri Newman named the foundation female Miss DePesto of NoFace and bred her to a black Persian. Curly kittens in the resulting litter demonstrated that the new coat trait followed dominant inheritance.
This is a medium-to-large, substantial cat with strong boning, firm musculature, a slightly rectangular body, a broad rounded head, full cheeks, a clearly defined muzzle, and large round eyes. The overall impression should be sturdy and balanced rather than slender or extremely compact.
The Shorthair has a dense, plush coat that stands away from the body and forms loose, irregular curls rather than a uniform wave. Curls may be especially noticeable around the neck, belly, flanks, and tail. The whiskers and eyebrows are also commonly curled or broken, and the coat occurs in many genetically possible colours and patterns.
Are Selkirk Rex Shorthairs good family cats?
Selkirk Rex Shorthairs are generally affectionate, patient, and comfortable in family life. Well-socialized individuals often live successfully with respectful children when handling is gentle and the cat has quiet places to retreat.
Do Selkirk Rex Shorthairs get along with other pets?
Many adapt well to compatible cats and calm cat-friendly dogs after gradual introductions. Separate food, water, litter, resting, and hiding resources help prevent conflict, especially when another animal is more energetic or intrusive.
Can a Selkirk Rex Shorthair live in an apartment?
The variety can adapt well to apartment living when provided with daily play, scratching surfaces, sturdy climbing furniture, observation points, and regular companionship. Secure windows and balconies and appropriate weight control remain important.
Can Selkirk Rex Shorthairs be left alone during the day?
Many adults can manage ordinary short absences when their routine is predictable. Frequent prolonged isolation is not ideal for this sociable cat, and toys or food puzzles do not fully replace dependable human or compatible animal companionship.
How much grooming does a Selkirk Rex Shorthair need?
Gentle combing once or twice a week is sufficient for many cats. Dense coats, seasonal shedding, or excess oiliness may require additional care, but excessive brushing can separate the natural curls and make the coat appear frizzy.
What is the difference between a Selkirk Rex Shorthair and a Selkirk Rex Longhair?
Both share the same substantial body type, dominant curl trait, and general temperament tendencies. The Shorthair has a dense plush coat with compact curls, while the Longhair has a semi-long, more tousled coat with a fuller ruff and plumed tail.
Is the Selkirk Rex Shorthair a separate breed or a coat variety?
Classification depends on the registry. BondPals maintains a separate Atlas entry, TICA uses Selkirk Rex for the shorthaired form, FIFe uses the SRS code, and CFA and GCCF recognise both coat lengths within the wider Selkirk Rex breed.
What health screening should a Selkirk Rex Shorthair breeder provide?
Documented PKD1 testing is particularly relevant because of Persian-derived ancestry. Buyers should also ask for family health and longevity records and any veterinarian-guided heart, kidney, or mobility assessments used in the breeding line; a KRT71 coat result does not guarantee overall health.
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