Routine Care: Selkirk Rexes need daily play sessions that stimulate their natural desires to hunt and explore. Keep their minds and bodies active or they may develop behavior issues. Cats are meticulously clean and demand a clean litter box. Be sure to provide at least one box for each cat and scoop waste daily. It is important that your cat drinks adequate amounts of water. If she won't drink water from her bowl try adding ice cubes or a flowing fountain.
Grooming: Selkirk Rexes need only regular, gentle brushing to keep their hair curly.
Dental: Selkirk Rexes have generally good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week!
Ear Care: Check her ears weekly for wax, debris, or signs of infection and clean when necessary. Don't worry - your veterinarian can show you how!
Selkirk Rexes are social, affectionate, and laid back, making them a sweet and loving family companion.
Positive Traits:
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Good with children and other pets
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Requires very little grooming
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Affectionate, easygoing, and sweet
Negative Traits:
Whether you are considering adding a new Selkirk Rex to your family or you already have one as a companion, it is important for you to know about the genetically linked diseases known to occur more often in this breed. Of course not every Selkirk Rex will have these problems,but research shows your pal is more at risk than other breeds. By exploring the health concerns specific to the Selkirk Rex you will become a knowledgeable and confident pet parent. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian about breed risks every time you visit and educate yourself on the most important signs to watch for at home. She’s counting on you to be her health expert.
Some health issues a Selkirk Rex could encounter:
Heart Disease
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Feline Idiopathic Cystitis
Polycystic Kidney Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Hip Dysplasia
Mast Cell Tumors
Nasopharyngeal Polyps
Neonatal Isoerythrolysis (NI)/Hemolytic Icterus
Gingivitis
Demodicosis
Separation Anxiety Syndrome
Lysosomal Storage Disease
Dystocia
The first Selkirk Rex, Miss DePesto, was rescued from a shelter in Montana in 1987. Due to their initial breeding with Persians and British Shorthairs, they come in both longhair and shorthair varieties. The shorthair coat is soft and plush, lending them the nickname of a Cat in Sheep's Clothing. They are a sturdy breed, and their patience makes them great companions for households with children and other pets.
Consult with a veterinarian if your Selkirk Rex shows signs of the following:
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Weakness or exercise intolerance; rapid, labored, or open-mouth breathing; sudden-onset of weakness
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Noisy or labored breathing
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Abnormal behaviors, particularly worse a few hours after meals
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Lameness, abnormal hind limb gait ("bunny hopping")
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Small lumps or nodules, which may look red or swollen
