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Selkirk Rex
Selkirk Rex
Origin
United States
Size
Large Breed
Ideal Space
Apartment
Ideal Weather
18º-24ºC
Life Expectancy
14-15 years
Cost of buying
₹ 60,000 - ₹ 1,50,000
Top 5 Traits
Playful
Friendly
Laid-back
Gentle
Affectionate
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 2,800 - ₹ 4,200
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 18 Aug 2025
Meet the Selkirk Rex: The Cat in Curls
If you’ve ever wanted a cat that looks like it just stepped out of a salon with a perfect perm, the Selkirk Rex might be your dream companion. Nicknamed the “cat in sheep’s clothing” by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), this breed stands out for its plush, curly coat and teddy-bear looks. Unlike most designer-looking cats, the Selkirk Rex is actually a naturally occurring mutation, first discovered in Montana in 1987, and has since been carefully developed into a recognized breed.
Characteristics
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Shedding amount
Negligible
Frequent
Compatibility with other cats
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Prey Drive
Low
High
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
Lifespan & Price of the Selkirk Rex Cat in India
Cost of buying
₹ 60,000 - ₹ 1,50,000
Lifespan: Selkirk Rex cats are generally healthy, with a lifespan of 12–15 years when given proper nutrition and vet care.
Buying or Adopting a Selkirk Rex Cat in India
Finding a Selkirk Rex in India is challenging, but not impossible. Always buy from responsible breeders who provide pedigree certification, health test reports, and vaccination records. Be wary of unverified sellers advertising “curly-haired cats” at low prices.
Nutrition Care for the Selkirk Rex
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,000
Calories per day
Kittens: 250 kcal
Adults: 300 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Fats
Carbohydrates
Vitamins
Minerals
Amino Acids (Taurine, Arginine, etc.)
Essential Fatty Acids
Fiber
List of foods
Dry kibble
Wet canned food
Chicken (cooked or raw)
Turkey
Salmon
Tuna
Eggs (cooked)
Plain yogurt (no added sugar)
Omega-3 fatty acids
The Selkirk Rex may look like a plush teddy bear, but its diet is all about fueling that sturdy body and keeping those signature curls healthy. With a medium-to-large build, a laid-back temperament, and a tendency toward couch-potato comfort, Selkirk Rex cats thrive on a diet that balances lean proteins, healthy fats, and controlled calories. In India—where pet parents are increasingly aware of obesity and skin sensitivities in cats—choosing the right food is key to ensuring your Selkirk stays both cuddly and healthy.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Choosing the Right Food for Selkirk Rex Cats
- Meat-First Diets – Ensure the first ingredient is real animal protein.
- Skip Fillers – Avoid heavy grains, soy, or low-grade by-products.
Never feed these foods to Selkirk Rex
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Onions and Garlic
Caffeine
Chocolate
Alcohol
Bones
Raw Eggs
Grapes and Raisins
Xylitol
Some foods may seem tempting but can harm your Selkirk’s health:
Health
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 500 - ₹ 700
Common Health Issues
Upper Respiratory Infections
Dental Problems
Obesity
Hairballs
Gastrointestinal Issues
Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Polycystic Kidney Disease
Activities
Play with Toys
Exploring
Climbing
Interactive Playtime
Socializing with Other Cats
Energy Level
Medium
Exercise routine
30 - 60 minutes
Recognising Stress
Hiding
Increased vocalization
Decreased appetite
Overgrooming
Changes in litter box behavior
Medical Care for the Selkirk Rex Cat
The Selkirk Rex may look like a plush teddy bear with its soft, curly coat, but beneath that charming exterior is a cat that benefits from proactive, regular medical care. While generally healthy, Selkirks can inherit certain genetic conditions from their close relatives—the Persian, British Shorthair, and Exotic Shorthair. This makes preventive vet care, grooming vigilance, and climate-smart adjustments especially important for Indian homes.
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 Weeks
FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia).
10-12 Weeks
FVRCP (Booster).
14-16 Weeks
FVRCP (Final Booster), Rabies.
Annually
Rabies (Annual or Triennial).
Annually
FVRCP (Booster).
Grooming the Selkirk Rex Cat
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 800 - ₹ 1,500
Shedding Level
Moderate Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Grooming (for some breeds)
Nail Trimming
Bathing
Ear cleaning
Teeth care
Health Observation
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Low Shedding
Odourless
Prevents infections
Quality of life
Prevents Bad Breath
The Selkirk Rex may look like a walking teddy bear with its plush, curly coat, but keeping those curls healthy in India’s climate takes some extra attention. Their dense fur is not as low-maintenance as short-haired breeds, but it’s also not as high-maintenance as the Persian. A weekly brushing session with a wide-toothed comb helps prevent tangles without flattening the curls. Over-brushing can ruin the coat’s natural texture, so moderation is key.
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are common health issues in Selkirk Rex cats?
Common health issues include upper respiratory infections, dental problems, obesity, hairballs, gastrointestinal issues, and urinary tract infections. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help manage these risks.
How do I care for a Selkirk Rex cat’s coat?
Regular grooming is essential for maintaining a Selkirk Rex cat’s coat. Brush their curly fur two to three times a week to prevent matting and tangles. Use a gentle cat shampoo for occasional baths to keep their coat clean.
Do Selkirk Rex cats get along with other pets?
Yes, Selkirk Rex cats are generally sociable and get along well with other pets, including cats and dogs. Their friendly nature makes them adaptable to multi-pet households.
