All You Need To Know
Owning a Selkirk Rex in Malaysia
The Selkirk Rex is a unique and charming breed known for its distinctive curly coat. Their playful and sociable nature makes them wonderful companions. The Selkirk Rex’s striking appearance and gentle temperament make it a beloved choice among cat enthusiasts because they look like a curly cat plush!
As responsible parents, we highly encourage our clients to do ample research on their future furkids. From diets to enrichment and lifestyle, we believe that it is the parent’s responsibility to prepare the best living conditions for their furkids.
This article will delve into the history, physical traits, personality, care requirements, and reasons why Selkirk Rex cats are amazing pets.
Breed overview
Personality | Reserved, Cuddly, Loyal, Laid-back, Patient, Playful |
Weight | Up to 7.2 kgs |
Length | Up to 61 - 76 cm |
Coat length | Curly or Wavy medium length |
Coat color | Black, White, Blue (a soft gray), Red, Cream, Chocolate, Lilac |
Coat patterns | Solid, tabby, bicolor, tricolor, tortoiseshell, torbie, smoke, shaded |
Eye color | Green, gold, copper, blue and odd-eyed |
Lifespan | Up to 15 years |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Origin | Montana, United States |
Selkirk Rex Characteristics
Selkirk Rex cats are known for their distinctive curly fur, affectionate nature, and friendly disposition. They are medium to large in size, good with children and other pets, and have moderate exercise needs. These cats have a sturdy and muscular build, with a broad, round head and large, expressive eyes. Their playful yet calm demeanour, combined with their unique appearance, makes them a calm lap cat for homes.
Affection level | High |
Friendliness | High |
Kid-Friendly | High |
Pet-Friendly | High |
Exercise needs | Medium |
Playfullness | Medium |
Energy level | Medium |
Trainability | Medium |
Intelligence | Medium to High |
Tendency to Vocalize | Low to Medium |
History & Origin
The Selkirk Rex cat breed originated in Montana, USA, in 1987. It began with a curly-coated kitten named Miss DePesto, born from a rescue cat. Breeders crossed her with a Persian, producing kittens with both straight and curly coats, establishing the breed. Named after the Selkirk Mountains, it’s distinct for its curly fur.
Grooming & Care
Despite their long fur, Selkirk Rexs are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming compared to other longhaired breeds. Here are some grooming and care tips:
Health Issues
Selkirk Rexs are generally healthy cats, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to ensure their well-being. Some common health issues include:
Diet and Nutrition
Selkirk Rexs require a balanced diet to maintain their large size and overall health. Here are some dietary considerations:
Starting from only RM75 a month (or RM2.50 a day), Petchef’s team of vets and chefs can curate the perfect meal plan for your furkid! Each meal contains quality meat (chicken, beef, buffalo) or fish (salmon, tuna) and vegetables to ensure your furkid fulfils all their nutritional needs. No preservatives, no additives, no fillers or grains; only food they were born to eat.
PS: Here are the answers to all the questions on Petchef’s meals you might possibly have. 😉
Living with a Selkirk Rex
An adaptable breed that can thrive in various living environments, from apartments to large homes. Here are some tips for living with a Selkirk Rex:
Where to Adopt or Buy
In Malaysia, there are several options for adopting or purchasing a Selkirk Rex:
- Animal Shelters and Rescues: Check local animal shelters and rescue organisations. While Selkirk Rexs might not be as common in shelters as domestic shorthairs, there’s still a chance of finding one in need of a loving home.
- Breeders: Look for reputable Selkirk Rex breeders in Malaysia. Ensure they are registered with a recognized cat breeding association and follow ethical breeding practices. You can find breeders through online directories, cat shows, or recommendations from local veterinarians.
- Online Platforms: Websites and online forums dedicated to pets often have listings for Selkirk Rex kittens or cats available for adoption or purchase. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of sellers before making any commitments.
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram may have local groups or pages where breeders or individuals post about Selkirk Rexs available for adoption or sale.
Use Diligence
When adopting or buying a Selkirk Rex, the cat’s health and well-being should be your top priority. Make sure the seller offers comprehensive health records, proof of vaccinations, and all necessary documentation. If possible, visit the cat in person to evaluate its temperament and living environment.
Conclusion
Owning a Selkirk Rex enriches your lifestyle with their affectionate nature, unique curly coat charm, adaptability to any home, and enjoyment of cuddly lap time, offering a delightful and loving companion for everyday joy.
| Pros of Selkirk Rex Cats | Cons of Selkirk Rex Cats |
|---|---|
Affectionate, social and great for families | Grooming needs for curly coats |
Gentle and Playful | Heat sensitivity |
Unique charming appearance | Litter Box needs |
FAQs
Most common questions about Selkirk Rexs
How much is a Selkirk Rex cat in Malaysia?
Starts from RM1000 to RM5000 or more if bred by reputable breeders.
Are Selkirk Rex cats good with kids?
Yes, Selkirk Rex cats are generally good with children. They tend to have a gentle and tolerant temperament, which can make them excellent companions for families with kids.
What are the unique characteristics of Selkirk Rex cats?
Selkirk Rex cats are special for their curly coat, affectionate nature, gentle temperament, playful spirit, adaptability, and unique appearance.
Are Selkirk Rex cats high maintenance?
Selkirk Rex cats are moderately low maintenance, needing regular grooming and health checks, but their affectionate nature balances care requirements well.
Article sources:
- Obesity in cats: VCA Animal Hospitals
