Selkirk Rex Kittens For Sale

If you have been searching for Selkirk Rex kittens for sale, you are likely drawn to one of the most unique and cuddly cat breeds in the world. Sometimes called the “cat in sheep’s clothing,” the Selkirk Rex is known for its dense, plush, curly coat that feels like a teddy bear or soft lambswool. But these kittens are so much more than their adorable curls.

The Selkirk Rex is one of only four cat breeds with naturally wavy fur, alongside the Cornish Rex, Devon Rex, and LaPerm. Unlike those breeds, however, the Selkirk Rex carries a dominant gene for its curly coat, meaning every kitten in a litter has the potential to inherit those beautiful waves.

A Breed with a Fascinating Origin Story

The Selkirk Rex is a relatively new breed, with its origins tracing back to 1987 in Montana. A Persian breeder named Jeri Newman noticed an odd-looking curly-haired kitten at a shelter and adopted her. That kitten, named “Miss DePesto,” had a random genetic mutation that caused her wavy coat. Newman bred her with a black Persian male, and three of the six kittens in the litter had curly fur — proving that the gene for wavy hair was dominant.

The breed was developed using outcrosses with Persians, British Shorthairs, Exotic Shorthairs, and Himalayans, which contributed to the breed’s wonderful temperament and plush appearance. By 1994, the Selkirk Rex was accepted for championship status by The International Cat Association (TICA), and The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) followed in 2000 .

What Makes the Selkirk Rex Kitten So Special?

A Unique, Touchable Coat

The most striking feature of the Selkirk Rex is its coat. The shorthair variety has a dense, plush curl that resembles a teddy bear, while the longhair variety has an even more tousled look, similar to a woolly sheep. The curls are most prominent around the neck, flanks, and tail, and their whiskers and eyebrows are curly too.

Interestingly, kittens are curly at birth, but they may lose their coat and develop their adult curly coat between 8 to 10 months of age . The coat continues to develop until the cat is about 2 years old, so the full curly appearance takes some time to emerge.

A Gentle, Loving Personality

Beyond their looks, Selkirk Rex cats are known for their calm, patient, and affectionate nature. They are often described as “dogs in disguise” because of their devotion to their families and their willingness to walk on a leash.

The breed’s temperament reflects the cats used in its development. The British Shorthair contributed the laid-back personality, the Persian added the cuddly nature, and the Exotic Shorthair brought an impish playfulness. The result is a cat that is:

• Patient and tolerant – perfect for families with children who want to pick them up and cuddle them 

• Affectionate but not demanding – they love lap time but are not overly clingy 

• Playful – they enjoy interactive games and have a fun, clownish side 

• Social – they get along well with other pets and cat-friendly dogs 

Intelligent and Trainable

These cats are intelligent and curious. They can learn new tricks, play fetch, and have been known to open drawers to find their favorite toys . Their playful and trainable nature makes them a joy to interact with.

What to Look for When Finding Selkirk Rex Kittens for Sale

Bringing home a Selkirk Rex kitten is an exciting decision. Finding a responsible breeder is crucial to ensure you bring home a healthy, well-socialized kitten. Here is what to look for:

Health Testing Matters

A reputable breeder will prioritize the health of their cats. Look for breeders who:

• DNA test their breeding cats for genetic diseases. According to breed standards, testing should be done through labs like UC Davis or Orivet .

• Perform HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy) heart scans on their breeding cats .

• Test for FeLV/FIV .

• Can show you the health records of both parents and the kittens.

Raised in a Loving Home

Kittens should be raised in a home environment, well-socialized with people, children, and other animals. Responsible breeders will socialize their kittens and even train them to wear harnesses or use cat wheels.

A good breeder will also welcome you to visit their cattery to see the conditions where the kittens are raised. This transparency helps ensure you are not buying from a “kitten mill” or backyard breeder.

What a Good Breeder Will Provide

• Full veterinary health checks and vaccination records

• Microchipping

• Registration papers with a recognized registry like TICA or CFA 

• A health guarantee against congenital and genetic conditions

• A contract outlining the terms of sale

• Spay/neuter agreement for pet-quality kittens 

Price Range

Selkirk Rex kittens can range in price. One listing shows prices between $900 and $1200 USD. Prices can vary based on pedigree, coat quality, color, and whether the kitten is show-quality or pet-quality.

Caring for Your Selkirk Rex Kitten

Once you bring your new companion home, proper care will keep them healthy and happy.

Grooming

The Selkirk Rex has a dense, plush coat that requires regular grooming. Brush or comb your kitten twice a week to prevent mats and tangles . Use a wide-toothed comb to avoid damaging the curl’s texture . During shedding seasons, you may need to brush more frequently.

Important: Selkirk Rex cats belong to the “wash-and-wear” club and rarely need baths. When you do bathe them, blot them dry with a towel rather than using a blow dryer, as heat can damage the curl pattern.

Diet and Nutrition

Feed your Selkirk Rex a high-quality commercial diet to keep their coat healthy and reduce shedding. Look for foods rich in animal protein.

Health and Lifespan

With proper care, Selkirk Rex cats typically live between 10 and 15 years. They are generally healthy, but regular veterinary checkups are essential.

Note for allergy sufferers: Despite their plush coat, Selkirk Rex cats are not recommended for individuals who are allergic to cat allergens. They still produce the Fel d 1 protein that triggers allergies.

Activity and Enrichment

While they are laid-back, Selkirk Rex cats are still active and playful. They love interactive toys like fishing-pole toys or laser lights. They are very social and dislike being left alone for long periods. If you are rarely home, this breed may not be the best fit.

Why Choose a Selkirk Rex Kitten?

There are many cat breeds, but the Selkirk Rex offers something truly special. They have the irresistible appearance of a soft, stuffed toy combined with a gentle, loving, and playful personality. They are patient with children, get along with other pets, and will happily curl up in your lap for quiet cuddles or join you for an adventure on a leash.

If you are ready to welcome one of these cuddly, curly companions into your home, take your time, do your research, and find a breeder who prioritizes health and temperament. The bond you build with your Selkirk Rex will be one of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.