How was this curly-coated beauty born, and what makes it so special?
The Selkirk Rex is a relatively new and unique breed that has quickly captured the hearts of cat lovers with its distinctive appearance and friendly nature. But how did this breed come to be, and why has it become so popular? In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Selkirk Rex, its special traits, and the rarity of its dominant blue-eyed variation.
How was the Selkirk Rex breed created?
The story of the Selkirk Rex began in 1987 in Montana, USA. In a litter of rescued kittens, a single special kitten was born with curly fur. Jeri Newman, a breeder, adopted the kitten and named her Miss DiPesto, after a curly-haired character from the television show “Moonlighting.”
Miss DiPesto was bred with a black Persian male, and their offspring included both curly and straight-haired kittens, proving that the curly coat is caused by a dominant gene. This discovery marked the beginning of the Selkirk Rex as a recognized breed.
What cat does the Selkirk Rex resemble, and which organizations recognize it?
The Selkirk Rex’s curly coat draws comparisons to other Rex breeds, such as the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex. However, its fur is denser and softer, giving it a unique, plush appearance. Unlike other Rex breeds, the Selkirk Rex has a sturdier build, often referred to as the “teddy bear” of cats.
The breed has gained recognition from major cat associations worldwide. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) officially recognized the Selkirk Rex in 2000. It is also accepted by The International Cat Association (TICA) and the World Cat Federation (WCF), solidifying its place as a globally beloved breed.
Why is the Selkirk Rex so popular, and what makes it special?
The Selkirk Rex’s popularity stems from its unique combination of looks and personality. Its plush, curly coat gives it a distinctive charm, while its loving, easygoing nature makes it an ideal companion.
One of the breed’s most appreciated traits is its low-shedding coat. Unlike many straight-haired cats, the Selkirk Rex’s curls hold loose hairs, reducing shedding and making it a cleaner option for households. Owners also find grooming manageable, with a simple weekly brushing keeping the coat in excellent condition.
This low-shedding characteristic has made the Selkirk Rex especially popular among people who love cats but want to minimize fur in their homes.
How rare is the dominant blue-eyed Selkirk Rex, and why is it special?
The dominant blue-eyed Selkirk Rex is extremely rare, with only a few known individuals worldwide. This unique feature is a genetic rarity, as blue eyes are usually tied to specific coat colors or patterns, such as pointed or white cats. In Selkirk Rex cats, the occurrence of dominant blue eyes is both visually stunning and genetically extraordinary.
The New Wave Kitty Cattery is the home of rare blue-eyed Selkirk Rex cats
At New Wave Kitty Cattery, we are proud to be among the few breeders with dominant blue-eyed Selkirk Rex cats. Our dedication to preserving the breed’s diversity and promoting its most unique traits sets us apart.
We carefully select our breeding cats to ensure not only exceptional appearances but also excellent health and temperament. Each kitten raised in our cattery is well-socialized and ready to become a cherished family member.
The Selkirk Rex is a captivating breed with a rich history and unique traits. Its low-shedding, curly coat and lovable personality make it a favorite among cat enthusiasts. While already special, the rarity of the dominant blue-eyed variation adds an extra layer of allure.
At New Wave Kitty Cattery, we are honored to play a part in the legacy of this extraordinary breed, offering a home to some of the rarest and most beautiful Selkirk Rex cats in the world. If you’re looking for a truly unique and loving companion, the Selkirk Rex is an excellent choice!