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Selkirk Cats

Pet Road Tests > Cats

Breed: Selkirk cats
Temperament: placid, love companionship
Cost: $300 (pet) $500 (show)
Lifespan: up to 15 years
Maintenance: low (shorthair) medium (longhair)
Recommended for: anyone who wants something different

History

Rex cats, such as the Devon Rex, Cornish Rex and this newer type, the Selkirk Rex, are all distinguished by their unique hair. Each of the rex varieties has curly hair follicles, giving the appearance of a wavy coat. And each variety is distinguished from the other by its general appearance; some appearing more curly than others.

This particular type of rex cat first appeared in 1987 in the United States. A curly coated kitten appeared by chance amongst a litter of straight haired kittens from a trapped feral cat.

The kitten grew up and was eventually crossed with a Persian. Six kittens were born, three with a straight coat and three with the curly coat. This suggested that the gene responsible for the curly coat was dominant - quite different to the Cornish and Devon Rex breeds whose

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