The Selkirk Rex cat is distinguished by its highly unusual coat, which is plush and curly, including the whiskers. This breed's unique fur is the result of a spontaneous mutation that occurred in a litter born in Montana, USA, in 1987. The genetic trait responsible for the curly coat is dominant, meaning that only one parent needs to possess the gene for the trait to be passed on to their offspring. Interestingly, the curliness of their coat can vary greatly among individuals, with some displaying loose, plush curls and others having tighter ringlets. The variation in curliness can even be seen within a single litter, showcasing the unpredictability of this genetic trait.

The Selkirk Rex's personality is as distinctive as its appearance. These cats are known for their patient, loving, and highly sociable nature. They thrive on human interaction and are often described as "dog-like" in their loyalty and affection towards their owners. Despite their luxurious coats, they are relatively low-maintenance compared to other Rex breeds, requiring only minimal grooming to prevent matting and keep their curls looking their best. This breed's friendly demeanor makes them an excellent choice for families and individuals alike, as they get along well with children and other pets, including dogs.

One of the most captivating aspects of the Selkirk Rex is its genetic diversity. Apart from their curly coats, these cats can exhibit a wide range of colors and patterns, including solids, bi-color, and even the pointed patterns seen in Siamese cats. This variety is a result of the breed's mixed ancestry, which includes Persians, Exotic Shorthairs, and British Shorthairs, among others. The breed standard allows for almost all colors and patterns, which means that two Selkirk Rex cats can look quite different from each other, adding to the breed's appeal.

The Selkirk Rex is relatively rare, with its breeders maintaining strict breeding standards to ensure the health and distinctive characteristics of the cats. The careful breeding practices have helped to minimize genetic health issues commonly seen in other purebred cats. However, they are prone to the same health concerns that affect their Rex relatives, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a form of heart disease, and polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in lines that are closely related to Persians. Prospective owners are encouraged to seek out reputable breeders who test for these conditions to ensure the healthiest possible kittens.

Despite their luxurious appearance, the Selkirk Rex has a remarkably robust and muscular build, which belies their gentle and laid-back nature. They have a round head, large, expressive eyes, and a medium to large body size, with males typically weighing between 11 to 16 pounds (5 to 7.25 kilograms) and females slightly smaller. This sturdy build gives them an almost teddy bear-like appearance, especially when combined with their curly coats.

Interestingly, the Selkirk Rex's coat doesn't reach its full curliness until they are around two years old. Kittens are born with a soft, curly coat, but this can loosen and then re-curl as they mature. The full nature of their coat's curliness is not fully apparent until they reach adulthood, leading to a delightful transformation as they grow. This gradual development of their coat makes the Selkirk Rex a constant surprise to their owners, as their appearance can change notably over time.

The Selkirk Rex is known for its adaptability and can thrive in various living conditions, making them suitable for apartment living as well as larger homes. Their calm and adaptable nature means they do well in environments that match their energy level. They are not overly demanding of attention, but they do enjoy being involved in their family's activities and will often follow their owners around the house to be part of the action.

Another interesting fact about the Selkirk Rex is their vocalization. While they are not as talkative as some breeds, they do have a unique, soft voice and are known to communicate with their owners in a quiet, gentle manner. They might not meow loudly for attention, but they will make their presence known through soft chirps and purrs, especially when they are content or want to show affection.

The Selkirk Rex's intelligence and playful nature make them excellent companions for interactive play. They are curious and enjoy puzzle toys that challenge their minds, as well as toys that stimulate their hunting instincts. Despite their laid-back personality, they have bursts of energy and enjoy playtime with their owners or other pets in the home.

Lastly, the Selkirk Rex's ability to form strong bonds with their owners makes them sensitive to their owner's emotions. They are known to be empathetic creatures that can provide comfort and companionship during times of stress or sadness. Their intuitive nature, combined with their affectionate and loyal demeanor, makes them not just pets but true members of the family, capable of bringing joy and comfort to their human companions.