At first glance, the term “poodle cat” may sound like a misnomer—after all, poodles are dogs. But step into the enchanting world of feline genetics, and you’ll find the Selkirk Rex, a rare curly-haired breed affectionately dubbed the poodle cat. Known for their cloud-like curls and affectionate nature, these cats are quickly charming their way into the hearts of cat lovers everywhere.
The Selkirk Rex is not your average cat. This whimsical breed emerged due to a stunning quirk of nature—a spontaneous genetic mutation. The first of these curly-coated kitties was born in 1987 in Montana near the Selkirk Mountains. The kitten’s tight curls reminded many of actress Agnes DiPesto’s signature hairstyle on the popular TV show “Moonlighting,” giving her the nickname Miss DiPesto.
Miss DiPesto’s unique fur caught the eye of breeder Jeri Newman, who was captivated by the kitten’s woolly coat. She adopted the kitten and bred her with a black Persian tomcat. Their offspring indicated that the curly-fur gene was dominant, as several kittens in the litter shared Miss DiPesto’s distinctive curls. This new breed was further refined over generations, combining genetic lines from Persians, British Shorthairs, Exotics, and American Shorthairs to enhance both health and appearance.
Declared an official breed in 2012 by the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, the Selkirk Rex was named after the region near where it originated. Although part of the Rex family, which includes the Cornish and Devon Rex breeds, the Selkirk Rex distinguishes itself with a fuller, plush coat and often curly whiskers to match.
What truly makes the Selkirk Rex fascinating is that the curly trait affects only the texture of the fur—not its color or pattern. That means these kitties sport curls in every possible shade and combination. Their thick, tousled coat gives them a charming, almost sheep-like appearance, earning them nicknames like “cat in sheep’s clothing” and living teddy bears.
Beyond their adorable looks, Selkirk Rex cats have personalities as cuddly as their coats. According to The International Cat Association (TICA), they make excellent companions for families, offering both charm and affection in abundance. These delightful felines are known for their:
- Loving personalities that seek human connection
- Patient and tolerant demeanor, making them great with children
- Laid-back attitudes, enjoying both playtime and relaxation
- Playful spirit without being excessively demanding
- Adaptability to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes
However, their luxurious curls require a bit of upkeep. Their dense and textured coat can mat if not groomed regularly. While they’re low-drama in temperament, poodle cats benefit from frequent brushing sessions to keep their coats healthy and their skin comfortable.
Unfortunately, their thick coats may not be ideal for allergy sufferers. While no cat is truly hypoallergenic, the combination of fur type and volume in Selkirk Rex cats can intensify allergic reactions for sensitive individuals. Still, even if one can’t physically snuggle one of these fluff-balls, admiring them from afar offers its own kind of joy.
From a one-of-a-kind shelter kitten to a globally recognized breed, the Selkirk Rex proves that nature’s surprises can be both beautiful and heartwarming. Their curly coats, comical expressions, and delightful dispositions make poodle cats an irresistible trend in the feline world—one that’s likely here to stay.
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