Selkirk straight

Overall description of the breed

The Selkirk Straight is a remarkable breed of cat known for its unique coat and endearing personality. Originating from the same genetic mutation as the Selkirk Rex, this breed is distinguished by its straight hair instead of curly, but shares many physical and behavioral traits with its curly-haired cousin.

The Selkirk Straight originated from a litter in 1987 in the United States, where a unique kitten named Miss DePesto was born with unusually curly hair to a breeder named Jeri Newman.

This kitten was the result of a spontaneous mutation and was crossed with a Persian to stabilize the breed. Subsequently, some kittens from these crosses inherited straight hair instead of the typical curls of the Selkirk Rex, thus giving birth to the Selkirk Straight. The breed was officially recognized by various feline associations in the early 2000s.

The Selkirk Straight is a medium to large-sized cat, sturdy and well-muscled, giving it an almost bear-like appearance. It has a round head with large expressive eyes often described as nut-shaped.

The ears are medium-sized, wide at the base, and rounded at the tips. The most distinctive feature of this breed remains its thick and dense coat which, unlike the Selkirk Rex, is straight. The coat can be short or long, and all colors and patterns are accepted according to breed standards.

The Selkirk Straight is known for its extremely gentle and patient temperament. It is a particularly affectionate cat that forms strong bonds with its owners and often seeks their company.

It is also known for being particularly tolerant and gentle with children and other animals, making it an excellent family companion. Although less active than other breeds, the Selkirk Straight is playful and enjoys play sessions with its owners. Its calm nature and adaptability make it an ideal choice for apartment living as well as in larger homes.

Selkirk Straights are very social cats that do not like to be left alone for long periods. They thrive in an environment where they can regularly interact with humans or other pets. Their natural curiosity makes them easy to train for simple tasks, and they respond well to positive reinforcement.

In summary, the Selkirk Straight is a breed that combines a distinctive and charming appearance with a gentle and accommodating character. It is devoted to its owners and makes an excellent pet for almost any type of household.

Its easy maintenance and adaptability make it an increasingly popular choice for those looking for a feline companion that is both beautiful and loving.