As kids, many of us wished our stuffed animals could come to life. They were soft, cuddly, and oh-so-cute—perfect companions, right? Well, your childhood daydream might just be becoming a reality! A new breed of cat, known as the Poodle Cat, has been officially recognized.
What Exactly Are Poodle Cats?
Don’t worry, these aren’t cats mixed with the popular poodle dog breed—though they certainly resemble them. Also known as "a cat in sheep’s clothing," the Poodle Cat’s real name is the Selkirk Rex, a breed of fluffy cat with distinct curly fur.
The Birth of the Selkirk Rex (Poodle Cats)
The story behind the Selkirk Rex is like a fairy tale. In 1987, a litter of kittens was born to a feral cat in Montana. One kitten stood out: she had curly whiskers and, as she grew, curly fur. This unique appearance caught the eye of Jeri Newman, a breeder of Persian cats, who happened to be visiting the shelter. He adopted the kitten, naming her Miss DePesto after the curly-haired secretary from the TV show Moonlighting.
A Genetic Surprise
While other breeds like the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex also have curly fur, the gene responsible for this trait isn’t dominant in them, making curly kittens rare. When Newman adopted Miss DePesto, he wasn’t sure if her curly gene was dominant. So, he bred her with his black Persian cat, PhotoFinish, and waited. When the kittens were born, 3 out of 6 had curly fur, proving that Miss DePesto’s curly gene was indeed dominant. This discovery made the Selkirk Rex the first naturally dominant curly-haired breed.
Spotting a Selkirk Rex in a Litter
It might be hard to tell if a kitten’s fur is curly or straight right at birth, but you can spot a Selkirk Rex by looking at their whiskers. Unlike regular kittens, they’ll have curly whiskers from the moment they’re born.
Caring for Poodle Cats
The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) notes that Selkirk Rex cats are generally healthy and strong. They are also known for their loving, patient, and tolerant nature, making them excellent companions. However, caring for a Poodle Cat requires a bit of special attention:
Whether short- or long-haired, a Selkirk Rex needs less brushing than other cats to maintain their curls.
When bathing, avoid shampoos that coat their fur. Consult with your breeder or pet store for suitable recommendations.
Embrace the “messy” look. Their curls are meant to appear disheveled and natural!
The Ideal Companion
Selkirk Rex cats are affectionate and playful, often seeking attention and cuddles. With their soft, curly fur and charming personalities, they make perfect pets for those who love a furry friend with a fun side. However, these curly cats don’t come cheap—a Selkirk kitten can cost between $500 and $800.
If the price doesn’t deter you, consider your allergies. Unlike poodles, these cats are not hypoallergenic and may not be ideal for those with pet sensitivities.
A Furry Fairy Tale
So, if you’ve always wanted your childhood teddy bear to come to life and be your new best friend, your dream might just be within reach! Contact a breeder and get ready to welcome a curly-haired companion into your home—you won’t regret it!
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