As children, many of us imagined our plush toys coming to life—soft, fluffy, and endlessly cuddly. It seemed like the perfect dream. Today, that dream feels surprisingly close to reality thanks to a uniquely adorable breed gaining attention for its sheep-like fur and delightfully curly whiskers. These charming felines are commonly called poodle cats, though their official name—recognized by feline associations—is the Selkirk Rex.

With their cloud-like coats and warm, affectionate personalities, these cats are quickly becoming favorites among pet lovers seeking something both unusual and irresistibly sweet.

What Exactly Is a Poodle Cat?

Despite the whimsical nickname, poodle cats are all cat—no actual poodle or canine lineage involved. Their curly appearance simply gives them a look reminiscent of wooly animals, earning them fun nicknames such as “a cat in sheep’s clothing.”

Their official breed name, Selkirk Rex, was established by researchers and feline genetic experts who recognized the uniqueness of their naturally curly coats. Unlike most cat breeds, the Selkirk Rex’s standout feature is a coat filled with spirals, waves, or plush ringlets.

These curls can vary in intensity from cat to cat, but all Selkirk Rex cats share the same signature trait: a full, dense coat that looks soft enough to nap on.

A Storybook Beginning: The Origin of the Selkirk Rex

The origin of this breed reads almost like a fairy tale.

In 1987, a litter of kittens was born to a cat living in Montana. Among them, one kitten looked noticeably different. She had curly whiskers and a gently wavy coat—traits that set her apart from her siblings.

Her unusual appearance caught the eye of Jeri Newman, a Persian cat breeder visiting the shelter. Captivated by her unique curls, Newman adopted the kitten and named her Miss DePesto, inspired by a character known for her signature curls from the TV show Moonlighting.

What started as one curly kitten would soon spark the creation of an entirely new breed.

The Genetics Behind Their Curly Coats

Curly-coated cats already existed—such as the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex—but their curly genes are recessive. This means kittens only develop curls when both parents carry the same hidden trait.

The Selkirk Rex is different. Miss DePesto’s curls came from a dominant gene, meaning only one parent needs to carry it for the kittens to inherit the unique coat.

To test this, Newman bred Miss DePesto with a Persian cat named PhotoFinish. When the kittens were born, three out of six had curly coats—clear evidence that the gene was dominant. This made the Selkirk Rex the first breed recognized for a naturally dominant curly-haired trait.

How to Identify a Selkirk Rex Kitten

While adult Selkirk Rex cats are unmistakable with their waves and curls, newborn kittens can be trickier to identify. The easiest early indicator is curly whiskers, which appear long before the coat fully develops its texture.

As the kittens grow, their fur gradually forms its iconic curls, often becoming fuller and more defined with age.

Caring for a Poodle Cat: Tips for Their Unique Coats

Selkirk Rex cats are known to be sturdy, loving, and patient companions. Their grooming needs, however, are a bit different from straight-haired cats.

Here are some gentle care tips for maintaining their signature curls:

Brush Less, Not More

While it seems counterintuitive, brushing too frequently can disrupt their natural curl pattern. Occasional brushing is enough to prevent tangles without flattening the curls.

Choose the Right Shampoo

When bathing, avoid shampoos that add heavy coatings or smoothing agents. Lighter, curl-friendly formulas help keep their natural texture intact. Pet stores or responsible breeders often provide helpful recommendations.

Embrace the Messy Look

Selkirk Rex cats naturally have a slightly tousled, “just rolled out of bed” appearance. This is part of their charm. Their curls are meant to look playful and soft rather than perfectly formed.

What Are Poodle Cats Like as Pets?

Beyond their appearance, what truly sets Selkirk Rex cats apart is their temperament. They are often described as:

• Affectionate – They enjoy human company and love being near their families.
• Playful – They have lively, curious personalities that make them fun to interact with.
• Gentle and tolerant – Their easygoing nature makes them adaptable and friendly.

Because of their loving disposition and plush coats, many owners describe them as living teddy bears—warm, snuggly, and always eager for attention.

Considerations Before Bringing One Home

Like any special breed, Selkirk Rex kittens can be a significant investment, often ranging from $500 to $800, depending on lineage and breeder certification.

Additionally, while many people assume curly-coated pets might be more compatible with allergies, Selkirk Rex cats are not hypoallergenic. Their thick coats naturally shed, which may not be suitable for those sensitive to pet dander.

Anyone considering adopting one should be ready for grooming routines, regular vet care, and plenty of daily affection.

A New Best Friend for Cat Lovers

For anyone who once wished their favorite plush toy could come to life, the Selkirk Rex offers a delightful modern-day equivalent. Their blend of whimsy, warmth, and wonder makes them standout companions for individuals and families alike.

If you find yourself drawn to their fluffy curls, bright eyes, and gentle demeanor, reaching out to a responsible breeder or rescue organization may be the first step toward finding a new feline friend who feels straight out of a storybook.

A Reflection on Human Curiosity

The rise of poodle cats is a reminder of how deeply human curiosity connects us to the natural world. Discovering unique breeds, learning about their origins, and appreciating their special traits reflect our desire to understand and celebrate the diversity found in everyday life. Each new discovery—in this case, a curly-coated kitten—adds a bit of wonder to the world around us.

Sources

• Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) – Selkirk Rex Breed Profile
• International Cat Association (TICA) – Genetics and Breed History
• University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna – Research on Feline Coat Variation
• Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery – Studies on Coat Care and Grooming