Selkirk Rex vs British Shorthair
Discover the differences between Selkirk Rex and British Shorthair to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Selkirk Rex
Curly-coated and affectionate, this playful breed brings warmth and charm to any home. Selkirk Rex cats thrive on companionship and adapt well to family life.
British Shorthair
Round-faced, plush-coated, and calm, this breed charms with its affectionate yet independent nature. Adaptable and gentle, it thrives as a loving companion in any home.
Quick comparison
Medium
4–7 kg
Plush, curly
12–15 years
3–6 kg
Moderately active
Large
5–9 kg
Shorthaired, plush
12–17 years
4–7 kg
Low activity needs
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Selkirk Rex
Affectionate and sociable with people and pets
Learns routines and commands quickly and easily
Moderate activity, enjoys both play and rest
Enjoys interactive games and toys regularly
Adjusts well to new environments and changes
British Shorthair
Calm and gentle with people and children
Learns routines and commands fairly quickly
Usually low-energy, prefers lounging to running
Enjoys toys but not overly active
Adjusts well to new environments and changes
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Selkirk Rex
Polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
British Shorthair
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, gingivitis
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Selkirk Rex
Highly suitable
Gentle and adaptable, Selkirk Rex cats are easy for newcomers to handle
Great choice
Their calm nature makes them comfortable in smaller indoor spaces
Moderately suitable
They tolerate activity but prefer a moderate, not overly busy, environment
Very friendly
Patient and tolerant, they generally do well with respectful children
Good companion
Usually sociable with other pets if introduced properly
Not ideal
They can become lonely and stressed if left alone for long periods
British Shorthair
Great choice
British Shorthairs are easygoing and forgiving, making them manageable for new cat owners.
Very suitable
Their calm nature and moderate activity level suit smaller living spaces well.
Not ideal
They prefer a calm environment and may be overwhelmed by constant activity.
Perfect fit
Their gentle and patient temperament makes them safe around young children.
Highly suitable
They usually get along with other pets due to their non-territorial attitude.
May get lonely
Extended solitude can lead to boredom or stress for this affectionate breed.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Selkirk Rex
- Affectionate with family members
- Tolerates other pets well
- Playful and social demeanor
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Distinctive curly, plush coat
British Shorthair
- Calm and easygoing temperament
- Tolerates children and other pets well
- Low grooming needs due to dense coat
- Adaptable to indoor living environments
- Generally robust and healthy breed
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Selkirk Rex
- Requires regular grooming for coat maintenance
- Can develop matting or tangles easily
- May be prone to obesity if inactive
- Sensitive to heat due to thick fur
- Prone to certain hereditary health issues
British Shorthair
- Can be prone to obesity if overfed
- May dislike being carried or cuddled
- Needs mental stimulation to prevent boredom
- Can develop dental issues without care
- May be reserved with unfamiliar people
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