Selkirk Rex vs Persian
Discover the differences between Selkirk Rex and Persian 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.

Persian
Luxurious long fur, expressive eyes, and a calm presence define this affectionate breed. Persian cats thrive as gentle companions, bringing quiet elegance to any home.
Quick comparison
Medium
4–7 kg
Plush, curly
12–15 years
3–6 kg
Moderately active
Medium
3.5–6.0 kg
Longhaired, dense undercoat
12–17 years
3.0–5.5 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
Persian
Affectionate and gentle with family members
Learns routines but not highly problem-solving
Prefers lounging over being active
Enjoys quiet play, not very lively
Adjusts to change but prefers stability
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Selkirk Rex
Polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Persian
Polycystic kidney disease, respiratory issues
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
Persian
Good choice
Their gentle temperament suits new owners but grooming needs require extra commitment
Excellent fit
Low activity level and quiet nature are well-suited for small living spaces
Not ideal
They prefer calm environments and may be stressed by frequent noise or activity
Generally suitable
Patient and tolerant, but supervision with very young children is recommended
Usually compatible
Can get along with other pets if properly introduced and socialized
Poor choice
Persians dislike being left alone and may develop stress or behavioral issues
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
Persian
- Gentle and calm temperament
- Affectionate with family members
- Adapts well to indoor living
- Low prey drive and minimal hunting
- Quiet and rarely vocalizes
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
Persian
- Requires daily grooming and brushing
- Prone to respiratory health issues
- Sensitive to heat and humidity
- Regular eye cleaning often necessary
- Can be less playful than other breeds
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