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Selkirk Rex vs Persian

Discover the differences between Selkirk Rex and Persian to make the best choice for your situation.

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Selkirk Rex
United States

Selkirk Rex

Persian Group
Medium

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
Iran

Persian

Persian Group
Medium

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

Size:

Medium

Male:

4–7 kg

Coat:

Plush, curly

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

3–6 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

Size:

Medium

Male:

3.5–6.0 kg

Coat:

Longhaired, dense undercoat

Lifespan:

12–17 years

Female:

3.0–5.5 kg

Energy:

Low activity needs

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Selkirk Rex

Friendliness
5/5

Affectionate and sociable with people and pets

Intelligence
4/5

Learns routines and commands quickly and easily

Energy Level
3/5

Moderate activity, enjoys both play and rest

Playfulness
4/5

Enjoys interactive games and toys regularly

Adaptability
5/5

Adjusts well to new environments and changes

Persian

Friendliness
4/5

Affectionate and gentle with family members

Intelligence
3/5

Learns routines but not highly problem-solving

Energy Level
2/5

Prefers lounging over being active

Playfulness
2/5

Enjoys quiet play, not very lively

Adaptability
3/5

Adjusts to change but prefers stability

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Selkirk Rex

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
20–30 minutes interactive play
Shedding:
Moderate shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Prefers moderate climates
Health concerns:

Polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Persian

Grooming:
High grooming needs (daily)
Exercise:
15–20 minutes gentle play
Shedding:
Heavy shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Prefers moderate climates
Health concerns:

Polycystic kidney disease, respiratory issues

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Selkirk Rex

First-time Owner
5/5

Highly suitable

Gentle and adaptable, Selkirk Rex cats are easy for newcomers to handle

Apartment Living
5/5

Great choice

Their calm nature makes them comfortable in smaller indoor spaces

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Moderately suitable

They tolerate activity but prefer a moderate, not overly busy, environment

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Patient and tolerant, they generally do well with respectful children

Multiple Pets
4/5

Good companion

Usually sociable with other pets if introduced properly

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not ideal

They can become lonely and stressed if left alone for long periods

Persian

First-time Owner
4/5

Good choice

Their gentle temperament suits new owners but grooming needs require extra commitment

Apartment Living
5/5

Excellent fit

Low activity level and quiet nature are well-suited for small living spaces

Active Lifestyle
2/5

Not ideal

They prefer calm environments and may be stressed by frequent noise or activity

Kids
4/5

Generally suitable

Patient and tolerant, but supervision with very young children is recommended

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Can get along with other pets if properly introduced and socialized

Being Left Alone
1/5

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

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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