Selkirk Rex vs Siamese

Which cat breed is right for you?

Selkirk Rex

Size
6–16 lbs
Lifespan
15–20 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Patient Loving Playful Social

Siamese

Size
6–14 lbs
Lifespan
12–20 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Vocal Social Intelligent Affectionate

About the Selkirk Rex

The Selkirk Rex originated in Montana in 1987 from a single curly-coated kitten found in a shelter litter and later crossed with a Persian. Unlike the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex, the Selkirk Rex has a full, plush coat of loose, tumbling curls — including curly whiskers. This is a medium-to-large cat weighing 6–16 pounds with a round head, full cheeks, and a sturdy, muscular build. They come in both longhair and shorthair varieties, in every color and pattern, with the longhair displaying the most dramatic ringlets.

Temperament & Personality

Selkirk Rex cats are patient, laid-back companions with a goofy, playful streak that persists into adulthood. They enjoy being held and cuddled but are not overly demanding of attention — content to amuse themselves when their humans are busy. Their tolerant nature makes them wonderful with children and other pets.

Pros

  • Unique, teddy bear-like curly coat that is irresistibly soft to the touch
  • Patient and tolerant — excellent choice for families with young children
  • Easygoing and adaptable to various living situations
  • Less intense grooming than expected — curls should not be over-brushed

Cons

  • Curly coat can trap oils, requiring regular bathing to keep skin and fur healthy
  • Prone to polycystic kidney disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from Persian heritage
  • Shedding can be significant — curly fur catches on furniture and clothing
  • Over-brushing straightens the curls, requiring a delicate grooming approach

Can't resist those adorable curls? Browse Selkirk Rex cats available on Puplister and find your curly-coated companion.

About the Siamese

The Siamese is one of the most iconic and ancient cat breeds, originating in the kingdom of Siam (now Thailand) and first documented in the Tamra Maew ("The Cat-Book Poems") dating to the 14th century. This sleek, muscular cat weighs 6–14 pounds and is immediately recognizable by its striking colorpoint pattern — a pale cream or fawn body with darker coloring on the face, ears, paws, and tail. The four traditional point colors are seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac, all paired with vivid sapphire-blue almond-shaped eyes.

Temperament & Personality

Siamese cats are among the most vocal and opinionated cats in the world — they will narrate their day in a loud, distinctive raspy voice and expect you to listen. They are fiercely loyal, deeply social, and form intense bonds with their owners, often becoming a one-person cat. Intelligent and active, they need constant stimulation and do best with a companion — whether human, feline, or canine.

Pros

  • Strikingly beautiful with mesmerizing blue eyes and elegant lines
  • Exceptionally intelligent — can learn tricks, walk on a leash, and solve puzzle toys
  • Deeply bonded and loyal to their chosen person
  • Short, fine coat requires almost no grooming

Cons

  • Extremely vocal — constant loud meowing is not for everyone
  • Prone to severe separation anxiety and can become destructive when left alone
  • Susceptible to amyloidosis, asthma, progressive retinal atrophy, and crossed eyes
  • Demanding of attention — may become jealous of other pets or family members

Ready for a devoted, chatty companion who will never let you feel alone? Find Siamese cats waiting for their forever families on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Selkirk Rex and a Siamese?
The Selkirk Rex is 6–16 lbs sized while the Siamese is 6–14 lbs sized. They differ in size (6–16 lbs vs 6–14 lbs), lifespan (15–20 years vs 12–20 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Selkirk Rex or Siamese?
Selkirk Rex is generally good with kids. Siamese is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Selkirk Rex or Siamese?
The Selkirk Rex has a lifespan of 15–20 years while the Siamese has a lifespan of 12–20 years.

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