Selkirk Rex vs Sphynx

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

Sphynx

Size
6–12 lbs
Lifespan
8–14 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Social Energetic Curious 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 Sphynx

The Sphynx originated in Toronto, Canada, in 1966 when a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten due to a natural genetic mutation. Through careful breeding with Devon Rex and other cats, the Sphynx was established as a robust breed. Weighing 6–12 pounds, this medium-sized cat is famous for its apparent hairlessness — though most Sphynx have a fine layer of peach-fuzz that gives their skin a warm, suede-like texture. Their wrinkled skin, lemon-shaped eyes, enormous ears, and pot belly give them an unmistakable extraterrestrial appearance.

Temperament & Personality

Sphynx cats are extroverted clowns that crave human attention and warmth — literally, as they seek out body heat and will burrow under blankets or curl up on any available lap. They are fearless, social, and endlessly entertaining, performing acrobatic feats and greeting everyone — including strangers — with enthusiasm. They do wonderfully with children, dogs, and other cats.

Pros

  • No fur shedding on furniture or clothing
  • Extremely social, affectionate, and entertaining — the ultimate companion cat
  • Gets along with virtually everyone — kids, dogs, strangers, other cats
  • Unique, striking appearance that turns heads wherever they go

Cons

  • Requires weekly baths to remove oil buildup that would normally be absorbed by fur
  • Highly susceptible to sunburn, cold, and skin infections
  • Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hereditary myopathy
  • High metabolism means they eat more than similarly sized cats and need a warm environment

Captivated by this hairless wonder? Find Sphynx cats looking for warm, loving homes on Puplister — your next cuddle buddy awaits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Selkirk Rex and a Sphynx?
The Selkirk Rex is 6–16 lbs sized while the Sphynx is 6–12 lbs sized. They differ in size (6–16 lbs vs 6–12 lbs), lifespan (15–20 years vs 8–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Selkirk Rex or Sphynx?
Selkirk Rex is generally good with kids. Sphynx is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Selkirk Rex or Sphynx?
The Selkirk Rex has a lifespan of 15–20 years while the Sphynx has a lifespan of 8–14 years.

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