As children, many of us fantasized about our stuffed animals coming to life, adorable, soft, and infinitely cuddly companions. Well, it’s time to witness some of that childhood magic come true with the introduction of a new breed of cat: the Poodle cat.
Wondering about poodle cats? Don’t worry, they’re not the result of some weird cat-dog hybrid. Instead, the Poodle cat is actually the Selkirk Rex, a breed known for its beautifully curly fur, affectionately nicknamed the “cat in sheep’s clothing” by experts at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna.
The story of the Selkirk Rex begins with a stray cat named Cinderella, or more accurately Miss DePesto. This unassuming cat ended up in a shelter until Jeri Newman, a Persian cat breeder, noticed her unique curls and adopted her. Miss DePesto was given her original name in honor of the curly-haired secretary from the TV show Moonlighting, and she quickly became the basis for the Selkirk Rex breed.
While other breeds like the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex also exhibit curly coats, the Selkirk Rex is the first breed to naturally produce these distinctive curls as a dominant trait. Miss DePesto’s kittens confirmed this, as several of them inherited their mother’s characteristic curls, officially marking the Selkirk Rex as its own breed.
Spotting a curly-haired kitten can be a challenge, but there is one telltale sign: kittens’ curly whiskers from birth are the unmistakable mark of a future Poodle cat.
The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) describes Selkirk Rex cats as hardy and affectionate, making them wonderful companions due to their patience and loving nature. However, their grooming requires special care: their unique curls do not require frequent brushing, but it is important to use products designed for their distinctive coat, avoiding traditional shampoos for coating the hair. Their natural curls are part of their charm, so embrace their tousled look!
If you’re ready to welcome one of these cuddly, curly companions into your home, be prepared to invest between $500 and $800 for a kitten. But keep in mind that while they may seem like the perfect allergy-free pet, they’re not hypoallergenic, so people with sensitivities should approach them with caution.
For those who have been dreaming of bringing their beloved stuffed animal to life, it’s time to make that dream a reality. Find a reputable breeder and let one of these enchanting, curly-haired cats bring endless joy to your life!