LaPerm vs Selkirk Rex: Two Curly-Coated Breeds

Last updated: May 6, 2026

Quick Comparison

The LaPerm vs Selkirk Rex comparison highlights one of the most interesting points in feline genetics: two breeds that look superficially similar — both curly-coated — actually carry different dominant mutations producing different textures, different growth patterns, and noticeably different upkeep. The LaPerm carries the dominant Lp gene; the Selkirk Rex carries the dominant Re gene. Crossing the two does not produce a “better” curly cat.

The LaPerm coat tends toward loose curls, ringlets, and waves with a light, airy texture. Kittens are sometimes born with straight coats and develop their curls over months — and the coat continues to change throughout the cat’s life. The Selkirk Rex coat is plush and woolly, with curls that appear all over including the belly and tail, giving the breed a “cat in sheep’s clothing” appearance.

Temperament and care needs differ in subtle but real ways. LaPerms are typically more active and people-following; Selkirks tend toward calmer, more patient personalities. Costs run in the moderate-to-higher range for both, with availability stronger for Selkirk Rex in most regions. The decision usually comes down to coat aesthetic, activity preference, and grooming tolerance.

Origin & History

The LaPerm originated in 1982 on a cherry farm in The Dalles, Oregon, when a barn cat named Speedy gave birth to a hairless kitten. The kitten developed a soft, curly coat as it grew, and the dominant Lp gene was eventually identified. Breeder Linda Koehl developed the line through outcrossing to working domestic cats in the area, preserving genetic diversity. TICA recognized the LaPerm in 2002, and CFA followed in 2008.

The Selkirk Rex began in 1987 in Montana, when a rescue kitten named Miss DePesto displayed an unusual curly coat. Breeder Jeri Newman crossed her with a black Persian to test the trait’s heritability, and the dominant Re gene was confirmed. Outcrossing to British Shorthairs, Persians, and Exotic Shorthairs broadened the gene pool. CFA recognized the breed for championship in 2000.

Both breeds rely on spontaneous dominant mutations and were developed through outcrossing rather than tight inbreeding, which has helped maintain genetic health. They are independent, distinct breeds — not variants of one another, despite their shared curly aesthetic.

Appearance & Build

LaPerm body type is moderate — medium-sized, balanced, and athletic without being heavy. The breed comes in shorthair and longhair varieties, with curls more pronounced on the longhair version. The coat shows curls, waves, and ringlets concentrated on the ruff, belly, base of ears, and underside of the tail. Color and pattern are unrestricted — virtually every recognized cat color appears in LaPerms. Eye color spans the full spectrum.

The Selkirk Rex has a heavier, rounder body, often described as British Shorthair-like in build. The coat is plush and dense, with curls covering the entire body — back, belly, tail, and even whiskers, which often curl as well. Both shorthair and longhair varieties exist; longhairs carry more pronounced ringlets, while shorthairs have a tighter, woollier wave. All colors and patterns are accepted.

One immediate visual difference: the LaPerm often looks “tousled” or “windswept,” while the Selkirk Rex looks deliberately permed. Selkirks may also produce straight-coated kittens (carriers of the recessive form of the gene) within a litter. Both breeds’ coats can change with weather, hormones, and life stage — most dramatically in LaPerms, whose coats may shed and regrow with new curl patterns.

Temperament & Personality

LaPerms are typically active, curious, and people-oriented. They follow their humans, ride on shoulders, and engage in conversation throughout the day. They retain their working-cat heritage with strong hunting and play drives. Most LaPerms are confident with strangers, friendly with children, and tolerant of other cats and dogs introduced thoughtfully.

Selkirk Rex are usually calmer, more patient, and more flexible about being held. They blend the laid-back nature of the British Shorthair, the sweetness of the Persian, and the mischief of the Exotic into a cat that can hop into a lap one moment and chase a feather wand the next. Many Selkirks are described as “patient teddy bears” who tolerate handling and household chaos with grace.

Both breeds are affectionate, but the LaPerm leans more “active companion” while the Selkirk leans more “easygoing partner.” Energy levels differ correspondingly — LaPerms need more daily play, while Selkirks are content with shorter, gentler sessions. Both bond with their entire household rather than picking a single favorite.

Care, Grooming & Activity Needs

Grooming differs surprisingly between these two curly breeds. The LaPerm coat is light and airy and rarely mats, requiring only occasional combing — perhaps once a week, more during shedding seasons. Aggressive brushing actually flattens the curls, so a light hand works best. Bathing once every few months keeps the coat fresh; the curls bounce back as the cat dries.

Selkirk Rex coats need slightly more attention because the dense, plush texture can trap shed hair. A weekly comb-through with a wide-toothed tool prevents matting in longhair Selkirks. Bathing should be done sparingly — too frequent washing can over-soften the coat and reduce the curl structure. Both breeds need standard nail care, dental brushing, and ear checks.

Kitten and Adolescent Stage

LaPerm kittens are sometimes born with straight or sparse coats and develop their curls over weeks or months — a phenomenon called “curl maturation.” Selkirk kittens are usually clearly curly from birth. Both breeds benefit from early socialization with people, vacuum cleaners, vet handling, and friendly other pets.

Adult and Senior Stage

Adult LaPerms continue to refine their coat for years; the curl pattern can shift with age, season, and hormones. Adult Selkirks settle into a stable curl structure that may slightly relax with age. Senior care follows standard guidance — biannual exams, dental monitoring, and weight tracking. Review the senior cat care checklist as either breed ages.

Health & Lifespan

Both breeds enjoy reasonable lifespans for medium-sized domestic cats. The LaPerm’s broad outcrossing program has helped maintain genetic diversity, and the breed has no widely documented major hereditary issues, though responsible breeders screen for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and standard dental concerns.

The Selkirk Rex inherits some risks from its foundation breeds. Persian-derived lines may carry concerns associated with the Persian, including potential heart issues; British Shorthair-derived lines may need cardiac screening as well. Reputable Selkirk breeders test parents for HCM and avoid extreme brachycephalic facial structure.

Both breeds may experience oily skin or coat residue if not bathed periodically. Watch for ear wax buildup in curly-coated breeds, since the curls can affect ear ventilation. Annual wellness exams catch issues early.

Living Situation Fit

LaPerms suit active households with people who enjoy interactive play, climbing structures, and engaged conversation with their cat. They thrive in multi-pet homes when introduced carefully. They handle apartments well with sufficient vertical space and daily play. They tolerate working households reasonably if a feline companion is present.

Selkirk Rex fit calmer households where a cat can lounge, occasionally play, and join the family at mealtime. They are excellent companions for older adults, families with children who handle gently, and homes with quiet routines. They handle apartments very well due to their lower activity needs.

Neither breed is recommended for outdoor free-roaming. Curly coats can collect debris and parasites more easily than smooth coats, and both breeds’ people-oriented dispositions make them vulnerable to theft or vehicle accidents. Catios and harness walks provide safe outdoor experiences.

Cost & Availability

Pet-quality kittens of both breeds typically run in the moderate-to-higher range, with show-quality and rare colors costing more. Selkirk Rex are more widely available across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. LaPerms are scarcer, with longer waiting lists at established breeders, especially for show-quality longhairs.

Adoption is uncommon but possible for both breeds. Curly-coated mixed-breed cats occasionally appear in rescue and may share some of the same charm. Browse adoptable cats and review cat-only rescues for breed-leaning options. Lifetime costs track standard medium-cat budgets — review the first-year cost of owning a cat for planning.

Decision Framework: When to Choose Each

Choose the LaPerm if: you want an active, conversational, people-following cat with a tousled, ever-changing curly coat that requires minimal grooming. The LaPerm suits households where the cat will be part of daily activities, where interactive play is welcome, and where a slightly unpredictable coat (kittens born straight, curls developing) is part of the charm.

Choose the Selkirk Rex if: you want a calmer, more patient, plush curly cat with a “teddy bear” demeanor that fits quieter households, families with gentle children, or older adopters. The Selkirk is also the easier breed to find through reputable breeders in most regions and is the better choice if you prefer a cat that lounges as much as it plays.

If you want to compare against other curly-coated breeds, browse the curly-coated cat breeds roundup. The B108 sibling article Cornish Rex vs LaPerm adds another curl comparison. For breed-specific deep dives, see the LaPerm profile and the Selkirk Rex profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are LaPerm and Selkirk Rex curls the same?

No. The LaPerm carries the Lp gene producing loose curls, ringlets, and waves with an airy texture. The Selkirk Rex carries the Re gene producing plush, woolly curls all over the body, including the belly and tail. The genes are different, and crossing the two breeds does not produce improved curls.

Why are LaPerm kittens sometimes born with straight coats?

The Lp gene’s expression varies, and many LaPerm kittens go through phases of straight, sparse, or even partially bald coats before curls develop. The adult coat can also change with weather, hormones, and life stage. This is normal for the breed.

Are curly-coated cats hypoallergenic?

No. Neither LaPerm nor Selkirk Rex is hypoallergenic. They still produce the Fel d 1 protein responsible for most cat allergies. People with mild sensitivities sometimes tolerate them better, but neither breed is a guaranteed allergy-friendly choice.

Do these breeds shed?

Yes, both shed, though usually less than typical shorthairs. The Selkirk Rex’s denser coat may trap shed hair, requiring weekly brushing. LaPerms shed lightly and the loose hairs often become trapped in the curls until brushed out.

Which breed is better for a first-time owner?

The Selkirk Rex is generally easier for first-time owners due to its calmer temperament, easier breeder availability, and patient handling tolerance. LaPerms are also good but suit owners ready for a more active, engaged cat.