Photos: Rare Cat Breeds

This breed originated in Montana in 1987. If you are in the market for an incredibly loving, patient, and tolerant cat—who is prone to bad hair days—the Selkirk Rex is for you. This is a naturally wooly-looking, curly-haired cat that feels soft like a Teddy bear. They are large and heavy-boned with a beefy physique. The curly hair grows curliest on their haunches, tummy, neck, and back. This breed comes as short or long-haired and, my goodness, even their whiskers are curled!

Fun Fact: This cat's curls stay swirliest and softest if you don’t over brush. The drawback is a permanent bed-head look which invites unsolicited comments about your lack of cat grooming skills. You can always explain to guests that the hairstyle is called, “Paw in the electric socket.”