Curly-haired cats, like the Selkirk Rex or LaPerm, have unique and beautiful coats. These curls add charm, but they also require a specific approach to grooming. Regular care helps prevent matting and keeps their fur healthy and comfortable. A consistent routine makes grooming time easier for both you and your cat.
Understanding Your Curly Cat’s Coat
Curly coats can vary in density and tightness. Some are soft and loose, others are tighter and more woolly. This curl pattern can easily trap loose hair, leading to tangles and mats if not brushed regularly. Unlike straight-haired cats, shedding hair tends to stay within the coat, which can worsen matting if not removed.
Regular brushing helps to distribute natural skin oils through the coat, which keeps the fur soft and less prone to breakage. It also removes dead hair and debris, which is important for skin health.
The Brushing Routine for Curly Coats
Start your grooming sessions when your cat is relaxed. Use gentle strokes to avoid pulling or startling them. A soft touch builds trust and makes future sessions smoother.
For curly coats, you need tools that can reach through the curls without damaging them. A slicker-style brush with longer tines is often helpful. The Small Size Metallic Brush with Extra Long Tines can work well for smaller cats or for detailed areas. For larger cats or broader areas of the body, a Big Size Metallic Brush allows you to cover more ground efficiently. These brushes are designed to reach deeper into the coat.
Brush in sections, working from the tips of the hair towards the skin. Be especially careful around sensitive areas like the belly, armpits, and behind the ears. These spots are common places for mats to form.
After brushing, a professional comb can help you check for any remaining tangles. The Professional Combs include a wide-tooth option, which is good for gently separating curls without breaking them up. Run the comb from root to tip to ensure the coat is free of knots.
Preventing and Managing Mats
Mats are painful for your cat and can lead to skin problems. Prevention is always easier than removal. Consistent daily or every-other-day brushing is your best defense against mats.
If you find a small tangle, try to gently work it out with your fingers first, then with the wide-tooth comb. Always support the skin at the base of the mat to prevent pulling. Never try to cut out mats with scissors, as it is easy to accidentally cut the skin beneath the mat.
Focus on areas where friction occurs, such as under the collar, behind the ears, in the armpits, and on the hind legs. These areas are especially prone to matting.
Addressing Tear Stains
Some curly-haired cat breeds, especially those with flatter faces, can develop tear stains around their eyes. These stains are caused by excess tearing and can accumulate in the fur.
To manage tear stains, keep the area clean and dry. Gently wipe the area around your cat’s eyes daily with a clean, soft cloth. For existing stains, No Stain is a daily powder made for dogs and cats. Apply a small amount with a clean cotton swab to the stained area. Do not dip your fingers into the jar to keep the powder clean. Regular application helps keep the area looking tidy.
Bathing and Drying Your Curly Cat
While this post focuses on brushing, some curly-haired cats may need occasional baths. When bathing your cat, always use a shampoo made specifically for cats. After rinsing thoroughly, blot the coat with a highly absorbent towel. A Big Size Microfiber Towel can help remove excess water quickly without rubbing, which can encourage matting.
Allowing your cat to air dry, or using a low-heat, low-speed pet dryer, helps preserve their natural curl pattern. Avoid harsh heat or strong airflow, which can disrupt the curls and create frizz.
For more information on grooming tools and finding the right ones for your pet, explore our selection of Grooming Tools.
What you need
- Small Size Metallic Brush with Extra Long Tines: for brushing smaller cats or detailed areas of the coat.
- Big Size Metallic Brush: for brushing larger cats or broader areas of the coat.
- Professional Combs: for checking for knots and gently separating curls.
- No Stain: for daily application to manage tear stains around the eyes.
- Big Size Microfiber Towel: for blotting excess water after a bath.
If you want a grooming routine built for your specific pet, visit our Grooming Advisor.