Best Brushes for American Curls

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush — best for Medium-coated American Curls. Why it wins: Gentle on sensitive skin.

American Curl cats boast a unique, silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. With their low shedding rate, they don't require intense deshedding tools, but rather gentle, effective brushes that cater to their medium-length coat. The American Curl's coat can be either short or long, making it essential to choose a brush that adapts to their individual needs. Their low grooming needs and low shedding rate make them an ideal breed for busy owners, but regular brushing is still crucial to prevent hairballs and distribute skin oils. A well-chosen brush will not only keep their coat healthy but also strengthen the bond between cat and owner, as American Curls are known for their affectionate and playful nature. When selecting a brush for an American Curl, it's essential to consider their coat type, shedding rate, and potential matting issues. A brush that gently detangles and removes loose hair without causing breakage or discomfort is ideal for this breed.

What to look for

Coat Type and Length

American Curls have a silky, medium-length coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. A brush with flexible pins or gentle bristles is ideal for their coat type. For long-haired American Curls, a brush with longer pins or a wide-tooth comb may be necessary to detangle and prevent matting.

Shedding Rate

American Curls have a low shedding rate, which means they don't require intense deshedding tools. However, regular brushing is still necessary to remove loose hair and prevent hairballs.

Matting and Tangling

American Curls' silky coat can be prone to matting and tangling, especially around the ears and neck. A brush that gently detangles and works out knots without causing breakage or discomfort is essential for this breed.

Gentle and Effective

American Curls are affectionate and playful, but they can be sensitive to rough brushing. A gentle, effective brush that removes loose hair and distributes skin oils without causing discomfort is ideal for this breed.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush	Medium-coated American Curls
2	KONG ZoomGroom Cat Grooming Brush	Short-coated American Curls
3	Safari Cat Shedding Comb	Long-haired American Curls
4	Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Brush for Cats	American Curls with matting issues
5	DELOMO Pet Grooming Glove	American Curls with skittish personalities

Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best for Medium-coated American Curls

The Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is perfect for American Curls with medium-length coats. Its fine, bent wires gently detangle and remove loose hair, while the self-cleaning feature makes it easy to remove hair from the brush. This brush is ideal for daily grooming and is gentle enough for sensitive skin.

✓ Gentle on sensitive skin
✓ Effective at removing loose hair
✓ Easy to clean

✕ May not be suitable for very long or very short coats

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KONG ZoomGroom Cat Grooming Brush

Best for Short-coated American Curls

The KONG ZoomGroom Cat Grooming Brush is perfect for American Curls with short coats. Its soft, rubber fingers gently remove loose hair and distribute skin oils, making it ideal for daily grooming. This brush is also great for massaging and relaxing your cat.

✓ Gentle on short coats
✓ Easy to use
✓ Massages and relaxes the cat

✕ May not be effective for long or medium-length coats

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Safari Cat Shedding Comb

Best for Long-haired American Curls

The Safari Cat Shedding Comb is perfect for American Curls with long coats. Its alternating long and short stainless teeth gently detangle and remove loose hair, making it ideal for preventing matting and tangling.

✓ Effective at detangling long coats
✓ Gentle on skin
✓ Reduces shedding

✕ May be too harsh for short or medium-length coats

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Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Brush for Cats

Best for American Curls with matting issues

The Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Brush is perfect for American Curls with matting issues. Its dual-sided design features pins on one side and bristles on the other, making it ideal for detangling and smoothing out coats.

✓ Effective at detangling and smoothing coats
✓ Gentle on skin
✓ Two tools in one

✕ May be too harsh for very sensitive skin

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DELOMO Pet Grooming Glove

Best for American Curls with skittish personalities

The DELOMO Pet Grooming Glove is perfect for American Curls with skittish personalities. Its silicone-tipped fingers gently remove loose hair and distribute skin oils, making it ideal for cats that are sensitive to traditional brushes.

✓ Gentle on sensitive skin
✓ Easy to use
✓ Great for skittish cats

✕ May not be as effective as traditional brushes

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my American Curl?

American Curls require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Brush your cat at least 2-3 times a week, or daily if they have a long coat.

What type of brush is best for my American Curl's coat?

The best brush for your American Curl's coat depends on their individual coat type and length. For short coats, a soft-bristled brush or grooming glove is ideal. For medium-length coats, a slicker brush or pin brush is best. For long coats, a wide-tooth comb or shedding comb is necessary.

Can I use a human brush on my American Curl?

No, it's not recommended to use a human brush on your American Curl. Human brushes are designed for human hair and can be too harsh for your cat's sensitive skin and coat.

How do I prevent matting and tangling in my American Curl's coat?

To prevent matting and tangling in your American Curl's coat, brush them regularly, especially around the ears and neck. Use a detangling spray or conditioner to help work out knots, and avoid using harsh brushes or combs that can cause breakage.

Can brushing help reduce shedding in my American Curl?

Yes, regular brushing can help reduce shedding in your American Curl. Brushing removes loose hair and distributes skin oils, which can help reduce shedding and prevent hairballs.

When it comes to choosing the right brush for your American Curl, consider their individual coat type and length. For medium-coated American Curls, the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is an excellent choice. For short-coated American Curls, the KONG ZoomGroom Cat Grooming Brush is ideal. By selecting the right brush and brushing your cat regularly, you can help keep their coat healthy and strong, and strengthen the bond between you and your cat.

More for your American Curl

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