How to Groom a Selkirk Rex
By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026
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The Selkirk Rex's beautiful, curly coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. As a large breed with a moderate energy level, they need a grooming routine that balances their need for attention with their laid-back temperament. With their patient and affectionate nature, the Selkirk Rex makes an ideal companion for owners who are willing to invest time in their grooming. A well-groomed Selkirk Rex is not only a joy to behold, but it also helps to prevent common health issues such as skin irritations and matting-related stress. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to inspect their overall health, including their ears, nails, and teeth, which are prone to issues such as polycystic kidney disease, hip dysplasia, and gingivitis. By establishing a regular grooming routine, owners can help their Selkirk Rex lead a happy, healthy life, while also strengthening their bond with their pet.
What to look for
Brushing Frequency
The Selkirk Rex's curly coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Owners should aim to brush their Selkirk Rex at least 2-3 times a week, using a gentle brush or comb specifically designed for curly coats. This will help to distribute skin oils and prevent breakage, while also reducing shedding and preventing hairballs.
Bathing
The Selkirk Rex's coat is prone to oiliness, so regular bathing is essential to keep their coat clean and healthy. Owners should aim to bathe their Selkirk Rex every 2-3 months, using a gentle shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for curly coats. It's also important to avoid over-bathing, as this can strip their coat of its natural oils and lead to dryness and irritation.
Nail Trimming
The Selkirk Rex's nails need to be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth, which can lead to health issues such as arthritis and mobility problems. Owners should aim to trim their Selkirk Rex's nails every 4-6 weeks, using a cat nail trimmer or taking them to a professional groomer. It's also important to handle their paws gently and carefully, as they can be sensitive.
Ear Care
The Selkirk Rex's ears are prone to wax buildup and infections, so regular ear care is essential to keep them clean and healthy. Owners should aim to clean their Selkirk Rex's ears weekly, using a gentle ear cleaner and cotton balls. It's also important to avoid inserting cotton swabs into their ears, as this can cause damage and push wax further into their ear canal.
Grooming Tools
The right grooming tools are essential for keeping the Selkirk Rex's coat clean and healthy. Owners should invest in a good quality brush or comb, a gentle shampoo and conditioner, and a cat nail trimmer. It's also important to choose tools that are specifically designed for curly coats, as these will be gentler and more effective at preventing matting and tangling.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I brush my Selkirk Rex?
The Selkirk Rex's curly coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Owners should aim to brush their Selkirk Rex at least 2-3 times a week, using a gentle brush or comb specifically designed for curly coats.
Can I bathe my Selkirk Rex too frequently?
Yes, over-bathing can strip the Selkirk Rex's coat of its natural oils and lead to dryness and irritation. Owners should aim to bathe their Selkirk Rex every 2-3 months, using a gentle shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for curly coats.
Why is nail trimming important for my Selkirk Rex?
The Selkirk Rex's nails need to be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth, which can lead to health issues such as arthritis and mobility problems. Owners should aim to trim their Selkirk Rex's nails every 4-6 weeks, using a cat nail trimmer or taking them to a professional groomer.
How can I prevent ear infections in my Selkirk Rex?
The Selkirk Rex's ears are prone to wax buildup and infections, so regular ear care is essential to keep them clean and healthy. Owners should aim to clean their Selkirk Rex's ears weekly, using a gentle ear cleaner and cotton balls.
What are the most common health issues in Selkirk Rex cats?
The Selkirk Rex is prone to common health issues such as polycystic kidney disease, hip dysplasia, and gingivitis. Regular grooming and veterinary check-ups can help to identify these issues early on, and prevent more serious health problems from developing.
By following a regular grooming routine that takes into account the Selkirk Rex's unique curly coat and gentle nature, owners can help their pet lead a happy, healthy life. The most important priority for this breed is to establish a consistent grooming schedule that balances their need for attention with their laid-back temperament, and to choose grooming tools that are specifically designed for curly coats. With patience, care, and attention to detail, the Selkirk Rex can thrive and become a beloved companion for years to come.
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