A Selkirk Rex is an easygoing cat to live with. Here’s how to help your new kitten settle in and keep that wonderful curly coat looking its best.
The first days at home
- Start your kitten in one quiet room with food, water, a litter box, a bed and a few toys, then let them explore the rest of the house as they gain confidence.
- Keep your kitten on the same food and litter they use here, at least to start. Make any change gradually.
- Introduce other pets slowly, with short supervised visits.
- Take your kitten to your own veterinarian within 5 days. This is required by our health guarantee.
- Activate the Trupanion pet insurance that comes with your kitten.
[PLACEHOLDER: what food and litter do your kittens use? Do they go home with a starter kit?]
Grooming the curly coat
Selkirk Rex do shed, and both longhairs and shorthairs need some help keeping their coats tidy.
- Comb gently once or twice a week with a wide-toothed comb. Longhairs may need a little more. Avoid heavy brushing, which can pull the curls straight.
- An occasional bath brings the curls back. Towel dry gently and let the coat air dry rather than blow drying.
- Check the ears weekly and wipe away any wax with an ear cleaner made for cats.
- Trim the claws every week or two. Declawing is never allowed.
Don’t worry if your kitten’s curls loosen or seem to disappear for a while. A Selkirk’s coat changes as they grow, and the full curly coat can take up to two years to develop.
Health
- Follow your veterinarian’s schedule for booster vaccinations.
- Keep your cat indoors. It is part of our contract and keeps them safe from traffic, predators and disease.
- Contact us first about any health or behavior concerns. We’re here to help for your cat’s whole life.
[PLACEHOLDER: any other advice for new families, e.g. favorite toys, scratching posts, or things to avoid?]
Questions? Send us a message.