Hints On Showing Rex Cats: Expert Tips for Success

So you have acquired a Devon Rex, Cornish Rex, LaPerm, or Selkirk Rex cat, or perhaps a rarer variety, and you would like to start showing it in cat competitions. While showing Rex cats is fundamentally similar to showing other breeds, there are a few breed-specific points worth knowing to prepare and present your cat successfully. This guide will walk you through key steps for entering, grooming, and enjoying show day with your Rex cat, promoting responsible care and ethical participation.

Finding the Right Class: Filling in the Show Entry Form

When entering your Rex cat in a show, the first challenge can be to locate where the breed fits in the schedule. Devon Rex, Cornish Rex, and LaPerm cats are entered in the Foreign Shorthair category. This is because, despite some breeds originating in the UK, they have distinctive coat and body types that show organisers group separately. Conversely, Selkirk Rex cats, with their often longer hair, are classed among the British Shorthairs, even though they originated in the USA.

Knowing the right place to enter your cat ensures your application is accepted and your pet competes against appropriate peers, increasing your chance of success and enjoyment.

Preparation: Grooming Your Rex Cat for the Show

Rex cats have unique curly or wavy coats growing from abnormal follicles, making their fur softer, lighter, and sometimes more delicate than typical cats. Their coats can be prone to greasiness or wax buildup, so gentle, careful grooming tailored to the breed is critical.

Devon Rex: This breed’s coat is generally low-maintenance if in good condition. A bath to remove natural oils can enhance appearance, but over-grooming should be avoided to prevent hair damage. Grooming with a soft glove or by hand once dried is usually sufficient.

Cornish Rex: Known for its very fine, soft curls, the Cornish Rex benefits from a specialised "bran bath". Warm dry bran is massaged into the coat and brushed out to lift the waves and reduce limpness that water baths can cause. Polishing gently with silk or chamois leather will enhance the shine and curl definition.

LaPerm: This breed has a curly coat that rarely mats if groomed regularly. Combing with a revolving-tooth comb helps preserve curls without straightening. Light misting with water or fluffing with damp fingers before showing will set the curls nicely. After bathing, air drying is best; avoid blow dryers that cause frizz.

Selkirk Rex: With a dense and plush coat, the Selkirk Rex should be combed multiple times weekly to prevent tangles and remove shedding hair. Use a moisturising shampoo for baths and allow the cat to air dry in a warm, draft-free space. Some owners recommend blow drying, but this can alter the coat’s natural appearance, so experiment beforehand to find what suits your cat best.

Show Day: Managing Your Rex Cat's Temperament

Rex cats are known for their intelligence and activity levels but differ in temperament among breeds. Understanding your cat’s personality ensures a calm, happy experience.

Devon and Cornish Rexes are lively and curious, often enjoying gentle play. Be prepared to bring safe toys to keep your cat entertained during wait times to prevent boredom or stress. Many owners find that allowing a kitten a few supervised play sessions with toys like small mice during quieter moments improves their mood greatly.

LaPerm cats are usually affectionate and enjoy human attention, often being content while handled or cuddled during the show.

Selkirk Rex cats are generally more relaxed and laid-back, often coping well with the busy show environment.

Responsible Ownership and Ethical Showing

Always ensure your Rex cat’s health and wellbeing come first. Regular veterinary checks, responsible breeding, and humane grooming routines are essential. Avoid over-handling or stressing your cat and keep shows a positive experience. Remember, every show is an opportunity to learn and enjoy your cat’s unique charm rather than just winning rosettes.

Final Thoughts

Showing Rex cats can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience if approached with knowledge, preparation, and care. Enter the proper class, groom gently yet thoroughly, manage your cat's temperament wisely, and focus on responsible, ethical participation. Good luck, and may you and your Rex cat have many happy show days!