Showing Your Cat

Most cat shows offer opportunities not only for pedigreed cats, but also for household pets as well. For complete information, you'll want to check the websites of the three leading registries for purebred cats the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA), the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), and The International Cat Association (TICA). The following is some general information that will help you decide if a cat show is right for you and your pet.

Depending on the show in question, your cat may be eligible to compete as a cat, kitten, alter or household pet. The last category household pet is essentially a beauty contest, while the other categories have specific standards that are predetermined by the registry.

In most cases, if youre showing an adult cat, expect a requirement that your cat be spayed or neutered. Pedigreed cats need not be altered (spayed or neutered) unless theyre being entered in the alter class. Declawed cats are generally not shown.

One of the most important qualities your cat must have to be a show cat is the right temperament and personality. Show cats should enjoy being on display, and they should be comfortable being in the ring. They should also be comfortable when being handled by a number of different people. A cat that growls or shows her teeth when being introduced to new people isnt a good candidate.

If your cat has a beautiful temperament to go along with her beautiful looks, then you're ready to move forward. Visit the websites of the three largest registries and find out when cat shows are being held in your area. When youve chosen the show that best fits your needs, fill out your paperwork and send it in as soon as possible. Youll generally need to complete an entry form and provide medical information on your pet. The registry website will tell you when you should receive confirmation of your entry.

Before the show, youll want to groom your cat. In fact, you may want to start extra grooming sessions several weeks in advance of the show for best results. Make sure your cat is bathed and brushed, and see that she has a mani/pedi to keep her nails looking good.

In addition, make sure that you have a cat carrier that will easily accommodate your pet and make or purchase cage curtains to give your cat some much-needed privacy at the show.

When you arrive at the show, check in and take your pet to the designated location. Set up your cage and curtains, and calm your cat so that she feels comfortable in this new situation. Then, take a look at the schedule to find out when youll be competing.

At most shows, you can ask a master clerk to assign you a mentor. These seasoned veterans are happy to help first time show attendees, and will help you learn how to show your cat and ease your nerves as well.

Your cat will be judged anywhere from four to eight times, which means going through four to eight rings. A judge from each ring will give your cat a score based on her temperament and looks. At the end of the day, the cat with the highest score for each ring wins a rosette and bragging rights, of course.