All You Need to Know About Cat Shows!

Over the years, I have been to many cat shows to see the fancy, fabulous felines. These show cats are so stunning I think they’re all winners! The cats were very patient in their cages, and I got to see many different, and rare, purebred cats. I always wanted to enter one of my Siamese, so I began to research how to join, and discovered any cat is welcome!

Top Tier Shows
The largest cat shows for pedigree cats are hosted by two organizations: CFA (Cat Fanciers Association) and TICA (The International Cat Association), and they are the best of the best, with set standards for purebred, pedigree cats. CFA and TICA are the equivalent of AKC and Westminster dog shows. Each organization has a different reach, in different areas of the country. (If you’ve ever been to a cat show, then you probably know which association has a presence in your area). The cats in these shows have confirmed lineage, have been registered by their breeder, and comply with strict breed regulations. CFA and TICA’s top-of-the-line shows set cat trends, and introduce the newest pedigree breeds, but many smaller shows exist in each state or region.

Entering a Cat Show
Entering a cat show is pretty straightforward; you can visit the website for each location to register, if you meet that show’s criteria. If a purebred, your cat must have pedigree papers, be registered, and meet the age necessary for the class they’re entering. Most shows don’t mind if the cats are spayed or neutered, but they must all be up to date on vaccines, and healthy. All cats must have their claws, but they also must be trimmed. The cats are judged on the standards which are associated with their specific breed, and are usually kept in cages with an assigned number. While some shows inspect the cats in their respective cages, some will bring them out onto a table for a full inspection, or to present the top cats, and best in show.

If you’re considering entering a cat show, your cat needs to be comfortable being in a cage, being around other cats and large groups of people, and being handled. A cat who attacks and growls is not the type of cat who will enjoy being in a show, nor will they likely be awarded points if they can’t be seen or handled properly. If you feel nervous about a large cat show, there are often smaller, lesser known shows that can be found, and may be less overwhelming for kitties’ first event.

House Cat Division
I love my Daphne, and she’s a DSH tortoiseshell, not a purebred, but most shows have classes for our humble house cats, too! Cats of all kinds are welcome, and there’s a category for everyone. Classes and divisions include a household class, where Daphne falls, a kitten class, generally for cats under eight months old, and a veteran class for kitties over seven years old. There is also a new breeds class, so every type of cat is sure to be represented. 

Most cats are judged on breed standards, within their class or division, and then judged on color and coat pattern. Winners in first, second, and third places are usually chosen in each division, and then first, second, and third place for the show overall. Each association runs their show a little differently, and some divide cats into extra classes to separate short or long hair coats, specific patterns, and other small physical differences.

A Fun Experience
I highly recommend going to a cat show just to experience one, and see all of the different breeds and looks. There are usually vendors at cat shows with unique cat gifts, toys, and treats, and also hygiene or grooming tools. I have purchased some unique items at cat shows, and it’s also nice to be able to ask questions or test out products beforehand.

Whether you want to show your cat, or be surrounded by them, a cat show is a fun way to spend the day. You get to see all the breeds that you have heard about and wanted to meet, up close and personal.