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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.
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While we should always research breeds before we adopt a cat, the Bengal is one that is crucial to research. Read online, talk to current owners, and spend time with a Bengal before you commit to bringing one home. A mix of Asian Leopard, and a tabby cat, Bengals can have a wild streak, and because of their wild nature, they are not a good fit for every home. Get all of the details and advice you need below!  Creation of Bengals
Asian Leopard cats, “felis bengalensis,” have been hunted for their exotic coats, so cat breeder Jean Mill decided to breed a domestic cat with the Asian Leopard to help save the species, and created the Bengal. This new breed protected Asian Leopard cats because they were no longer considered exotic, so their cubs would not be taken and sold. Mill dabbled in breeding Bengals in the early 1960s, but the Bengals that we know today came primarily from her breeding efforts in the early 1980s. She created the perfect combination of cat: the personality of a domestic house cat with the stunning, exotic looks of an Asian Leopard cat. By the late 1980s to early 1990s, Bengals were officially recognized by American cat associations, and recognized globally shortly after. Since Bengals originated from the wild Asian Leopard cat, they have been bred to eliminate the wild cat personality. Many Bengals now are considered an F5, which means they are five generations away from the Asian Leopard cat. Be sure to ask your breeder what level they have, so you know how many generations from their wild relatives your Bengal will be. The further away from the Asian Leopard they are, the more domesticated they are. Energetic Personalities Because of their genetic makeup, you can expect a kitty who loves to jump and climb, and they are very active! Bengals are highly intelligent cats, and need a lot of human interaction. They tend to attach to their owners, and require lots of one-on-one time. Bengals have a very distinct meow, or yowl, and know how to use it; they are very vocal! They love attention, and if they don’t get enough, they can become extremely destructive in order to get it. This is when the expertise of a breeder is vital for a calm kitty, or one that can test your time and energy limits. Wild Cat Looks A Bengal’s coat is stunning, to say the least, as are their green eyes. Their eyes are always bright green or yellow, which has a dramatic effect against their dark, sleek fur. The fur on their coats is short and silky, with a gorgeous shine, but they are not hypoallergenic cats. Coat patterns tend to be a marbled or swirling look, but many Bengals are also spotted. Bengal's colors come in a range of brown, black, and ivory, but there have been new variations that come in an almost solid black. There is also now a Snow Bengal, which is an ivory-toned Bengal, and they are absolutely beautiful. Males are typically a medium build, while females usually have a smaller, thinner frame. Their maximum weight is about 15lbs, and their bodies are normally muscular. A Bengal’s life span averages around 15 years, but they tend to have health issues that range from eye issues to heart problems. Speaking to your veterinarian before buying a Bengal could save you costly vet bills. Purchasing Interested in having a Bengal companion? Do your research to find a reputable breeder, and expect to pay around $2500 or more. There are approximately 2500 Bengal breeders in the USA, and all good breeders should provide proper breed paperwork, and information on the cat’s lineage. Also, check your state and local laws, because some areas have restrictions. NYC, for instance, has outlawed Bengals; it is illegal to own one in the City. New York State law, however, stipulates that your Bengal must be a F5, and registered with the ICA (The International Cat Association) or CFA (Cat Fanciers’ Association). Owning a bengal is not for everyone, and because of their high attachment to their owners, excessive energy demands, and potentially destructive behaviors, we do not board Bengals at Rock the Cat Spa. Many kennels will not accept this breed. Having a safe place to board, or a friend to watch them, is important before buying a Bengal, so you know that you can sometimes be away from home. While they are absolutely beautiful, unique cats, make sure this breed is the right fit for you, your family, and your lifestyle. |
AuthorWhen Cari has some free time from all the kitties, she likes to share her knowledge of all things cat in this bi-monthly blog. Enjoy the read! Archives
June 2024
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