Cat Show Judging Explained: How It Works and What to Expect

Showing your cat for the first time may feel daunting, but understanding the judging process can make it an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Whether your cat is a pedigree or a household pet, knowing how judges assess each feline helps you prepare effectively.

How Are Cats Judged at Shows?

Judging depends greatly on whether your cat is a pedigree or a household pet. For pedigree cats, each breed has a Standard of Points that details physical attributes expected, each assigned a value adding up to 100 points. For example, the Maine Coon standard awards up to 35 points for head features such as shape, muzzle, and bite. Judges evaluate body, coat, colour, and pattern similarly. Temperament and presentation also significantly influence scores; a well-groomed, calm cat often performs better.

Household pets lack official breed standards and are judged mostly on presentation and temperament. Some judges include the state of the cat's blanket and accessories in the presentation evaluation, so all show items should be immaculate to impress.

Step-by-Step: What Happens During Judging?

At most UK shows organised by bodies like the GCCF, the sequence generally unfolds as follows:

1. Arrival and Setup: You have time to settle your cat in his pen, feed him, and ensure he is comfortable.
2. Judging Period: Competitors leave the hall during judging, which usually lasts two to three hours. Judges, accompanied by stewards, remove each cat and carefully assess them against the breed standards or temperament criteria.
3. Awarding Placements: Judges rank cats as First, Second, and Third, and may award titles or certificates based on performance.
4. Side Classes and Titles: Later in the day, side classes are judged more informally, followed by assessments for Best of Variety and Best in Show among breed winners.

For shows following different systems, like TICA or FIFe, judging styles vary; for instance, at the Supreme Cat Show, cats are judged in rings separate from their pens, often with public viewing.

Who Judges Your Cat?

Main class pedigree judges are highly trained experts in their breeds, having undergone rigorous education and assessment. Maine Coon judges, for example, understand every detail of the breed’s standard. Side classes and kittens may be judged by probationers still qualifying as full judges. Household pets are judged more informally, sometimes by experienced show participants rather than formally qualified judges.

Can You Know How Your Cat Was Judged?

Yes, you can. The most official and detailed feedback comes from judge reports posted on the GCCF website within 28 days of the show. These reports offer invaluable insights into your cat’s strong points and where improvements might help. Alternatively, speaking directly to the judge on the show day—after judging is complete—is often encouraged and can provide friendly, helpful advice. Many exhibitors find this interaction eye-opening, turning show experiences into learning opportunities for future success.

Tips for New Exhibitors

• Keep a record of which judges have evaluated your cat to ensure a variety of certificates for titles.
• Patience is key—judging is subjective and personal preferences can influence placements.
• Maintain your cat’s grooming, presentation, and calm temperament for the best impression.
• Engage with the cat show community; friendly advice from judges and fellow exhibitors is invaluable.

Summary and Next Steps

Understanding cat show judging empowers you to showcase your cat confidently. With knowledge of breed standards, judging procedures, and how to receive feedback, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy the show world. Remember that showing is as much about fun and community as winning. So prepare well, embrace the learning curve, and start sharing your cat’s unique qualities in this wonderful arena.