Cat Show Awards: Your 2026 Guide
Cat shows can be confusing, especially for newcomers. Learning the terminology of titles and rosettes awarded at these events will help you better appreciate the achievements of the cats and their breeders. This guide focuses on key terms and how cat show awards work in the UK.
Challenge Certificates
At UK Open Shows, Championship Certificates (CC) are awarded to the Best of Breed in each class. A cat must earn three CCs under three different judges to achieve Champion status. This is usually achieved over several shows.
Premier Certificates
Premier Certificates (PC) are the neutered equivalent of Challenge Certificates, awarded to the best neuter in each class at Championship shows. A neutered cat must earn three PCs under three different judges to become a Premier. Gaining this title is a significant achievement for neuters, recognising their quality and temperament without the breeding element.
Grand Certificates
Grand Certificates (GC) are awarded at specific Grand Shows to Champions and Premiers. A Champion that earns three Grand Certificates under different judges achieves Grand Champion status, and a Premier earns Grand Premier. These titles represent a higher tier of excellence in cat showing.
Imperial Certificates
Imperial Certificates are the highest tier of certificates in UK cat showing. An Imperial Grand Champion earns certificates by competing at the Supreme Cat Show or selected special shows. This title is rare and represents the pinnacle of competitive cat showing.
Best in Show
Best in Show is awarded to the top-ranked cat at a show after winning its class and section. The award may vary per show society, but it typically represents the highest honour at a single event and is a prestigious accolade for the cat and its owner.
Classes at Cat Shows
Each show organises cats into specific classes based on breed, colour, and sex. Cats compete within their specific breed class, and judges evaluate them against the official breed standard. For example, cats compete in classes like “Brown Tabby Maine Coon” or “White Blue-eyed Persian,” with males and females judged separately. Judges evaluate each cat against breed standards set by the GCCF and award the Best of Breed and later, Best in Show.
Rosettes
Rosettes are colourful ribbon awards given at cat shows to recognise the achievements of competing cats. They are typically awarded for placing in classes, such as First, Second, or Third place, as well as for special awards like Best of Breed, Best in Show, or Best Neuter. The design and colour of rosettes may vary by show society, but they are always significant marks of achievement for the cats and their owners. At larger national shows, such as the Supreme Cat Show, rosettes are particularly prestigious, signifying national-level competition success.
The Supreme Cat Show
The Supreme Cat Show is one of the most prestigious cat shows in the UK, hosted by the GCCF. At this show, only cats that have achieved Champion, Premier, or higher status can enter. Cats compete for the title of Supreme Exhibit, with separate categories for adult cats, neuters, and kittens, culminating in an overall Supreme Exhibit title. Imperial Certificates are also awarded here.
Tips for Understanding Cat Show Judging
Understanding how cats are judged can enhance your appreciation of cat shows. Key points include:
- Judging is done against each breed's official standard, not against other breeds
- Each show may have different award structures depending on the organising body, usually GCCF or TICA in the UK
- Awards such as Challenge Certificates require earning them from multiple judges, ensuring consistency of quality
- Cats must meet health and vaccination requirements to enter shows
Exploring cat show titles and rosettes gives you a deeper insight into the world of competitive cat showing. Understanding these awards helps visitors and newcomers appreciate the dedication and work involved in breeding and showing cats at the highest level.
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