Cat Show Titles and Rosettes Explained: Your 2025 Guide

Perhaps you've admired the beautiful rosettes and certificates adorning the pens of pedigree cats at a cat show. Maybe you've considered showing your own cat but found the various titles like "Champion," "Grand Premier," or "Olympian" confusing. This comprehensive guide will break down these titles and the rosettes awarded, focused mainly on the system used by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in the UK, current as of 2025.

Awards for Entire (Unneutered) Cats

Entire cats are judged separately from neutered cats. These cats are divided by breed and often further by colour. Each enters a specific class — for example, "Brown Tabby Maine Coon" or "White Blue-eyed Persian," with males and females judged separately.

Judges evaluate each cat against breed standards awarding points. Cats placing first, second, or third receive a rosette accordingly. A first-place win typically awards a Champion certificate. Securing three Champion certificates at three separate shows under different judges grants a cat the prestigious title of Champion.

Champion cats then compete in classes against other Champions. Winning at this level results in a Grand Champion rosette and certificate; again, three wins under different judges result in the Grand Champion title. Next, successful Grand Champions may advance to the Imperial Grand Champion level by winning five times. The journey reflects a cat’s consistent adherence to breed standards and exemplary qualities.

The most elite level now includes Olympian classes where Imperial Grand Champions across all breeds compete. Five wins earn a Bronze Olympian title; an additional five wins yield Silver, and another five secure Gold Olympian status. These achievements require different judges and meet show restrictions but represent the pinnacle of show cat success. Titles such as "Gold Olympian Imperial Grand Champion" become part of the cat’s official registered name, a mark of enduring excellence. Few cats reach this level, as the process can take years even for outstanding animals.

Awards for Neutered Cats

Neutered cats follow a parallel title progression, but with "Premier" replacing "Champion" in the titles. Thus, neutered cats start gaining certificates toward Premier, progressing to Grand Premier, Imperial Grand Premier, and potentially Gold Olympian Imperial Grand Premier status, mirroring the entire cats’ system.

Recognition for Non-Pedigree Cats

Non-pedigree cats – often referred to as "Household Pets" or "Pedigree Pets" (the latter having some pedigree background but not suitable for full pedigree classes) – are also welcomed in shows. These cats are judged on presentation and temperament without a detailed Standard of Points. Non-pedigree titles follow a similar structure but use "Master Cat" instead of Champion or Premier. Titles range from Master Cat up to Gold Olympian Imperial Grand Master Cat for those demonstrated to be particularly elegant and well-behaved companions.

Other Show Awards and Considerations

Kittens under nine months can earn rosettes in their classes but are not awarded titles until they mature into adult classes. A cat’s status can restart if neutered after gaining titles as an entire cat; for instance, they would then compete in Neuter classes without previous titles counting towards their new progression.

Shows also award "Best of Breed" ("Best of Colour" for non-pedigrees), "Best of Variety" (e.g., Persians, British Shorthairs), and ultimately "Best in Show" as the highest accolade. Household Pets and Pedigree Pets have their own corresponding best awards.

Many shows feature fun or miscellaneous classes such as "Cat with the Longest Whiskers" or "Judge’s Favourite Cat," which do not impact titles but add enjoyment and opportunities to win rosettes or place cards. These events welcome new participants and create a community spirit.

Showing Your Cat: Tips for Beginners

If you're new to showing cats, don’t hesitate to ask experienced exhibitors or the Show Manager about classification and judging procedures. The cat show community is usually very welcoming and supportive to newcomers. Above all, remember that while titles and rosettes are wonderful achievements, your cat's health, happiness, and companionship are the most important things.

Showing your cat responsibly means maintaining excellent care, ensuring your cat’s welfare and stress-free experience at shows, and supporting ethical breeding and pet ownership.

In summary, cat show titles and rosettes signify a cat’s journey through competitive classes based on breed standards, with various awards that reflect achievement and quality. Whether you aspire to show a precious family companion or embark on the competitive show circuit, this guide will help you understand the fascinating world of cat exhibitions in 2025.