Which Pedigree Cats Should Not Be Shown?

This article is intended for anyone considering showing their pedigree cat but unsure if it is the right choice. While any pedigree cat can technically be entered in a show, certain cats should not be shown for their own wellbeing and the welfare of others involved. Others might be better suited to different types of showing classes. Let's first explore which cats really should not be shown.

Cats Which You Should Not Show

Cat shows can be quite stressful events for many cats. They may require preparation such as grooming and bathing, followed by travelling, often over long distances, in a carrier. The cat spends much of the day in a pen, handled by various people and viewed by many others, amid crowds and unfamiliar noise. While some cats, especially those used to shows from kittenhood, may enjoy this experience, others find it frightening and distressing.

If your cat is shy, timid, or nervous around people, it may not be suitable for showing. It is sensible to try one or two shows to see how your cat adapts, but if it appears unhappy, tries to hide all day, or becomes aggressive by hissing or lashing out, it is kinder and safer not to take them to further shows. Cats prone to stress-induced behaviours or car sickness should also be carefully considered; local shows may be an alternative in such cases.

Grooming sessions should be short and gentle for anxious cats, including clipping claws over several short sessions. If the process causes distress, it's best to leave your cat at home and appreciate their beauty in a less pressured environment.

Cats Which You Might Need to Show Differently

Even if your cat has an ideal temperament for showing—allowing bathing and handling with a sociable nature—it is vital to consider breed standards. Each breed has a specific Standard of Points detailing the ideal appearance, including shape, coat colour, and fur type. Judges compare cats to these standards, and certain faults can result in withholding of awards.

Examples of faults leading to withholding include overshot or undershot jaws, incorrect nose shape, or white colouration in forbidden areas. Showing a cat with such faults in pedigree classes often results in disappointment despite temperament or appearance. A better option might be to enter them in Pedigree Pet classes, which consider presentation and temperament without strict adherence to breed specifications.

Showing Pedigree Pets

The Pedigree Pet classes cater to cats with pedigree appearance but who are not eligible for traditional pedigree classes due to faults, lack of official papers, or being half-pedigree. These classes fall under the Household Pet category and are judged similarly to pedigree cats but focus only on grooming and temperament without breed standards.

In these classes, a cat's breed does not impact judging, with cats described simply by coat type and colour, for example, ‘red tabby longhair.’ Pedigree Pets can earn titles such as Master Cat, Grand Master Cat, and Imperial Grand Master Cat, paralleling those available to pedigreed cats. They may also compete in Olympian classes separately.

Ethical and Welfare Considerations

It is important to consider the health and welfare of your cat before deciding to show them. Some pedigree breeds, especially those bred for extreme features like flat faces (e.g., Persians), can suffer from health problems including breathing difficulties, eye conditions, dental issues, and skin infections. Many welfare organisations in the UK advise against supporting the showing and breeding of such cats until breeding practices improve health outcomes.

Always prioritise your cat’s wellbeing. If showing causes stress or discomfort, enjoying your cat at home can bring just as much joy without the risks associated with the show environment.

Other Important Points

You may switch your cat between Pedigree and Pedigree Pet classes, but specific rules govern how often this change can happen, so changing categories for every show is not permitted. The information here refers mainly to GCCF shows; other organisations like TICA and FIFe have different categories and awards which you should check if you plan to show with them.

Remember - responsible showing means respecting your cat’s comfort and temperament. Only show your cat if it enjoys the experience.

Summary

• Do not show cats that are shy, stressed, aggressive, or dislike travel and grooming.
• Cats with disqualifying breed faults or no official pedigree may be better suited to Pedigree Pet classes.
• Consider your cat’s health and welfare before deciding to show, especially with breeds prone to conformation-related health issues.
• Respect show rules regarding class changes and breed standards.
• Prioritise your cat’s happiness at shows or enjoy their company at home if showing is unsuitable.