Complete Guide to Showing Your Cat: Tips for Beginners
If you've ever considered showcasing one of your feline companions at a cat show, you're in for a delightful hobby that combines passion with community. Unlike many dog shows, cat exhibitions have their own unique rules, allowing for more inclusivity. For instance, cats that have been neutered, older kittens, and even so-called 'pet quality' pedigree cats—those that may not meet strict breed standards—can participate alongside non-pedigree companions. Showing can be a joyful way to meet like-minded cat enthusiasts and celebrate your pet, even if it’s not a path to significant financial gain.
Before jumping in, why not visit a few shows to soak up the atmosphere and chat with experienced exhibitors and breeders? They'll be happy to share insights about breeds and the showing process. In the UK, most cat shows are licensed and organised by clubs affiliated with the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), akin to the Kennel Club for dogs. The GCCF website offers extensive information, including a calendar of upcoming shows published about three months in advance, with entry deadlines roughly one month before each event. Shows happen almost every weekend, often on Saturdays, occasionally Sundays, with some open to all breeds and others specialising in particular breeds or groups. For pedigree cats shown at GCCF-licensed events, registration with the GCCF is a must, though 'Household Pets' currently are exempt.
The feline equivalent to Crufts—Britain's most renowned dog show—is the Supreme Cat Show, held every November at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre. It offers an excellent day out to see many breeds and browse a variety of pet-related stalls.
Besides GCCF shows, various smaller competitions are staged by clubs linked to The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe), known in the UK as Felis Britannica (FB). Each organisation has distinct show rules available on their websites. Note that GCCF permits only one show entry for a registered cat within any 13-day span. If you plan to also exhibit at TICA or FB shows, notifying GCCF for each entry is required.
Preparing Your Cat for the Show
Consider your cat's temperament carefully. Does it enjoy being handled by several judges and sitting calmly in a show pen? Most cats adapt well and appreciate the attention, but it's wise to choose a first show close to home. Ideally, begin showing kittens from 14 weeks old, helping them acclimatise smoothly.
For GCCF shows, exhibitors need to provide plain white blankets, litter trays, and food and water bowls to ensure no visual bias; your cat will be identified by a pen number, not their name, although full details are in the show catalogue. Many shows offer equipment for sale if you'd rather not buy beforehand. Bringing a friend to your first visit to a show can make the experience easier.
Joining Cat Clubs and Community Support
Joining local cat clubs is invaluable for beginners. A GCCF-affiliated club in your area can connect you with fellow enthusiasts, while breed-specific clubs offer specialised knowledge. Membership fees typically range from £5 for individual or £8 for joint memberships. Benefits include discounted show entry fees, access to exclusive classes, and qualification for members-only awards.
Health and Grooming Standards
It's essential that your cat is in excellent health for showing. Meticulous grooming is key—clean eyes, nose, and ears, and trimmed claw tips using specialist clippers. At GCCF events and several other associations’ shows, a veterinary check-up ('vetting in') ensures each cat is healthy and appropriately grown for their breed before entering the show hall.
Bald patches or missing fur could indicate underlying health concerns and should be addressed before entering a show. Breed-specific faults, such as tail kinks, could disqualify your cat; contacting your breed club secretary can clarify any worries. Vaccinations must be current and documented, which you'll need to present at GCCF shows to safeguard all participants.
Understanding Judging Criteria and Categories
Pedigree cats described as 'show quality' are judged under a 'Standard of Points' unique to each breed. Judges assess body shape ("type"), eye shape and colour, coat quality and colour, and tail length. Exhibits compete within their classes and progress to Best of Breed and possibly Best in Show awards.
If your pedigree cat is considered 'pet quality', it may still compete in Household Pet sections at most shows, judged on condition, temperament, and presentation. These sections often include fun awards like Best Groomed or Most Appealing Expression, alongside a household Best in Show prize.
Enjoying the Experience
At GCCF shows, exhibitors typically cannot remain in the main hall during breed judging to allow judges full movement, though this restriction doesn't apply to TICA or FB shows. However, cafés and common areas provide excellent opportunities to relax and chat with other cat lovers.
Whether you're an experienced exhibitor or a curious newcomer, showing your cat offers a rewarding day socially and a chance to highlight your pet's unique personality and qualities. Win or lose, bringing home your beloved cat after an enjoyable day is the real prize.
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