How to prepare a cat for an exhibition: necessary conditions, as well as nuances of holding events

What kind of exhibitions are there?

Each association has its own rules and nuances for holding exhibitions, which cat breeders should familiarize themselves with in advance. Events are divided by type of judging. Each system also has its own conditions for obtaining a title and form of membership. Main types of exhibitions:

• American;
• British;
• European.

Each cat show is held according to a specific system.

In rare cases, you can find a mixed system. In order to understand what type of event is suitable in this case, it is necessary to delve into the details of each type of exhibition. The purpose of the system is to determine whether the pet meets the breed standard. This is important for a breeder if he plans to breed a certain type of cat. At the same time, experts evaluate the pet according to a number of parameters that it must meet.

For an animal, an exhibition is a lot of stress, so it is important to carefully prepare the cat for the upcoming event, especially if the animal never leaves the house and is afraid of strangers.

European system

The European version involves individual judging, in which everything is recorded in writing. For these purposes, the appraiser is provided with a special form with characteristics, which must be filled out after examining the pet. The cat is brought to the judge by a trained person, not the owner himself. This rule allows you to maintain anonymity. This system can protect the animal from a number of infections, since after each pet the table is wiped with disinfectants, and the appraiser treats his hands with an antiseptic.

At the end of the event, the cat's owner takes the ratings and description of the breed, which remain in his hands. Registration is carried out only by club members who are logged into the system. Title registration is also carried out only for those who have joined the community. During the evaluation of the cat, only an assistant is allowed next to the judge. Third parties excluded. To receive a certain title, a cat must be evaluated by three judges. The participant must be at least three months old to qualify for the award.

At the end of the exhibition, the cat can receive an honorary title

In order to receive a high title, you need to participate in events that are held in different countries. List of European subsystems:

• WCF - the cat must receive an assessment, as well as honorary titles at the end of the event, if available, the corresponding certificate can be issued;
• FIFe - includes the “best in color” competition, following which the animal can take part in “Best in show” - an honorary competition for those who have succeeded in other categories;
• FARUS - the subsystem is similar in rules to WCF, but has some characteristics of the American system - ring competition;
• MFA - only animals of the same breed, color, sex and show class can compete;
• WACC - the breed is assessed according to certain categories, the cat can receive the title “World Champion” or “European Champions”;
• OFA - this subsystem is similar to all of those listed, it implies strict veterinary control, the assessment can be made by one judge or several at once.

The European system is the most common of all and requires a mandatory fee for participation.

American

This system provides for passing the examination in one day, which greatly simplifies the task compared to the European type of event. Animals that are at least four months old are allowed to participate. Registration can take place directly, without involving the club. A special feature of this system is the assessment of a group of cats at once. In addition to the judges, anyone can attend.

Exhibitions according to the American system are like a performance, the participants of which can be followed by everyone

The group of pets for evaluation must consist of representatives of the same breed and color. The description of the animal, unlike the European system, is oral. In addition, all titles can be closed in one region, which is also very convenient for the breeder. Subtypes of the American system:

• CFA - there is a special coding system for the animal’s breed, and the gender and genetics of the pet are also taken into account;
• TICA - documents for participation can be submitted by e-mail, there is no title division (classified depending on age);
• ICU - there is a separate class for neutered pets, the color of the ribbon (award) means what place the pet took in the competition;
• WCA - almost identical to the CFA system, it is preferable for those breeders who intend to sell pets abroad;
• RUI is an almost identical system to the ones listed above. Several judges evaluate the animals at once, and everyone who wishes follows the progress of the competition. However, if the pet is aggressive, it will be disqualified;
• The CFF is one of the oldest American systems, the rules of which are quite strict, but this reduces the risk of unfair judging. Each expert selects the 10 best pets in his ring.

The American system is more spectacular, reminiscent of a show, which is why many breeders prefer it. However, for fearful and irritable pets, such a competition will be a real test.

British

To participate in an event using the British system, you must be a member of one of the clubs. The same algorithm is used to design the animal. During the exhibition, all pets are placed in separate cages, and the breeders leave the hall. The appraiser, together with an assistant, makes a description of the breeds, taking into account even the slightest discrepancies. The breeder receives the conclusion in writing on the second day after the event.

The British show system involves placing cats in separate cages

Judges do not evaluate groups of pets, but individual breeds. After the examination, the hall is opened to everyone. The award ceremony takes place on stage.

The British system is used very rarely and is less in demand compared to the European and American ones.

Grooming

On the day of the exhibition they do grooming. The goal is to give the coat volume and shine, protect it from electrification and pollution, and make the pet appear in ideal form.

In the morning, the cat is combed against the grain, having previously been treated with an antistatic agent, exhibition foam or powder.

As a result, the animal’s fur should be soft to the touch and fall off gently.

Important! It must be remembered that excessive coloring and the use of powder on the animal will result in disqualification.

After the exhibition, it is necessary to bathe the cat again to wash off all the drugs from it.

Classes, titles and awards - table

Drying

First, the cat must be blotted with a towel, treated with an antistatic agent and dried with a hairdryer, while styling it so that the fur does not get tangled and gets volume.

1. Paws. Using a brush, the wool is lifted from the bottom up, drying the base of the coat.
2. Collar. The fur must be pulled back with a comb to make it straight and smooth.
3. Muzzle.
4. Back. Comb against the grain.
5. Pants and belly. The wool is pulled down.

Light wool is powdered to avoid contamination, then the excess is blown out with a hairdryer.

It is recommended to drop Visine into the animal's eyes - this will relieve irritation.

Conditions of participation in the exhibition

To participate in the exhibition, you need to fulfill certain conditions, as well as prepare the necessary documents. The animal’s health status and age must be taken into account. In addition, you need to be prepared for the fact that you will have to contribute a certain amount to participate in the competition. The cost depends on the competition system and additional nuances that should be clarified with the organizer.

Pet age

In order to take part in the exhibition, the kitten must be over 3-4 months old (depending on the system). If the pet is younger than the stated age, then it can be counted as part of the litter and must be with its mother. There is no set upper limit. If desired, older cats can also participate in the competition, but such pets have less chance of winning.

Kittens under 3–4 months are not allowed to participate in the competition.

If you plan to breed the breed in the future, it is recommended to take an animal older than 10 months to the exhibition.

Health status

Before the competition, your pet must be vaccinated against rabies, rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia and calicivirosis. This should be done no later than 4 weeks and no earlier than 12 months before the start. Deworming is a prerequisite. For this purpose, the animal must be given anti-worm medication a month before the event.

Before the start of the competition, cats and female cats must be vaccinated

Cats with intact skin and coat are allowed to participate. If the pet is injured, then you should refrain from such an event. The same applies to animals with congenital defects: strabismus, blindness, cleft lip, etc. Pregnant and lactating pets can participate in the event, but some conditions are also provided for them.

A pregnant cat can participate in the competition, but only at the initial stage

Firstly, the cat must have no obvious signs of lactation (large and swollen nipples). Theoretically, the pet will be admitted to the competition, but will lose points if this condition is neglected. Participation in competitions is possible only in the early stages of pregnancy, when the animal’s belly is invisible. Spayed and neutered pets are allowed only to certain exhibition classes provided for in this case.

Another important point to pay attention to is the behavior of your furry friend. If the cat does not have a calm disposition, then it is not recommended to take part in the exhibition, since the pet can be disqualified for hissing, biting and fighting with competition participants.

An aggressive pet may be disqualified

Attention! Cats with injuries, lameness or other external defects cannot participate in the exhibition.

Documents that will be required

Documents that need to be prepared:

1. Vet passport. Such a document is an admission to the exhibition and must contain information about all vaccinations of the animal.
2. Help No. 1. This document contains information about the sanitary conditions of the area of ​​residence. Such a certificate will be required to participate in a competition held in another region, city or country.
3. Help No. 4. This paper is issued by a doctor on the basis of a veterinary passport and after examining the pet. This is a kind of conclusion about the health of the animal.
4. Application for participation. It must be submitted in advance, at least a month in advance. You need to find out about registration deadlines directly by phone or on the organizer’s official website.

To participate in the exhibition you will need a veterinary passport

Additionally, it is recommended to prepare a kitten purchase and sale agreement, birth certificate and pedigree. Organizers may request such documents. Additional information that may be required must be clarified in advance to avoid getting into an awkward situation.

the washing up

Preparing for a cat show begins with bathing, but first you need to:

• comb with a sparse comb to rid the cover of dead hairs;
• trim claws;
• clean the inside of the ears;
• if the standard allows, pluck the hair on the ears from above;
• Place cotton balls in your ears.

When bathing, the cat should have support under its feet.

Washing takes place in 5 stages:

1. Using products for deep cleaning of fur, thoroughly soap the animal. Particular attention is paid to the locations of the glands - behind the ears, under the tail, paws, pants. Light wool is bleached with special means, keeping them on the cover for 3-5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly, adding vinegar (4 tbsp per 10 liters) or citric acid (1 tsp per 1 liter).
2. Another soaping with a degreasing shampoo is combined with combing. A wide-toothed metal comb will come in handy. Lather your hair with a sponge or toothbrush. Rinse the animal with plenty of water.
3. Lathering with exhibition shampoo, special attention to the face and paws. Rinse.
4. Lathering with tinted shampoo, which will add brightness and shine to the coat. Leave for 10-15 minutes and wash off.
5. For volume, the wool is treated with conditioner and styling gel. Then you need to rinse the cat thoroughly

Preparing for the event

To get everything done, you need to start preparing several months in advance. The necessary equipment will be required that will be important for participation in the exhibition, and the animal should also be brought into proper appearance. Proper nutrition before the event plays an important role, so you need to take care of your pet’s diet in advance.

What tools and equipment will be needed?

What you need to prepare in advance:

• a metal cage with curtains - it is important to pay attention to the design, as this is an additional point in the competition;
• bedding - it is best to give preference to dense and natural material;
• tray - the deeper the cat litter, the more convenient it will be at the event;
• toilet filler - give preference to the desired one that neutralizes odors and absorbs urine well;
• two bowls - it is recommended to buy small metal or ceramic options;
• food and water;
• toys - no more than 2-3 are enough;
• antiseptic wipes - will be needed to disinfect hands and tables;
• disinfector - you need to purchase the smallest volume and an additional rag;
• comb.

Before the event, it is important to purchase a metal cat cage

Additionally, it is recommended to take care of special bags where feces are disposed of, because the cat may go to the toilet more than once during the event.

Appearance of the animal

The first thing you need to do a week before the exhibition is to bathe your pet. In this case, it is advisable to use a balm during the procedure, which will improve the appearance of the coat. It is best to comb your pet immediately before the event. If you do this in advance, the wool may mat again. During combing, it is important to remove all tangles, since their presence is unacceptable.

It is recommended to brush your pet thoroughly before the event.

Ear cleaning should also be done the night before the event if necessary. To do this, you need to carefully examine your pet's hearing aid. It is best to bend the auricle and, if there is visible dirt, moisten a cotton pad in saline solution and carefully remove the wax. You can also use a cotton swab, but under no circumstances should you push it deep into the ear canal.

Requirements for the appearance of a pet for admission to the exhibition:

• absence of fleas and dirt on the coat;
• clean eyes, nose, ears and area under the tail;
• cut transparent tips of nails;
• absence of acne and other inflammatory processes on the skin.

In order to increase the chances of getting the highest score, you can also brush your pet’s teeth immediately before the event, especially if they have yellow plaque on them.

Nutrition rules

The day before the exhibition, you can feed your pet as usual. There are no dietary restrictions. However, you should not feed your cat just a few hours before leaving for the event. This can be done immediately after the exhibition ends. If the event lasts a long time, then you can give a little food during it.

It is not recommended to overfeed a cat on the eve of an event.

The day before, it is advisable not to give the animal anything that can cause diarrhea, so it is better to exclude dairy products from the diet for a while. As for water, the animal should drink as much as it wants. In this case, there should be no prohibitions, since the pet may be thirsty due to severe stress.

Attention! If you suspect a cat has a digestive disorder, it is important to show it to a veterinarian in a timely manner, who will prescribe medication and prevent incidents from occurring during the exhibition.

How to prepare your pet for an event - video

Accommodation

As you enter the hall, you will see a row of tables on which the owners set up tents and enclosures. When choosing a table, consider several factors:

• how quickly you can get to the judging site;
• are there any drafts in this place, are there open windows, doors, or noisy air conditioning nearby;
• will all your things fit next to the table, because you cannot occupy a large area, since the neighboring tents plus the owner, accompanying people, bags and the like.

Set up a tent or enclosure, decorate the box with curtains, and place a tray, bedding, and bowls inside. Place your cat inside and check that the doors are securely closed. Hang a banner, decorations, toys and everything else you have prepared to organize the “seating” area. Don’t forget to attach the numbers issued at registration (one piece of paper for the tent, the other for yourself, so that the organizers of the exhibition can always find you and your cat). Now you can look around a little, chat with the guests of the exhibition, use the services of a professional photographer, have a snack - all you have to do is wait until the steward calls you to see the expert.

How are exhibitions held?

The event can last 2–3 days. Most often, exhibitions are organized in winter, since it is during this period that pets’ fur grows most quickly and can be seen in all its glory. You must arrive at the event one hour before the start. This is necessary in order to choose a suitable place and have time to show the animal to the doctor. If this is neglected, the organizers may remove the pet from the competition.

Main stages:

1. Registration. Immediately upon arrival at the venue, you must give all documents to the organizer. After this, you should pick up the catalog and registration number. It is important to check the accuracy of all entered data.
2. Veterinary control. After registration, you need to go to the doctor and spread a diaper on the table, where the pet should be placed. Most often, this is not required, since the surface is treated with antiseptics. After inspection, pick up a ticket, which cannot be thrown away.
3. Accommodation. At the chosen location you need to place the cage, adjust the curtain and attach the registration number.
4. Grade. After the judge calls the registration number, you need to take the cat in your arms and go to the examination table, placing the animal there. In this case, you should calmly stand aside and not interfere in the process. Sometimes this stage goes differently. A steward may come pick up the cat and take it to an expert. At the same time, it is important to sit still and not argue with management.
5. Completion of the examination. At the end of the assessment process, a conclusion should be issued, and after the exhibition a diploma.
6. Demonstration. Once the assessment part is completed, the animal can be placed in a cage. At the same time, everyone walks through the exhibition hall, looking at the cats. At this stage, it is important to explain to all guests of the event that they cannot touch the pet, but only watch.

A pet is allowed to the exhibition only if it has the necessary documents

Attention! The cat always catches the owner’s mood, so during the event you need to be as nervous as possible. Otherwise, the pet will behave fearfully or aggressively, which may not please the expert.

Once I was at a cat show as a guest (so to speak, an outside observer). I really enjoyed the event, but I just felt sorry for the pets, who, apparently, were uncomfortable in the cages. Some of them were sleeping, and some were playing with their relatives. All the cages were well-groomed, as were the pets themselves. Cats could be photographed, but without flash. Right at the exhibition you can purchase any purebred animal for a decent amount. However, there is no risk that you could be deceived. Buying a cat at an exhibition is the best option, according to the expert, although you will have to overpay a certain amount.

Registration

When you arrive, first go to the registration desk. You need to confirm your presence: take your passport, a copy of your pedigree/metrics, a payment receipt or money if the exhibitor fee has not yet been paid. The secretary will give you an exhibition catalog and two pieces of paper with the number assigned to the cat. Carefully check all the data in the catalog, compare it with a copy of the pedigree. If an error is found, return to the table and fill out a special form in which you point out the unfortunate misunderstanding. The form must be submitted to the secretariat before the start of the exhibition.

Factors affecting cost

The costs of participating in an exhibition event can vary widely. The following factors influence the final costs:

1. The amount of the entrance fee.
2. Event class.
3. Costs for preparing the animal.
4. How many cats from the breeder will be at the event.
5. City and venue of the exhibition.
6. Number of days of presence.
7. Cat breed.
8. Is the animal owner a member of the RCA club?
9. Expenses for purchasing exhibition supplies.

Champion health. Freedom from parasites

Protecting pedigree cats preparing for exhibition from parasites is no different from protecting outbred pets. Pets that do not walk outside require regular treatment for fleas and worms using special insectoacaricidal and anthelmintic agents:

• For fleas – once every 2 months;
• For worms – once every 3 months.

Do not neglect treatment for parasites, since even a pet who does not leave the apartment runs the risk of becoming infected with fleas or worms. Where do parasites come from for a four-legged couch potato? You can bring them yourself on your clothes or shoes.

A cat in whose fur a specialist finds fleas during veterinary inspection will be disqualified. Agree that it would be a shame to spend time, effort and money preparing an animal, and on the last day not to get to the long-awaited event due to jumping parasites.

Links[edit]

1. CFA History Archived 2010-12-01 at the Wayback Machine
2. CFA Cat Show information from ShowCatCentral.com, archived March 6, 2012, on the Wayback Machine
3. CFA Title Information from ShowCatCentral.com Archived 06/18/2013 on the Wayback Machine
4. "Ragdoll: Scoring Frequently Asked Questions". Cat Fanciers Association
   . Archived from the original on November 27, 2014. Retrieved December 2, 2014.