Cats’ shows are the same as dogs. However, in this competition, cat owners submit their cats (in different categories) to be criticized according to a breed standard or talent showcase to gain titles in various cat registry organizations. Although the guidelines vary from organization to organization, pedigreed and companion (or moggy) cats are allowed.
Cats closest to a breed standard will win titles and awards. The points earned at other shows are tallied up at the end of the year, and additional national and regional titles are given.
Preparations for a cat show would require time, money, and effort. Thus, this article would help you to prepare your cat with the help of Kara Johnson, a finance writer from PaydayBears. This lending institution would help you or anyone borrow money to pay your bills or even help you finance your cat’s preparations.
And here are four (4) tips to prepare your cat for the cat show.
Understand and Embrace Cat Show Environment
Before joining a competition with your cat at a cat show, it is essential to spectate cat shows with your cat beforehand, especially if you’re a newcomer. Spectating helps you to understand what is happening and embrace and familiarize yourself and your cat with the environment.
And to understand and embrace more about cat culture and available information, it would be a good idea to read magazines or even online publications. By this, you would also know the upcoming event schedules of other cat shows, which means you have time to plan and prepare for the event.
Register Your Cat Based on Its Category
A cat show has seven categories: Kitten, Championship, Premiership, Veteran, Household Pet, Miscellaneous, and Provisional. It is essential where you want your cat to compete, so it will allow you both to prepare and rehearse.
The show has different ongoing shows done in the numerous judging rings throughout the hall. Each show is presided over by a different judge, who gives out their awards without considering other judges’ judgments. As a result, a cat who wins Best in Show in Ring 1 may not necessarily receive the same award from the judge in Ring 2.
Also, there are two types of judging rings: all-breed and specialty. All cats compete for different trophies and awards in an all-breed arena regardless of coat style or length. Only cats with identical coat lengths (or types) compete for awards in specialist rings.
Train Your Cat
Training your cat through mental and physical enrichment is necessary because they would become bored if not provided enough stimulation, resulting in concerns including destructive behavior, weight gain, depression, and other health problems. In addition, as your cat moves more during training, it allows them to think through problems, which is a beneficial mental and physical activity.
The relationship you have with your cat will grow stronger as a result of training. It provides you two with something enjoyable to do together and improves trust. You’ll also know more about your cat’s personality, body language, and mental processes.
Groom Your Cat Before the Show
Grooming your cat before the show is essential, especially if they have long or medium hair, as it benefits your cat’s health, happiness, and looks. An untended coat can grow lengthy, matted, and uncomfortable. While distributing natural oils, grooming helps remove dead skin cells and shed hair from the coat. By clipping, you may maintain your cat’s coat at a comfortable length that will suit the show and keep them comfortable.
Also, in the long run, especially if you would like to register your cat in different shows from time to time, regular, professional cat grooming can assist in minimizing issues like heat illness, ticks and parasites, discreet lumps, skin irritation, and paw discomfort, knots and matting that hurt, and excessive shedding of hair and fur balls.