What you need To Show Your Cat At A CFA Cat Show

Here is a list of things I tell people that are entering a Cat Show for the first time.

The Cat must have all its Claws to be shown in a CFA Cat Show.

Next thing is a Cat Show Entry Form; this can be for any Cat Show that you are planning on entering. You can make copies and keep them on file for upcoming Shows. This form can be used for Pedigreed Cats as well as for Household Pets.

Kittens must be 4 months old and Adult Cats must be 8 months of age on the day of the show to be in the Adult Class. All Cats that are going into the Premiership Class are to be spayed or neutered, as are the Household Pets that are 8 months of age. Make sure your cat is up to date on all shots.

You will need to fill out the Cat Show Entry Form and send it with payment to the Entry Clerk whose name is on the Cat Show Flyer.

You want to do this at lest 2 weeks ahead of show so you can make the arrangement if you are staying at a Show hotel. The Clubs will choose a motel or hotel that will take cats. Hotel Rates are set for Clubs quite often at discounted rates for the two days of the Show. Some like to stay on Friday night and Saturday night. That way they are ready in the morning to start setting up their cages. Directions will be sent to you with both the hotel and show hall with your registration.

When entering one cat at the Cat Show I would recommend getting what is known as a double cage. You will only need one, which is around $15 or $20 extra. You and your cat will be there for two days and it is nice for the both of you to have the extra space. If you are entering 2 cats it is not needed they will be in the same cage. You will find this; on the Cat Show Entry Form it is located under Special Requests. Also if this were your first time, I would write that on the line for Benching. The Entry Clerk will See that and bench you with someone who is nice and will help you out with the Showing, if you ask them.

The Clubs that are putting on the Cat Show will have the cage for you and litter. What you will need is Cage coverings also known as Show Curtains.

I tell people that they can buy cloth ruminates at a sewing store. They are not expensive. What you will need is: something washable

1 ½ Yards for the bottom of the Cage

1 ½ Yards for the top of the Cage

3   Yards for the inside and outsides of the Cage. You will need the hole 3 yards so do not cut it.

What I did was hand hemmed the sides that way when you wash it, it will not unravel. Lace is optional.

You will also need clips to clip the top and sides of the cage down that way you will secure it so the cat can’t push it up and get out. This you can get at any stationary store.

You will need a pet carrier to get to and from the show hall. A small disposable litter pan. Dishes for food and water. Comb or brush. A small wooden snack table to groom the cat on. 

Now for the grooming you want to wash the cat and clip all the claws before the show. CFA has a video for sale that will show you how to groom a shorthair or longhair cat.

Also you may want to get the Show Rules that will help you better understand rules and regulations. You can call them for the information on cost and how to order. (732) 528-9797

Well I think I told you everything that’s needed. Good luck and have a good time…
Written by Barbara Laufnick
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