THE COMPLEX WORLD OF CAT SHOWS...?
Attending cat shows is a wonderful hobby for the whole family, especially if the cat is show-quality and has the potential to win various awards, trophies, and rosettes. It’s an engaging world that may seem very confusing to a novice. Therefore, I’ll write a bit about what’s happening in Estonia so that anyone interested can read and get involved.
Table of contents
ORGANIZATIONS AND CLUBS
Basically, there are currently four major organizations representing Scottish cats in Estonia: TICA (The International Cat Association), WCF (World Cat Federation), WACC (World Association of Cat Clubs), and CFA (Cat Fanciers’ Association).
TICA is the highest-rated system among cat breeders and enthusiasts, where qualified international judges work and show results hold great importance. TICA is the world’s largest genetic registry system, uniting enthusiasts of purebred and household cats, breeders, etc. This association originated in the United States and now covers a very large part of the world. TICA has the most members, and their number grows every day.
TICA is represented in Estonia by the Estonian Cat Association ESTICAT. The club is young but meets the expectations of many breeders, as there has long been a need for the TICA system here.
Shows are organized worldwide, but the closest countries where the system is very popular are Finland, Russia, the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, and soon Lithuania. Guest shows are also organized in Latvia.
As is typical for American systems, Scottish Folds are recognized in both short-haired and long-haired varieties. All colors and point colors are allowed. Titles hold great weight and are recognized worldwide.
WCF is a system represented in Estonia by Cato and Selena Tiger. Shows are organized in the Baltic states, Russia, and across Europe. WCF shows allow participation with both Scottish Fold and Straight cats, including long-haired ones. All colors are allowed except point + white combinations. A downside is that almost any cat can reach the World Champion title—it just requires a certain number of show appearances. Thus, the value of titles is quite low.
WACC is a Russian system represented in Estonia by the Elite Cat Club Jessy. The advantage is that shows last only one day and you get two certificates, but the level of judges is low and the organization of shows is a bit chaotic. They also do not distinguish between Scottish Straight and British Short- and Long-haired cats, which is strictly prohibited in other systems. See the breed standard for more details. Titles can only reach the European Ch level, and there are essentially no foreign shows. Similarly to WCF, obtaining a title basically just requires attendance.
CFA is the oldest American system, represented in Estonia by the cat club Cleopella. The level is high, and shows can also be attended in Finland. Most other shows take place in the USA, with some in China. All point colors are prohibited, yet this is currently the most popular and desired line among top breeders in the Baltics and Russia. Titles are highly valued.
GOING TO A CAT SHOW WITH YOUR CAT
Once you’ve decided which club you want to join, become a member and pay the annual fee. You’ll also need to register your cat with the club. To attend a show, you simply need to fill out the relevant form and pay the participation fee. You can choose either a one-day or two-day show. On both days, one or more judges will evaluate the cats, depending on the system.
It’s worth taking a kitten to at least a one-day show early on—the kitten gains experience, and you get to familiarize yourself with the system and other participants. You’ll also receive a professional opinion from a judge, and who knows, your little one might even win the Best Kitten title along with a rosette and trophy. If you’re hesitant to go alone, you can hire a cat handler—such a service is offered by LuxPet in Estonia. This ensures your cat gets to the right place at the right time and is presented in the best possible way. Transport to and from the show is included in the price! All LuxPet services are 20% cheaper for Macrory Cattery cats! Discounts also apply to ESTICAT members.
Things to bring to the show:
- Cat’s documents and passport!
- Your own cage, if desired
- If using a provided cage, bring disinfectant
- A toy for the cat to keep boredom at bay
- A comb to give your cat a final groom before going to the judge’s table
- Beautiful curtains and bedding for the cage, so your cat can rest comfortably. Curtains are mandatory to ensure nearby cats feel secure and don’t disturb each other. You can sew the curtains yourself or order custom-sized ones to match your cat’s colors from Reeda Kardinad & Disain. For example, at Jessy shows, there’s a cage decoration contest, and a beautiful cage can win great prizes.
- Food and drink for yourself – it’s a long day ahead. Usually, you can also buy food on site
- Proper attire. One that brings out your cat’s colors
- For the first time, just in case, bring a litter box for the kitten. Usually, cats don’t use it during the show day
- Camera
- Reading material or crossword puzzles for yourself
- Definitely a good mood 🙂
ABOUT THE TICA SHOW SYSTEM
WHAT IS A CAT SHOW?
Cats are spayed/neutered every day. If your cat has no health problems, the operation is safe and simple. Your veterinarian will examine the cat before the surgery to determine if the cat has any health issues. Even owners of adult cats can enjoy the benefits of the surgery!
PEDIGREE CATS
Every pedigree cat has a standard. The judge must evaluate each cat and place them in positions and award them according to who is closest to the standard. Both intact and altered cats are welcome to participate.
DOMESTIC CATS
ESTICAT welcomes household cats (non-pedigree cats) to shows with open arms. Household cats (HHP class) have their own special standard and titles that are comparable to those of pedigree cats. Household cats are evaluated mainly based on condition, beauty, and show condition. Household cats are evaluated mainly based on condition, beauty, and show condition. Household cats are evaluated mainly based on condition, beauty, and show condition. Household cats are evaluated mainly based on condition, beauty, and show condition. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and colors and patterns are the work of Mother Nature.
NEW BREEDS, ADVANCED NEW BREEDS, AND TRAITS
These interesting classes are designed for new breeds and new colors or traits in already recognized breeds. These cats are registered with TICA but have not yet reached championship status.
Genetic Registry – TICA has a genetic registry that recognizes hundreds of different colors and patterns.
HOW TO REGISTER FOR A SHOW?
Find information on the ESTICAT website www.esticat.org and fill out the appropriate show registration form. Club members always get a discount on participation. The cat should be registered with TICA. For the first time, you can participate without being a member, but you cannot yet compete for titles—this is intended for gaining experience.
PARTICIPATION INFORMATION
First, check the announcement for: the registration deadline and participation fee. Adult household cats must be spayed/neutered to participate. Points/wins earned by unregistered cats starting from the second show will not be counted. Show participants are required to provide the registration number to the show secretary or chief secretary and to the head office. To retain points earned from the first show (if the cat was not yet registered), the owner must notify the head office in writing.
TICA Show Rules
- Cats that have had their claws removed are not penalized;
- All cats’ claws must be trimmed—otherwise, the show may end with disqualification for the cat. Kittens or cats that are visibly pregnant may not participate;
- A cat missing any physical part—for example, an eye, ear, leg, or tail (except for breeds where this is specified by the standard)—may not participate (except in the Household Cat or Household Kitten classes);
- The show committee may allow cats aged 3 months or older to participate for promotion or sale;
- Household cats must be registered to be awarded titles and participate in annual awards, and they must be judged by qualified judges;
- Cats registered for a show must remain in the same status across all rings, even if they qualify for a new status in the meantime;
- Participants, regardless of class, must be accepted by the show secretary. No class may be discriminated against by setting a maximum number of participants.
CLASSES
Cats are divided into classes: Kittens, Adults, and Altered Cats (recognized breeds) and Kittens and Adults (household cats).
Kittens are aged 4–8 months; the adult class begins from the 8th month (as of the first day of the show).
SHOW CAGES
The show committee allocates one cage per cat. Double cages or grooming spaces may be available for an additional fee. Cage sizes vary depending on the organizer, so clarify this in advance. Cage curtains are very important and also mandatory—they ensure your cat’s privacy. They can be luxurious (with crystals and ruffles) or simple but should be designed to cover three sides and the top of the cage. A base cushion must also be included. Double curtains are also possible—one set covering the inside of the cage and another on the outside. We recommend ordering cage curtains from professionals—Reeda Kardinad & Disain. The designer will choose fabric that complements and highlights your cat. It should be easy to clean, attach, and adjust in size (to fit different cages). Provide the designer with measurements and your preferences.
SHOW TIME!
Try to arrive early, as the registration queue can be long. Check the schedule for times. The registration desk is usually located near the entrance of the show hall. Keep your confirmation sheet and veterinary passport handy. At the desk, you’ll receive your cat’s catalog number. This number is listed in the show catalog, on the cage, in the judge’s book, and appears in the judging ring when it’s your turn.
Purchase a catalog (if it’s not included in the fee). Check all your details immediately—if necessary, contact the chief secretary and write to the head office.
Find your cage location, set up the cage curtains, litter box, and water bowl. Don’t wait until the last minute. Give yourself enough time to set everything up. Try to create a comfortable environment for your cat—this way, both of you can relax and enjoy the show.
Check the catalog for the schedule—it should include the judging ring timetable (usually on the back cover). Find out which ring will judge your breed first.
JUDGING
The cat is called to the judging ring by its catalog number. When you hear your number, bring your cat to the corresponding ring. Check which cage has your cat’s number and place your cat in that cage. Ensure the cage door is locked! Then exit the ring immediately. Once judging is complete, the judge or ring clerk will notify you, and you can take your cat back to its place.
JUDGE’S BOOK
In TICA, the judge does not know your cat’s name, owner, breeder, or title (Novice, Champion, Grand Champion, etc.). The judge’s book lists the registration number, breed, category, division, color/pattern, cat’s age, class (kitten, adult, etc.), and sex. Genetic information is not included.
For example, a Siamese cat whose parents are both Orientals (shorthaired) is judged as a Siamese.
SHOW ETIQUETTE
It is expected that all show participants are familiar with and agree to all TICA show rules, registration rules, and bylaws.
Some rules concerning participants:
- The cat’s claws must be trimmed before entering the ring—otherwise, disqualification may follow;
- Participants may not sit in the ring holding their cats before or during judging (except by the judge’s instruction);
- A participant must not in any way inform the judge which cat belongs to them;
- A participant must not in any way inform the judge which cage their cat is in for another ring;
- A participant must not cause physical harm to any cat or person while at the show;
- A participant may not groom their cat while it is in the judging ring;
- If a cat requires a special or different cage in the ring, this must be communicated to the ring clerk before the cat’s numbers are called, so necessary adjustments can be made without disturbing other participants.
RIBBONS
Cats are called to the ring based on breed, division, and color/pattern. TICA does not have Best of Breed ribbons; points for titles also do not count toward breed awards.
The judge announces the first, second, and third places. The results are recorded in the judge’s book.
COLOR AND DIVISION AWARDS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
| Color | Place | Points | Division |
| Blue | I | 25 | Black |
| Red | II | 20 | Purple |
| Yellow | III | 15 | Orange |
| Green | IV | 10 | |
| White | V | 5 |
To achieve the title of Champion, Champion Alter (altered cats), or Master (household cats), a cat must earn 300 points plus receive one final award. Points are accumulated based on color, division, and final awards.
Best of Color (BOC): The judge places the top 1–5 cats in each color.
Example: Seven black Persian cats are present. The judge places the top five out of the seven. The Best of Color winners proceed.
Best of Division (BOD): From the BOC winners, the judge places the top three in the division.
Example: Our seven black Persian cats belong to the Solid (single-color) division. Other single-color Persian cats (white, blue, red, etc.) also belong to the Solid division.
The judge selects the top three cats from the BOC winners.
Best of Breed (BOB): From the BOD winners, the judge places the top three for the breed. Example: The Persian breed is accepted in all traditional, mink, and sepia categories. Solid, patterned, tortoiseshell, silver/smoke, and parti-color. The judge selects the breed’s best, second, and third place.
FINALS
This is the most important moment!!! The numbers of the finalists are not announced; the secretary announces the ring number where the final is taking place (for example, kitten final in ring no. 4) and participants must go to that ring to see if their cat’s number is up there. Finalists are selected from the Best of Breed, although it’s possible to get there as, for example, the fourth or fifth in Best of Color (provided that the first, second, and third places are ranked ahead of them).
In the all-breed final, the judge selects the top ten cats (longhair/shorthair) provided that 25 cats are competing in the ring. If 24 cats are competing, nine best are selected; if 23 cats, eight best; if 22 cats, seven best; if 21 cats, six best; if 20 or fewer cats, five best are selected. Final awards are distributed: to adult cats, kittens, altered cats, household cats, household kittens, and NBCs.
Special breed finals award the above prizes separately to longhair breeds and shorthair breeds.
AUDIENCE
It is very important that the audience behaves responsibly. Loud voices disturb everyone, including the cats; children must be under parental control. Do not stick fingers, toys, feather dusters, or anything else into the cats’ cages. Entering the judges’ rings is prohibited, but watching the spectacle from elsewhere is naturally welcome. Seating areas are created in front of the rings, from where it’s good to take photos and listen.
ABOUT THE WCF SHOW SYSTEM
Shows in Tallinn usually take place at the sports hall on Forelli Street, Selena Tiger shows at Lillepaviljon. When you arrive, you need to show your cat at the veterinary check. That the cat is healthy, claws trimmed, ears clean, etc. Then you get your participant number from the registration desk by saying your name, and you can choose your own cage. They are already waiting empty on the tables. Judging starts on the first day at ten in the morning and usually ends around five or six in the evening. Sometimes you have to be more patient. The first thing is to find your number on the paper attached to the judge’s table—then you know when to go to the judge and can keep an eye on the queue. Maybe your turn is only in the afternoon. Cats are arranged by breed and color code. If your cat and others have exactly one color code, the certificate goes to the best two. So, not every time does the kitty get a certificate. For how many certificates and in which class you need to get, see the WCF show classes.
If there are at least three cats of the same color and gender, the Best of Color cat is selected.
Once all the cats have been judged and the judges have secretly noted which cats they consider the best, tags labeled “NOM BIS” are awarded. These are placed on the cages, and those who receive them can be delighted. Their cat will proceed to compete in the Best in Show. This is where the best of the best compete. To participate in BIS, a cat must have received the Best of Color title or at least 95 points.
All cats are divided into four categories: long-haired, semi-long-haired (Highland Fold/Straight), short-haired (Scottish Fold/Straight), and Oriental/Siamese cats. If there are at least 15 cats in each category, four separate BIS competitions are held. If there are fewer than 15 cats, long-haired and semi-long-haired cats may be combined, as well as short-haired and Oriental/Siamese cats. If there are still fewer than 15 cats, all categories may be combined.
From each coat category, the following cats judged by each judge on a given day can be nominated to participate in BIS:
Best adult male cat
Best adult female cat
Best neutered male cat
Best spayed female cat
Best male veteran
Best female veteran
Best 6–10-month-old male kitten
Best 6–10-month-old female kitten
Best 3–6-month-old male kitten
Best 3–6-month-old female kitten
Best male baby kitten
Best female baby kitten
best litter, provided at least 3 litters participated and all cats in the litter were worthy of 95 points
any other cat that the judge decided in favor of
If the BIS judges’ decisions result in a tie, a draw is held to determine the winner.
The best female and male cats compete for the Best in Show title. The opposite-sex representative who comes in second receives the Best in Show Opposite Sex title. The winner stays on stage to participate in the Best of Best competition. The same applies to altered cats, veterans, kittens aged 6-10 and 3-6 months, and babies. The best litter is also selected.
Finally, the Best of Best competition is held, where the Best in Show winners from all coat categories compete. The top four are selected, with the first being the overall winner of the show.
Good luck participating!
Show classes in the WCF system
Class 1 | World Champion In this class, cats compete for the “Best Variety” and/or “Best in Show” title. They may receive a special Prize of Honour. |
Class 2 | World Premior In this class, cats compete for the “Best Variety Alter” and/or “Best in Show Alter” title. They may receive a special Prize of Honour. |
Class 3 | Grand European Champion resp. Grand Continental Champion In this class, cats compete for the “World Champion” title. They must receive CACM from three international shows, in three different countries, from three different judges. One of the countries must be on a different continent. According to the standard, they must receive 98 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety” and/or “Best in Show” title. |
Class 4 | Grand European Premior resp. Grand Continental Premior In this class, cats compete for the “World Premior” title. They must receive CAPM from three international shows, in three different countries, from three different judges. One of the countries must be on a different continent. According to the standard, they must receive 98 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety Alter” and/or “Best in Show Alter” title. |
Class 5 | European Champion resp. Continental Champion In this class, cats compete for the “GR. European Champion”, “GR. Continental Champion” title. They must receive GCACE from three WCF international shows, in three different countries, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 97 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety” and/or “Best in Show” title. |
Class 6 | European Premior resp. Continental Premior In this class, cats compete for the “GR. European Premior”, “GR. Continental Premior” title. They must receive GCAPE from three WCF international shows, in three different countries, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 97 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety Alter” and/or “Best in Show Alter” title. |
Class 7 | Grand International Champion In this class, cats compete for the “European Champion”, “Continental Champion” title. They must receive CACE from three WCF international shows, in three different countries, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 97 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety” and/or “Best in Show” title. |
Class 8 | Grand International Premior In this class, cats compete for the “European Premior”, “Continental Premior” title. They must receive CAPE from three WCF international shows, in three different countries, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 97 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety Alter” and/or “Best in Show Alter” title. |
Class 9 | International Champion In this class, cats compete for the “Grand International Champion” title. They must receive CAGCIB from three WCF international shows, in two different countries, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 97 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety” and/or “Best in Show” title. |
Class 10 | International Premior In this class, cats compete for the “Grand International Premior” title. They must receive CAGPIB from three WCF international shows, in two different countries, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 97 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety Alter” and/or “Best in Show Alter” title. |
Class 11 | Champion In this class, cats compete for the “International Champion” title. They must receive CACIB from three WCF international shows, in two different countries, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 95 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety” and/or “Best in Show” title. |
Class 12 | Premior In this class, cats compete for the “International Premior” title. They must receive CAPIB from three WCF international shows, in two different countries, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 95 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety Alter” and/or “Best in Show Alter” title. |
Class 13 | Open class (10 months and older) In this class, cats compete for the “Champion” title. They must receive CAC from three WCF international or national shows, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 93 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety” and/or “Best in Show” title. |
Class 14 | Altered cats (starting from 10 months old) In this class, cats compete for the “Premior” title. They must receive CAP from three WCF international or national shows, from three different judges. According to the standard, they must receive 93 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety Alter” and/or “Best in Show Alter” title. |
Class 15 | Juniors 6 – 10 months Cats competing in this class must be at least 6 months old and no older than 10 months on the first day of the show, and they must be registered in a recognized club’s LO or RIEX registry. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They are evaluated and also compete for the “Best Variety Kitten 6 – 10 months” and/or “Best in Show Kitten 6 – 10 months” title. |
Class 16 | Kittens 3 – 6 months The same rules apply as for cats aged 6–10 months. |
Class 16a | Babies (10 weeks – 3 months) The same rules apply as for cats aged 6–10 months. |
Class 17 | Novice Novices can be presented starting from six months of age in their own organization, monitored by the national breeding committee. The judge must be informed of the reason for participating in this class. A cat can be presented in this class only once. Signatures from two judges are required. The cat must receive an “Excellent” rating to be registered. |
Class 18 | Color Determination Class In this class, kittens are presented starting from the third month of life to determine their color. They can receive a qualification without classification. |
Class 19 | Household Cats In this class, altered cats that do not correspond to any recognized breed—household cats—are presented. They are ranked and may be nominated for the title “Best Household Pet of the Show”. |
Class 20 | Litters (10 – 12 weeks) Litters are evaluated according to the breed standard and developmental stage. The better the traits of the kittens, the better the litter. Cats participating in this class must not be younger than 10 weeks or older than 3 months on the first day of the show. They may also be nominated for the title “Best in Show Litter”. |
Class 21 | Veterans In this class, pedigree cats older than 8 years compete. They receive the qualification “Excellent”. They must receive at least 95 points. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety Veteran” and/or “Best in Show Veteran” title. |
Class 22a | Breeds Awaiting Recognition In this class, cats whose breed is awaiting recognition compete. This includes those with recognized colors, colors awaiting recognition, and unrecognized colors. They receive the qualification “Excellent” and are ranked, but they do not receive any certificates. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the “Best Variety provisionally recognized breed” and/or “Best in Show provisionally recognized breed” title. |
Class 22b | Recognized Breeds with Colors Awaiting Recognition In this class, all recognized breeds whose color is awaiting recognition are shown. They receive the qualification “Excellent” and are ranked, but they do not receive any certificates. Cats are divided by breed, color, and sex. They also compete for the title “Best Variety provisionally recognized colour”, but they cannot participate in the Best in Show competition. |
