Why we go to cat shows
To many, cat shows may seem like a hobby arena where you just show your cat to win prizes. But for those of us who breed cats – and for many other cat owners – it's about much more than rosettes and trophies. Cat shows play an important role in the development of the breed, cat welfare and the community between breeders and owners.
1. Quality assurance of breeding animals
One of the main reasons breeders go to shows is to get an independent assessment of their cats from authorized judges. The judges compare the cat to the breed standard and provide an objective assessment of exterior and overall appearance.
• This helps the breeder see if the cat has the correct breed-typical traits.
• It provides an indication of whether the cat should continue to be bred, or whether other breeding choices should be made. In this way, shows contribute to preserving and developing the breed in a healthy and correct way.
2. Health and well-being in focus
Although appearance is the main consideration, the health of the cats is always the focus. A cat that is not in good condition or appears stressed will rarely perform well. For breeders, this is a reminder of how important it is to breed cats that both look good and thrive in the show environment.
3. Learning and knowledge sharing
Shows are a meeting place for breeders, new cat owners and breed enthusiasts.
Here you can:
• Get tips on fur care and feeding.
• Discuss genetics and breeding strategies.
• Exchange experiences with others who are passionate about the same breed.
For a new breeder, a show can be one of the best learning arenas there is.
4. Community and joy
The social aspect is an important reason why many people participate. You meet old and new friends, share experiences and cheer each other on. For many cat owners who are not involved in breeding, showing your cat can be an exciting hobby and a way to become part of a community.
5. Visibility and responsibility
Exhibitions give the public the opportunity to see different breeds up close, talk to breeders and learn more about what goes into serious breeding. It is also an important arena for showcasing healthy and well-socialized cats – and helping to educate more people about what to look for when buying a cat.
How does a FIFe show work?
At a FIFe show, cats are entered into different classes based on age, sex, breed and previous achievements. Judges from different countries evaluate the cats based on breed standard, health and overall impression.
• Evaluation: Each cat receives an individual evaluation, and the judge writes a report that the owner takes home.
• Certificates: Cats that do well can win certificates, and when they collect enough, they can achieve titles such as Champion, International Champion or even Supreme Champion.
• Nomination and Best in Show: The best cats within each category can be nominated to a panel, where the judges vote for the best cats of the day in their groups. What makes a FIFe show special?
• It is standardized – regardless of whether you are exhibiting in Norway, Sweden or Germany, the show is held in the same way. • It provides international recognition, as titles from FIFe are valid across member countries.
• It is a meeting place for breeders, cat owners and the public alike. You can see many different breeds together in one place, and get a realistic impression of what they look like in real life.
Why important for breeders? For breeders, FIFe shows are particularly valuable because:
• They provide an objective assessment from experienced judges who see hundreds of cats throughout the year.
• You get the opportunity to compare your own cats with others of the same breed.
• Certificates and titles provide official documentation that the cat is of high quality according to breed standard.
• It also provides reassurance for cat buyers that the parent animals are not only healthy and social, but have also been assessed as good representatives of their breed.
Have you ever wondered if cat shows could be something for you?
Cat shows are more than glitter, trophies and rows of pretty cats – they are a meeting place for cat lovers, an arena for learning and a great opportunity to show off your four-legged friend.
Many people are surprised by how social and exciting it is to participate in a show, and how much you learn both about your own cat and about other breeds.
As a breeder, I place great importance on breeding healthy, breed-typical and well-socialized cats.
If you think cat shows sound exciting, it is certainly possible to get a cat from my breeding that is suitable for shows. It would be nice if you let me know when you contact me, so that I can find a kitten with the right potential for you.
Maybe you will be the next to stand on stage with a proud and beautiful cat in your arms?