Cat Agility Training
Cat agility is a relatively new sport. Similar to its cousin, canine agility, feline agility consists of a course of obstacles that the cat must maneuver in the correct order within a specified amount of time. Cat agility is a timed sport and awards are given for fastest times. While not all cats will necessarily take to agility training, the ones that do, enjoy it, as do their owners.
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History
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According to the Cat Fanciers' Association, cat agility competitions were first introduced to cat shows in 2004. The International Cat Association (TICA) describes cat agility as a timed competitive event in which owners guide their cats around an agility course, while the cat is being graded on speed, coordination, beauty of movement, physical condition, intelligence and training.
Levels
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TICA lists two levels of agility competition for cats: basic and advanced. The basic level is for beginner cats and allows them to get used to the agility equipment and course. The advanced level is split into level one and level two. Level one is for intermediate agility cats, and level two is for seasoned competitors, with the agility equipment set at maximum height and difficulty.
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Misconceptions
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People often think that agility competition is just for dogs. Dogs certainly helped make the sport popular, but with the International Cat Agility Tournaments' (ICAT) recent introduction of feline competitors, the myth that cats are untrainable or unintelligent was proven untrue. TICA recommends playing daily with your cat and training using patience, respect and affection to prepare it for agility competition.
Benefits
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According to ICAT, cat agility provides both owner and cat with hours of fun. Agility can help cats to stay healthy and in shape, and can build a bond between owner and cat. Also, ICAT allows any and all cats, rather than just purebred cats with papers, to compete for free.
Considerations
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According to TICA, agility obstacles can be made or purchased for at-home practice. A cat that is able to practice at home may be able to build stamina and advance to a higher level of competition.
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References
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