How to Train a Cat for a Show

A pedigreed cat considered worthy of being judged for its representation as the physical ideal for its breed is also known as a show cat. Cat fanciers and breeders work long and hard to get a cat ready to show and preparation begins at an early age. Aside from being in optimum health and possessing an attractive appearance, a show cat is also judged for its personality and temperament. If you think your kitty has the right stuff, you should know how to train a cat for a show.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• (Hopefully cooperative) cat

Learn Techniques on How to Train A Cat For A Show

1. Forget everything you may have learned about how to train a dog. They are different animals and require different training methods.
2. Remember that reward, not reprimand, is the key to obtaining desirable behavior from your show cat.
3. Practice 'stance' with your cat as much as possible right from the start. Judges don't expect you to train your cat to stand erect with a pronounced posture as you might a dog. However, if you can train your cat to maintain a standing or sitting position for a few moments, this helps.
4. Make sure you're familiar with requirements and standards expected of your cat's breed before considering participating in a show. The Cat Fancier's Association provides numerous booklets to bring you up to speed (see Resources below).
5. Let an expert train you to train your cat for a show. The Cat Fancier's Association provides a Mentor Program to help newcomers to the world of cat shows become acclimated with the process. (See Resources below.)

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be afraid to enter your cat into a show. Many amateurs walk away with prizes since there are so many categories of awards. Besides, most people (and cats) enjoy the atmosphere of the show as a reward in itself.
• One unspoken rule is that show cats are generally not indoor/outdoor cats. For one thing, cats allowed to roam freely outdoors are vulnerable to injury and disease. For another, it presents a persistent challenge to good grooming.
• Improve your cat's "stance" by stroking the leather of its nose slowly and gently in a downward motion when she's in the proper position.
• If your cat is especially shy, fearful or even aggressive, entering the animal in a show probably isn't a good idea.