>>Hi, Showcat (or Abymom),
>>
>>There will be a cat show in my hometown (Lafayette IN) on April 12th and 13th.
>>I would like to attend (only me, no kitties). I know this is a silly question but I don't have any kind of idea of what to expect since I have not attended any myself. The only thing I have seen so far is the registration form for people SHOWING cats. I wonder if regular people are actually admitted.
>>In case they do, besides the admission fee, are there any other costs in a cat show? Anything of interest (of course, beside seeing the beautiful kitties there)? I've heard that they may give you free samples and retailers sell food and accesories at discount prices...Anything else I should know?
>>
>>Thanks
>>-----
>>Bob, Daisy, Karla and the Goldfish


Karla, yes, the public is always welcome at cat shows! There is usually an admission charge. Cat shows are put on by local clubs in accordance with the show rules and regulations of the association they belong to such as AFCA, TICA or CFA. The judges are licensed and approved by the association. What you will see! Oh my! First, depending on the venue, is a room or hall full of long tables covered with cages that are usually about 2' x 2' x 4'. That is the "benching" area for the cats to be shown. Most exhibitors use decorative curtains and more to spruce up the plain wire cages. Some people have their own benching cages made of plexiglass, or other materials, some are exeptionally fancy! Visitors are welcome to wander through the area and look at the cats. Look but don't touch. Touching is not allowed as it could result in a bite for you or spread disease from one cat to another. Don't be afraid to talk to the exhibitors and ask questions. Like all of us, they love their cats and like to share the finer points of their breed. If they seem distracted, don't worry, they're probably listening for a number to be called to take a cat for judging.

In one area or another of the hall will be several separate areas being used as judging rings. Depending on the format, each judge will judge each category of cats over the two days. Each judge will also award finals ribbons in kittens, championship and alter classes. Depending on the association, there may also be a Household Pet class.

The vendors - that's another fun thing. Many shows have vendors offering cat supplies, but there are usually several offering all kinds of human oriented cat stuff, too - t-shirts, mugs, jewelery, books, magazines and what have you! Either bring money or lock up the credit card in advance! Also, if you have a digital camera, take it along!

If you go to the photo gallery here in Cat Hobbyist and do a search on my PHAbymom user name, you will see a series of photos taken by another host at a cat show last year.

Good luck, have fun and report back to us on your experience!



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PHAbymom
Site Coordinator
www.CatHobbyist.com
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