New Exhibitors
Entering your first cat show can feel a little overwhelming, but it is also a fun and rewarding experience. Cat shows are a wonderful way to learn more about your cat, meet other cat lovers, speak with breeders and exhibitors, and celebrate the many beautiful breeds and companion cats in our community.
Whether you are showing a pedigree cat, kitten, neuter/spay, domestic, or companion cat, the most important thing is to come prepared, be patient, and enjoy the day.
Please check that your kitten or cat has been entered correctly. All entries must be completed and submitted to the Entry Clerk before the closing date listed on the show schedule.
Email the Entry Clerk if you’re not sure.
Before you enter
Before entering the show, please read the show schedule carefully. This will include important information such as the closing date for entries, show venue, entry fees, classes, benching times, and any requirements for vaccination certificates or other documentation. All entries must be completed and submitted to the Entry Clerk before the closing date listed on the show schedule.
Preparing Your Cat For Show Day
A few days before the show, check that your cat is comfortable being handled, especially around the head, ears, paws, and body. Judges need to safely examine your cat, so gentle handling practice at home can help your cat feel more relaxed.
The night before the show, give your cat a final groom. Clean around the eyes, ears, and nose if needed, brush or wipe the coat, and make sure the claws are clipped. Auckland Cat Club require all exhibits’ claws to be clipped before the show.
What to Bring on Show Day
Please bring your cat in a secure carry cage, along with their vaccination certificate, bedding for the show cage, a small litter tray, food and water bowls, and any items that may help your cat feel comfortable during the day. Show days can be busy, so it is also a good idea to bring snacks, water, and anything you may need for yourself.
Arriving at the Show
Arrive with plenty of time to settle in. When you arrive, you will need to check in, present your vaccination certificate, and find your allocated cage. Our shows use in-cage vetting, always follow the instructions in the show schedule and listen to the show team on the day.
Your cat will usually spend the day in a show cage. Set up the cage before taking your cat out of their carrier. Add bedding, water, and a litter tray if required. Allow your cat time to settle before judging begins.
During Judging
During judging, please listen carefully for instructions from the show team, stewards, and handlers. If your cat is required for judging, follow the process advised on the day. Please do not open cages or handle other exhibitors’ cats without permission.
Show Etiquette for New Exhibitors
Please be considerate of other exhibitors and their cats. Do not touch or open another exhibitor’s cage without permission, keep noise levels low around the cats, and follow all instructions from the show team. If you are unsure about anything, please ask — our club members are happy to help.
Helping Your Cat Feel Comfortable
Your cat may feel unsure at their first show. This is normal. You can help by arriving early, setting up their cage calmly, speaking softly, and bringing familiar bedding or a small comfort item. Avoid overhandling your cat during the day and give them time to rest between judging.
FAQ
Is My Cat Eligible to Enter?
You do not need to be an experienced breeder to enjoy showing. Many exhibitors start by entering a kitten, neuter/spay, or companion cat. If you are unsure which class your cat should be entered in, please contact the Entry Clerk before entries close.
What health requirements are there?
Please ensure your cat or kitten is healthy, clean, and up to date with vaccinations before show day. Bring your cat’s vaccination certificate with you, as this may be checked before benching. Cats showing signs of illness, fleas, ringworm, mites, or other health concerns may not be permitted to remain at the show.
What If My Cat Does Not Win?
Winning is exciting, but it is not the only reason to show. Every show is a chance to learn, meet other cat lovers, and enjoy time with your cat. Judges’ opinions can vary, and cats may perform differently from show to show. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the experience.
New to Showing?
Entering your first cat show is exciting, and we are here to help make the experience as easy and enjoyable as possible. Before entering, please read the show schedule carefully and ensure your entry is completed and submitted to the Entry Clerk before the closing date.
On show day, please bring your cat in a secure carry cage, along with their vaccination certificate, bedding for their show cage, a small litter tray, food and water bowls, and any items that may help them feel comfortable. Your cat should be healthy, clean, well-groomed, and have their claws clipped before the show.
When you arrive, follow the directions of the show team and allow your cat time to settle into their cage. If you are unsure about anything, please ask one of our club members or show officials — we are happy to help new exhibitors.
Most importantly, enjoy the day. Cat shows are a wonderful way to learn, meet fellow cat lovers, and celebrate the beautiful cats and kittens in our community.
Show Information
Please do not be nervous about asking questions. Everyone was new once, and our club wants new exhibitors to feel welcome, supported, and confident. Whether this is your first show or your first time showing with Auckland Cat Club, we look forward to seeing you and your cat on show day.