Grooming

Once you have completed the formalities, you must prepare your future champion for competition. Cat shows are beauty contests in which cats are judged according to a standard, or ideal description of a breed. Your cat may be the most magnificent cat around, but if he is not prepared and in perfect condition, you are out of luck.

Begin by trimming your cat's claws with a nail clipper. This is very easy and prevents the judge from being lacerated by a frightened cat. Actually, it is highly recommended that owners regularly clip the claws of indoor cats. This prevents the claws from growing too long due to insufficient wear and also protects your furniture.

Next, if you have shorthaired cats (Burmese, Siamese, British Shorthair, etc.), all is simple: You need only bathe your cat two days before the show with a gentle shampoo, then dry him with a washcloth while smoothing the hair in the direction it grows. If you have gotten your cat used to baths from an early age, you will have no problem. Some cats even feel comfortable in warm water. Otherwise, proceed slowly, dampening the cat with a washcloth until he relaxes. Generally, it works best to wet the cat gradually with warm water and then massage the shampoo through his coat.

If you have a longhaired cat, things are a bit different. You cannot get a Persian or Birman into show condition overnight. Their long hair requires frequent, even daily brushing. Actually, brushing is essential even for cats who are not shown: When knots form in long hair, they tend to reach all the way to the skin, causing great pain to the cat. Regular brushing also helps remove dead hair and prevents the cat from swallowing it. Daily brushing does not necessarily have to be a ritual and can be done during brief moments of affection. Before bathing a longhaired cat, make sure his coat is completely free of tangles, since knots are not easier to undo when wet. Using a special conditioner after shampooing can help coat the hair. Drying the hair after bathing is necessary to prevent frizzing. The day before the show, feel free to treat your cat with an external antiparasitic agent to protect him from fleas and other undesirables.Your cat is now clean and presentable. You should know that there are little grooming tricks for some breeds. The large ears of Siamese and Orientals can be carefully shaved on the inside to make them appear larger. Extra hair on the head of Persians can be removed to make the head appear rounder. Ask your breeder or other exhibitors for advice. Often, all you have to do is ask, and this will help you meet other enthusiasts.

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