SHOWING FOR THE FIRST TIME

The following points may take some of the confusion out of showing for the "first time". Many new owners who are in doubt and who are not sure of what to do may find the following points helpfull.

1. If a show schedule has not been posted to you, telephone the show manager listed in the Feline Focus or the club to have one posted to you.

2. Fill out the entry form in BLOCK LETTERS, including Registration Number, Membership Number and enclose a cheque for the correct money and post to the address shown BEFORE the closing date stated on the schedule.

3. If you are not sure how or what classes to enter always telephone either the Show Manager or someone in the club who will always help you.

4. Make sure your cats or kittens are immunized before the show. Vet certificates may be required as proof in the case of kittens.

5. On the day of the show make sure you have the following items with you:

a. The correct cats and kittens that you entered in the show.

b. Clean white show curtains

c. A white towel or cushion for your cat to sit on. ( spare towel or pillowslip is also handy in case your cat has an accident)

d. A carry case to carry your cat/kitten in. This is a must as cats held in the arms may escape and may also upset other cats in the vetting line.

e. A small litter tray. Some favourite food - don't be suprised if the cat doesn't eat anything - and a small dish for some water.

f. If the day is cold, a hot water bottle covered in a white cloth may be used.

6. Before bringing the cat to the show, make sure it has NO fleas in the coat, NO ear mites in the ears and the cat is showing no signs of ill health. Also check in the mouth for ulcers. Check the eyes for any redness. If ANY signs of ill health PLEASE DO NOT BRING YOUR CAT TO THE SHOW.

7. The day before the show it is an FCCV rule that all cats and Kitten claws MUST BE CLIPPED SHORT. 8. When you arrive at the show you will be handed your Vet Slip with your name, cats name and the cage number and any monies owing. If you paid for a catalogue there will be a mark in the top corner. The catalogue will be given to you when the hall is shut and the judging begins or given to you earlier if the show is Bay Style.

9. Always carry you FCCV Membership card with you to all shows. One day you may be asked to show it at the door.

10. Your cat will now be examined by the vet. He will check for infection, ulcers, sore eyes, fleas, and ear mites and also general health. Pregnant cats should not be shown in case of a miscarriage or infection. If the cat is passed you then enter the hall, find your cage, hang your curtains and settle your cat. The toilet tray may be left in during judging.

11. If you have volunteered to help at the show, report to the Show Manager, who will point you in the right direction.

12. At approx. 9am all exhibitors will be asked to leave the hall or quietly take their seats for open bay judging. All stewards will go to their appropriate spots.

13. If you happen to be in the hall during judging,NEVER ask the judge how your cat is going or point your cat out to a judge. We are all anxious and will find out by looking at the result board in the foyer. In the case of bay style judging the judge will give their results as they go along.

14. At approximately 1.30 pm you will be allowed back into the hall to find out how well your cat did in the show. You can now feed your cat and attend to the toileting.

15. Now you can compare the other cats in your classes, have a look at all the other contestants, talk to other exhibitors and ask the judge who judged your cat any questions or queries you have regarding your cat. This is the exciting time when you receive your special ribbons, rosettes and/or trophies. You will always remember your first show and first prize.

16. At around 4.30 to 5pm the Show Manager will tell you it is time to pack up and go home, but first you are asked to fold your cage, clean up any rubbish you have around your cage and maybe carry your cage outside to the trailer for packing. Make sure you have not left anything behind.

These are just a few helpful hints for beginners and I hope will be of some assistance, as your first show can be very bewildering. Do not be afraid to ask any of the exhxibitors what to do as we all like to help newcomers and can also remember their first show.

Good Luck and have a Nice Day.