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What to Take to the Cat Show
We have filled up a whole car full of things to take to the cats shows for the cats, while struggling to find space for such things as our luggage! Here are some of the things we take to cat shows; you'll probably have some ideas of even more essential items.
Cage curtains - if you have never shown a cat before, this is something that just does not even occur to you. Because the cats spend the majority of their time at the cat show in an exhibition cage provided by the sponsoring club (included in your entry fee), you want them to be as comfortable as possible. The cages that are provided for each cat entered are generally a 2' x 2' x 2' cube which is actually one half of a full sized cage. If you are only showing one cat, we strongly recommend that you go ahead and pay for the extra half cage while entering the cat show. It is much easier to decorate a full cage than a half, plus you do not have someone else's cat (even though they may be very nice) sharing a cage with your cat. It is well worth the extra investment.
Because there will be lots of other cats at the show, you want to enclose your cage with "curtains". You can make these yourself or purchase ready-made ones at most cat shows. You can even improvise, if you don't want to invest in an expensive set of curtains right away, through creative draping of fabric (sheets) and towels. But remember, lots of spectators come to the shows to see the cats. You would like your cage area to be attractive as well as comfortable for the cat. The cage should be covered on three sides (front stays open so you can get the cat in and out) as well as the top. The cages sit on wood tables or trestles so the bottom (floor) also needs to be covered.
Sometimes, there will be themes to the cat shows. These could be to celebrate a holiday (e.g., Easter or Valentine's Day) or a general theme (e.g., spring). It is fun, but not required, to decorate your cage to coincide with the theme of the show. GCA/PR Pairodocs Sidekick is pictured below in his exhibition cage at the Concord, NC show decorated with the Halloween theme. In this case, these are really only special use cage decorations. In this picture, Sidekick is occupying what is known as a "double cage".
Litter boxes - You would think that this would be obvious, but I have made several late night runs to the grocery store to get... you guessed it! I recommend that you take 2 litterboxes: a larger one for use in the hotel room, plus a smaller one, color coordinated to your cage curtains :-), for the cat show. And, of course, you'll need litter. Most clubs offer complimentary cat litter at the shows, but is a good idea to have some with you.
Cat food - Bring their favorites. Cat shows are not the times to try new treats and risk gastric distress.
Cat toys - Take lots of these. Include feather teasers, little balls to play with in the cage, plus some of their favorites for the motel room. If your cats get overly excited about catnip, don't give it to them at the shows.
You want your kitty to be happy at the cat show.
Grooming supplies - These include your favorite combs and brushes, cotton tipped swabs, extra shampoo (especially if your cat gets car sick), eye drops in case of irritation during bathing, nail clippers (in case you forgot to clip those claws), and extra towels. Pack all of these together in a box or bag so they are easy to find.
Odds and Ends - Binder clips are very useful for securing the show cages. Sometimes the cages are old and using the clips will keep the middle divider back if you are using the whole cage. Paper towels and trash bags are very handy (especially if your cat gets car sick). Keep a supply within easy reach for the car trip.
Carriers and Such - Of course you need a secure way to transport your cat. Make sure the carrier is roomy enough for your cat to get comfortable and stretch out. There are a variety of nice carriers (hard and soft sided) on the market today. If your cat is heavy, you have more than one cat, or you are going to a show hall that is fairly large consider acquiring a wheeled luggage roller. You can put two carriers on there (secured with a bungee cord) and it is MUCH easier than lugging heavy carriers a long distance. I learned this the hard way after going to the big Madison Square Garden show with three cats and having to carry them a very, very long way to get to the show hall. My back was killing me! Don't make this mistake.
Don't forget yourself - As fun as cat shows are, there are often extended periods of waiting to be called up to the judging ring. The time passes by more quickly and pleasurably if you bring along some reading materials, cross stitch, homework, etc. I have been at shows where my magazine collection saved several exhibitors from dozing off. Especially with the Turkish Van, since the cats are judged in alphabetical order, you can usually count on being judged last in the long hair class. We have been at shows that started at 9:00 a.m. where we were called up for our first judging at 2:00 in the afternoon. This is the exception, of course, but our motto is to be prepared! We highly recommend taking some snacks with you as well. Some fruit, chips, cookies, candy, etc. can help supply much needed energy during the slow periods. Most show halls sell food, but lately we have been to a couple of shows where there was no food or drink available. Wear comfortable shoes!!! You may be on concrete floors for the weekend.
More about showing your Turkish Van:
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